Air Fryer Chimichangas

Why Make This Recipe

Air Fryer Chimichangas are a delicious and healthier twist on a classic dish. Using an air fryer cuts down the oil needed for frying, making them crispy without the extra calories. They are easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party snack.

How to Make Air Fryer Chimichanga

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp. chili powder
• 1 tsp. ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 3/4 c. salsa
• 4 c. shredded cooked chicken
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 1 (15-oz.) can refried beans
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 1 c. shredded cheddar
• 1 c. shredded pepper jack
• 1/2 c. sour cream, plus more for serving
• Olive oil cooking spray
• Hot sauce and guacamole, for serving

Directions:

1. In a medium skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the salsa and bring it to a simmer. Then, add the cooked chicken and toss to coat. Season with salt and black pepper. Remove the mixture from heat.
5. Spread about 1/4 cup of the refried beans in the center of each tortilla.
6. Sprinkle both cheeses over the beans, then top with about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture and some sour cream.
7. Roll the tortilla into a burrito by folding the top and bottom into the center, then folding the right side over the filling and rolling tightly to seal. Place each burrito seam side down on a plate.
8. In batches, place the burritos seam side down in the air fryer basket and spray them with cooking spray.
9. Cook at 400°F for 5 minutes. Turn them over, spray again with cooking spray, and cook for another 5 minutes.
10. Serve the chimichangas on plates. Drizzle with hot sauce and sour cream, and serve with guacamole on the side.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chimichanga

Serve the chimichangas hot from the air fryer. They pair nicely with a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of hot sauce, and a side of guacamole. You can also enjoy them with a fresh salad or some Mexican rice for a complete meal.

How to Store Air Fryer Chimichanga

If you have leftovers, let them cool to room temperature and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer or a conventional oven until heated through and crispy again.

Tips to Make Air Fryer Chimichanga

• Make sure not to overfill the tortillas, as this can make rolling them difficult and cause them to break.
• To add extra flavor, consider adding some spices like paprika or oregano to the filling.
• For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken for a mix of veggies or beans.

Variation

You can experiment by using different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack or queso fresco. If you like a spicy kick, add fresh jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling.

FAQs

1. Can I use other proteins?
   Yes, you can replace the chicken with beef, pork, or even tofu for a meatless option.

2. Are these chimichangas gluten-free?
   To make gluten-free chimichangas, use gluten-free tortillas.

3. Can I freeze chimichangas?
   Yes, you can freeze them before cooking. Just wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap, place in a freezer bag, and store for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.