Air-Fryer Chimichangas: A Healthy Frying Option?

Yes, you can make chimichangas in an air fryer! This method is healthier than deep-frying, as it uses less oil, and it's also quicker and easier to clean up. Chimichangas are typically deep-fried burritos, filled with rice, beans, cheese, and meat. However, you can fill them with whatever you like. To make chimichangas in an air fryer, prepare your filling, roll the tortillas, and then cook them in the air fryer for around 10 minutes.

Air fryer chimichangas vs. deep-fried chimichangas

Chimichangas are a popular Tex-Mex dish, essentially a deep-fried burrito. They are usually made by filling a tortilla with meat, cheese, vegetables, and spices, and then deep-frying it. However, with the advent of air fryers, people have started to make chimichangas in air fryers instead of deep-frying them. But which method is better? Let's compare the two.

Taste and Texture

Deep-fried chimichangas have a crispy, golden-brown exterior and a soft, melted interior. Air fryer chimichangas can achieve a similar level of crispiness and browning without the extra calories from the oil used in deep-frying. In addition, air fryer chimichangas are just as tasty as their deep-fried counterparts, with the same delicious combination of flavours and textures.

Ease of Preparation

Deep-frying chimichangas can be messy, expensive, and even a little dangerous due to the large amount of hot oil involved. Air frying, on the other hand, is much easier, quicker, and less messy. You simply need to assemble your chimichangas, place them in the air fryer basket, and cook them for a few minutes until they're crispy and browned. There's no need to deal with large pots of hot oil, making it a safer and more convenient option.

Customisation

Both methods allow for customisation of the filling. You can use different types of meat, such as chicken, ground beef, pork, or turkey, or even make a vegetarian version with taco-seasoned roasted vegetables. You can also add various vegetables, spices, and cheeses to suit your taste.

Storage and Reheating

Deep-fried chimichangas are best served fresh, as they can become soggy when stored. Air fryer chimichangas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for a few months. When reheating, it's best to use the air fryer or oven to retain crispness, although the microwave is also an option if you don't mind losing some of the crunch.

Both deep-fried and air fryer chimichangas have their pros and cons. Deep-fried chimichangas offer the classic taste and texture, but air fryer chimichangas provide a healthier, easier, and less messy alternative without sacrificing flavour or crispness. Ultimately, it's a matter of personal preference, and you may want to try both methods to decide which one you prefer!

How to assemble chimichangas

Assembling chimichangas is not a difficult task, but it does require some attention to detail. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to assemble chimichangas:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

Firstly, prepare your desired filling. This can include cooked and shredded meat, such as chicken or beef, as well as refried beans, salsa, cheese, spices, and other ingredients of your choice. Combine all the filling ingredients in a mixing bowl and mix well. You can adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

Step 2: Lay Out the Tortillas

Take a soft, burrito-sized flour tortilla and lay it out flat on your work surface. You want to ensure that the tortilla is soft and pliable to make it easier to fold without tearing. If your tortilla is too stiff, you can heat it up slightly to make it more pliable.

Step 3: Spoon the Filling

Take about 1/2 to 1 1/3 cups of your prepared filling and spoon it onto the tortilla. Place the filling about 2 inches from the edge of the tortilla and form it into a rectangle or cylinder shape, leaving enough space on the sides to be able to fold the tortilla over.

Step 4: Add Cheese (Optional)

If you're a cheese lover, now is the time to add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top of the filling. This step is optional but will surely take your chimichanga up a notch!

Step 5: Start Folding

Once you have your filling and optional cheese in place, it's time to start folding your tortilla. First, fold the bottom third of the tortilla up and over the filling. Then, fold in the left and right sides, tucking them securely. Finally, continue rolling the tortilla from the bottom up until you have a tight cylinder. Make sure the seam is facing down to prevent it from unfolding.

Step 6: Secure with Toothpicks (Optional)

If you're worried about your chimichanga unraveling, you can use a couple of wooden toothpicks to secure the ends. This step is optional, but it can give you some peace of mind, especially if you plan on frying or air-frying your chimichangas.

Step 7: Repeat for More Chimichangas

Repeat the above steps for as many chimichangas as you want to make. Remember, it's important not to overfill your tortillas, as this can lead to tearing or leakage. It's better to make several smaller chimichangas than to overload a single one.

Assembling chimichangas is a fun and satisfying process, and the best part is that you can get creative with your fillings and make them your own!

Air fryer temperature and cooking time

For smaller chimichangas, set the timer for 10 minutes; larger chimichangas may require up to 15 minutes. Check your chimichangas regularly to ensure they don't overcook, and adjust the temperature and timer as needed. The chimichangas are done when they are golden brown and crispy.

If you are cooking frozen chimichangas, there is no need to thaw them first. Simply increase the cooking time to 15-20 minutes, and flip them halfway through.

Filling options

Chimichangas are a popular Tex-Mex dish, a type of deep-fried burrito. They are usually filled with meat, cheese, vegetables and spices, but the filling can be customised to your taste. Here are some ideas for fillings you can try:

Meat

Chimichangas are often made with shredded chicken, but you can use other types of meat, such as ground turkey, ground beef, pork or turkey. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives.

Beans

Refried beans are a popular choice for chimichangas, but you can also use black beans or even just beans and cheese with no meat.

Vegetables

Onions, garlic, peppers and tomatoes are commonly used in chimichanga fillings. You can also add spices such as chilli powder, cumin, salt, cinnamon and garlic powder for extra flavour. If you want to add some heat, include some green chillies or jalapeños.

Cheese

Shredded Mexican cheese, Monterey Jack cheese, pepper Jack cheese and cheddar cheese are all good options for chimichangas. You can also use plant-based cheese alternatives.

Other Ingredients

Other ingredients you can add to your chimichanga filling include sour cream, avocado, salsa and enchilada sauce. You can also serve your chimichangas with a variety of toppings and sides, such as lettuce, guacamole, Spanish rice or black beans.

Storage and reheating

Air fryer chimichangas can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic or foil for up to 4 days. To retain their crispiness, it is better to reheat them in the air fryer or oven instead of the microwave. Reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes or until heated through.

You can also freeze air fryer chimichangas for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in foil and air fry straight from frozen at 360°F for 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Frequently asked questions