Calorie Breakdown for a Chimichanga Dinner at Plaza Azteca
The exact calorie count for a chimichanga dinner at Plaza Azteca can change due to menu variations. However, available menus offer a clear range. For instance, a single chimichanga (lunch portion) with shredded beef or chicken, topped with sour cream and cheese sauce, served with rice and beans, is listed at 720 calories. In contrast, a different menu shows a Chimichangas Dinner (two fried or soft flour tortillas with shredded beef or chicken) as 700 calories. The Texanas version, with two chimichangas with fajita steak or chicken, lists 1190 calories, showing how protein choice alters the total. The total caloric intake depends on both the chimichanga and its side dishes, usually Mexican rice and refried beans.
The Chimichanga Itself: Filling, Frying, and Toppings
A chimichanga is a deep-fried burrito, and deep-frying adds to the high-calorie content. The ingredients inside the tortilla also dictate the nutritional profile. At Plaza Azteca, a standard chimichanga can be filled with shredded chicken or shredded beef. Different meats and preparations, like the fajita-style meats in the Texanas chimichangas, have different calorie counts. The toppings, including cheese sauce, sour cream, and guacamole, increase the total.
Standard Side Dishes: Rice and Beans
Most chimichanga dinners at Plaza Azteca come with Mexican rice and refried beans, which add calories. Rice cooked with oil and seasonings and beans cooked with added fat (like lard) can contribute several hundred calories to the meal. Understanding these components can help with dietary choices, such as requesting substitutions or leaving some sides to reduce the total.
Comparison of Chimichanga Meal Calories
Comparing the Plaza Azteca figures with other restaurant or generic versions of a chimichanga illustrates how cooking method and portion size affect the calorie count.
| Meal Item | Estimated Calories | Key Differentiators |
|---|---|---|
| Plaza Azteca Chimichanga Dinner (with rice & beans, 1 chimichanga) | ~720 kcal | Standard portion, often with shredded chicken or beef. |
| Plaza Azteca Chimichangas Texanas (with rice & beans, 2 chimichangas) | ~1190 kcal | Larger portion, includes fajita steak or chicken, potentially more toppings. |
| Tijuana Flats Chimichanga (generic nutrition) | ~895 kcal | A specific menu item from a competitor, showcasing variation. |
| Generic Deep-Fried Beef Chimichanga | ~742 kcal | Reflects a typical large-size beef chimichanga, without additional sides. |
| Homemade Baked Chimichanga | ~500-600 kcal | Made with less oil, lower-fat fillings, and controlled portions. |
Tips for Healthier Chimichanga Dining
While a deep-fried chimichanga can be a treat, there are ways to manage the calorie count at Plaza Azteca or any Mexican restaurant.
- Choose the soft option: Some menus offer a 'soft' chimichanga, which is a burrito. This removes the deep-frying, cutting fat calories.
- Request no cheese sauce or sour cream: These toppings can be high in calories and fat. Asking for them on the side or removing them can make a big difference.
- Select lighter toppings: Replace cheese sauce and sour cream with pico de gallo, salsa, or extra lettuce and tomatoes.
- Change your sides: If possible, ask to swap rice and beans for a side salad, steamed vegetables, or grilled options.
- Control portion size: A chimichanga is filling. Consider saving half for another meal.
Conclusion
The standard chimichanga dinner from Plaza Azteca with shredded chicken or beef typically has around 700 to 720 calories, including rice and beans. Larger versions, like the Chimichangas Texanas, can have over 1000 calories. The calorie count depends on the protein, whether it's fried, and toppings such as cheese sauce and sour cream. By understanding these factors, you can make informed choices to enjoy your meal while watching your diet.
For more nutritional information and menu specifics, visit the official Plaza Azteca website or ask the staff at your local restaurant. An example menu PDF is available here: Plaza Azteca Menu.
