Description
Air Fryer Chimichangas are a delicious and healthier twist on the classic Mexican fried burrito. This recipe features tender shredded meat, warm refried beans, and melted cheddar cheese rolled into flour tortillas and crisped to perfection in the air fryer for a crunchy, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Filling
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken, beef, or pork
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion or yellow onion
- 1 (5 ounce) can diced green chiles
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (16 ounce) can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Wraps
- 8 large flour tortillas, burrito size
- Oil for frying (for spritzing or basting)
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded cooked meat, diced green chiles, finely chopped onion, ground cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly until well combined.
- Warm the Tortillas: Wrap the large flour tortillas in a clean towel and microwave them for 30 to 45 seconds to make them pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
- Assemble the Chimichangas: Place about 1/2 cup of the meat mixture, 2 tablespoons of refried beans, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese onto the center of each warmed tortilla. Fold in the sides and tightly roll the tortilla around the filling, placing each chimichanga seam-side down on a baking sheet. Use toothpicks to secure if necessary.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to preheat fully to ensure even cooking.
- Air Fry the Chimichangas: Lightly spritz or baste each chimichanga with cooking oil to help achieve a crispy exterior. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Air fry for 8 minutes, flipping halfway through to brown all sides evenly.
- Cool and Serve: Carefully remove the chimichangas from the air fryer and let them cool for 1 to 2 minutes before serving. Enjoy while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute the meat with a vegetarian filling for a meatless option, such as seasoned roasted vegetables or tofu.
- If you prefer extra crispy chimichangas, lightly brush the tortillas with oil before rolling instead of spritzing after.
- Use toothpicks to keep chimichangas sealed during cooking to prevent unrolling.
- Work in batches when air frying to avoid overcrowding and ensure even cooking.
- Serve with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or your favorite dipping sauces for added flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chimichanga
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
