Chimichanga with Red Chile Sauce
A chimichanga is a deep-fried burrito, typically filled with ingredients like shredded beef, chicken, or pork, along with rice, beans, and cheese, all wrapped in a flour tortilla. It is generously smothered in a rich, earthy red chile sauce made from dried red chiles, tomatoes, and spices. This dish is a beloved staple of Tex-Mex and Southwestern American cuisine.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Due to the deep-frying and rich fillings, a chimichanga with red chile sauce is high in both carbohydrates and fat, with a moderate to high protein content from the meat and beans. It provides significant calories, with a typical serving ranging from 800 to 1,200 calories, along with key nutrients like iron, B vitamins, and fiber.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 55 g |
| Fat | 35 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 1200 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Calcium | 150 mg |
| Potassium | 400 mg |
| Vitamin A | 800 IU |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.4 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5 mg |
| Folate | 100 mcg |
Per 1 chimichanga with sauce (approximately 300 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The chimichanga is a fascinating example of culinary fusion, believed to have been invented by accident in the American Southwest. Nutritionally, the red chile sauce often contains capsaicin, which can boost metabolism and provide antioxidants, adding a functional benefit to this indulgent dish.
