Carnitas Chimichangas: Crispy, Flavorful, & Delicious

Carnitas ChimichangasPhoto byFood Fusion Frenzy

Carnitas Chimichangas are a delightful twist on the traditional chimichanga, featuring tender, flavorful pork carnitas wrapped in a tortilla and fried to crispy perfection.

Get the Recipe Details: Carnitas Chimichangas

Ingredients

• For the Carnitas:
• • 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic, smashed
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1/2 cup lime juice
  • 1 cup chicken broth
• For the Chimichangas:
• • 6 large flour tortillas
  • 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
  • 1 cup refried beans (optional)
  • Vegetable oil (for frying)
  • Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Carnitas:
2. • In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the pork shoulder chunks and sear on all sides until browned about 8-10 minutes.
   • Add the quartered onion, smashed garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
   • Pour in the orange juice, lime juice, and chicken broth.
   • Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shreddable.
   • Once cooked, remove the pork from the pot and shred it using two forks. Discard any large pieces of fat.
3. Assemble the Chimichangas:
4. • Lay a flour tortilla on a flat surface.
   • Spread a layer of refried beans in the center of the tortilla, if using.
   • Add a layer of cooked rice on top of the beans, if using.
   • Place a generous amount of shredded carnitas over the rice and beans.
   • Sprinkle shredded cheese over the carnitas.
   • Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly to enclose the filling.
5. Fry the Chimichangas:
6. • Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chimichangas seam-side down in the skillet.
   • Fry until golden brown and crispy on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side.
   • Remove the chimichangas from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
7. Serve:
8. • Serve the chimichangas hot, topped with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, and lime wedges.
   • Enjoy your Carnitas Chimichangas with your favorite Mexican-inspired sides for a delicious and satisfying meal!

Conclusion

Carnitas Chimichangas are a fantastic way to enjoy the rich, savory flavors of pork carnitas in a crispy, golden-brown tortilla. These chimichangas are perfect for any meal and can be customized with your favorite fillings and toppings. Whether you're serving them for a family dinner or a festive gathering, Carnitas Chimichangas are sure to be a hit!