Air Fryer Chimichangas
Crispy, flavorful, and easy to make, these air fryer chimichangas are the perfect addition to your dinner menu. Bring the authentic taste of a Mexican-American classic right to your kitchen!
Treat yourself to the irresistible taste of chimichangas! Air fryer chimichangas provide an alternative to the traditional deep-fried version, while still delivering a satisfying crunch and flavorful filling. You’ll love the combination of tender meat, savory refried beans, and gooey cheese wrapped in a crispy tortilla. This recipe is versatile and perfect for both casual family dinners and festive gatherings, offering a customizable, delightful experience everyone will enjoy.
Chimichangas: A Brief History
Chimichangas, a deep-fried burrito, are thought to have originated in the southwestern United States, heavily influenced by Mexican cuisine. The dish’s history is often attributed to either Arizona or Texas, where Mexican-American culinary traditions blend and create unique flavors. Chimichangas are now a popular dish in Mexican-American restaurants and have become a beloved comfort food for many.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely. Replace the cheddar cheese with a plant-based cheese alternative or omit the cheese entirely.
Corn tortillas can be used, but they may be more prone to cracking. To avoid this, warm the corn tortillas before filling and rolling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your air fryer chimichangas with a side of Spanish rice, black beans, or a fresh salad. Top with guacamole, sour cream, or your favorite salsa for added flavor and texture.
Tips for Success
- Make sure to warm the tortillas before filling and rolling to prevent cracking.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas, as this can cause them to burst open during cooking.
- Use a toothpick to secure the tortilla if it’s having trouble staying rolled.
Air Fryer Chimichangas
- 2 cups shredded chicken beef, or pork
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 1 5-ounce can diced green chiles, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 16-ounce can refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 8 flour tortillas
- Oil for frying
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In a large bowl, combine the cooked meat, green chiles, diced onion, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a towel and microwaving for 30-45 seconds.
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Spoon about 1/2 cup of the meat mixture, 2 tablespoons of refried beans, and a sprinkle of cheese onto each tortilla. Tightly roll up the tortilla and place it fold-side down on a baking sheet. Use a toothpick if necessary to keep it from unrolling.
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Preheat the air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
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Lightly spritz or baste the chimichangas with cooking oil. Air fry for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through if needed. Work in batches if necessary.
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Let the chimichangas cool for 1-2 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Nutrition
