Beef Chimichanga
A chimichanga is a deep-fried burrito, typically filled with seasoned beef, cheese, and beans, then sealed and fried until golden and crispy. It's a popular Tex-Mex dish, often served with toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. While its exact origins are debated, it's widely associated with the Southwestern United States and Mexican-American cuisine.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Due to the deep-frying process and generous fillings, a beef chimichanga is generally high in fat and calories, with a significant amount of protein from the beef and a notable carb content from the flour tortilla. A typical restaurant serving can range from 800 to over 1,200 calories, providing iron and B vitamins from the beef, but is often high in sodium and saturated fat.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 750 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbs | 55 g |
| Fat | 42 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 1200 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Calcium | 250 mg |
| Potassium | 450 mg |
| Vitamin A | 120 mcg RAE |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg |
| Zinc | 6 mg |
| Phosphorus | 300 mg |
Per 1 chimichanga (approx. 250 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The chimichanga is a fascinating example of culinary adaptation, likely invented in Arizona as a way to repurpose a burrito. Its name is a playful, anglicized twist on the Spanish word 'chimichanga,' which itself is thought to be a euphemistic substitute for a stronger word, adding a layer of folk humor to its hearty, indulgent appeal.
