Air Fryer Chimichangas
Air fryer chimichangas are a healthier twist on the classic deep-fried dish. With a crispy, golden exterior and a savory filling of seasoned meat, beans, cheese, and spices, these chimichangas are both easy to make and full of flavor. Using an air fryer instead of deep frying helps cut down on the oil and calories while still delivering a satisfying crunch. These chimichangas can be customized with different fillings to suit any taste, making them a versatile option for dinner or snacks.
Equipment
- 1 Air fryer (medium-sized, 3-5 qt)
- 1 Skillet or frying pan (for cooking filling)
- 1 Spatula (for stirring filling)
- 1 Brush (for oil or cooking spray)
- 1 Airtight container (for storing leftovers)
Ingredients
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 lb ground beef or chicken or any preferred protein
- 1 cup refried beans
- 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing
- Optional: salsa sour cream, guacamole (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef or chicken with diced onion and garlic until the meat is browned and the onions are softened. Stir in the taco seasoning and refried beans. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, ensuring everything is well mixed and heated through.
- Assemble the chimichangas: Lay the tortillas flat on a clean surface. Spoon about 1/4 of the prepared filling in the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with shredded cheese, then carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes.
- Cook the chimichangas: Lightly brush the chimichangas with olive oil or spray them with cooking spray. Place them seam-side down in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Serve: Let the chimichangas cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with your favorite toppings like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Notes
- You can use a variety of proteins for the filling, such as shredded chicken, beef, or even vegetarian options like beans and veggies.
- Make sure to seal the chimichangas tightly to avoid spilling the filling during cooking.
- For extra crunch, lightly spray or brush the chimichangas with olive oil before cooking.
- Air fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the basket and ensure even cooking.