Air Fryer Chimichangas: Perfect Timing For Crunchy Treats

Chimichangas are a popular Mexican dish that can be made at home in an air fryer. They are essentially fried burritos, usually with a filling of meat, cheese, vegetables and spices. The air fryer method is a healthier alternative to deep-frying, with less oil and calories, but still resulting in a crispy finish. The cooking time varies depending on the quantity and type of chimichanga, but on average, they take around 10-15 minutes to cook in the air fryer.

Air fryer temperature and time

The air fryer is a convenient and healthier alternative to deep frying, and it's especially useful for making chimichangas, which are essentially fried burritos. The air fryer will give your chimichangas a perfectly crispy exterior without the excess oil and mess of traditional frying.

The temperature and time you use for your air fryer chimichangas will depend on the quantity you are cooking, the specific model of your air fryer, and your personal preference for the crispiness of the exterior.

As a general rule, you should preheat your air fryer to a temperature between 360°F and 400°F. The cooking time will vary between 5 and 20 minutes, depending on the number of chimichangas you are cooking and the desired crispiness.

For example, one source recommends cooking two chimichangas at 400°F for 4 to 6 minutes, flipping them over, and then cooking for an additional 2 to 4 minutes. On the other hand, another source suggests cooking one chimichanga at 375°F for 15 minutes, adding an extra minute or two if you prefer a crispier exterior.

It's important to note that you should avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness. It's best to cook the chimichangas in batches if you are making more than two at a time. Additionally, spraying the chimichangas with cooking spray or oil before placing them in the air fryer will help to achieve a crispier texture.

Finally, remember to let the chimichangas cool down slightly before serving, especially if you are serving them to children.

Chimichanga fillings

Chimichangas are a popular Tex-Mex dish that is essentially a deep-fried burrito. They are usually filled with meat, cheese, vegetables, and spices, and then wrapped in a large flour tortilla. While traditionally deep-fried, chimichangas can also be made in an air fryer, oven, or pan-fried for a healthier alternative.

Meat Options:

• Chicken: Shredded chicken is a popular choice and can be easily made at home or purchased as a rotisserie chicken. Chicken thighs are preferred for their tenderness and juiciness, but chicken breasts or leftover chicken can also be used.
• Beef: Shredded beef, such as barbacoa, or ground beef are great options.
• Pork: Shredded pork, like carnitas, is another delicious choice.
• Turkey: Ground turkey is a good substitute for those who prefer it over beef.

Vegetarian Options:

• Beans: Refried beans are a classic filling for chimichangas and can be used as the main protein source or in combination with other ingredients. Black beans or homemade refried beans can also be used.
• Vegetables: Sautéed vegetables such as peppers, onions, zucchini, or rice can be added for texture and flavour.
• Vegetarian Protein Crumbles: For those who want a meat-like texture and taste without the actual meat, vegetarian protein crumbles are a great option.

Cheese Options:

• Shredded Mexican Blend: A classic blend of cheeses that pairs well with the other flavours in chimichangas.
• Monterey Jack: A mild and creamy cheese that melts well and complements the other ingredients.
• Cheddar: Sharp cheddar adds a bold flavour and melts nicely.
• Pepper Jack: For a spicy kick, pepper jack cheese is a tasty choice.
• Cream Cheese: This adds a creamy texture and mild flavour to the filling.

Other Ingredients:

• Salsa: Adds moisture and flavour to the filling. Can be store-bought or homemade.
• Spices: Cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and oregano are commonly used to season the filling.
• Sour Cream: Adds a creamy texture and tangy flavour. Can be mixed into the filling or used as a topping.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavour and a bit of colour.
• Avocado: Avocado slices or guacamole can be used as a topping or mixed into the filling for creaminess.
• Hot Sauce: Drizzle on some hot sauce for an extra kick of heat and flavour.

How to wrap chimichangas

Chimichangas are fried burritos, typically filled with rice, cheese, beans, and meat. They are usually deep-fried, but can also be cooked in an air fryer.

Step-by-Step Guide to Wrapping Chimichangas:

Step 1:

Place your chosen filling in the centre of the tortilla. It is important not to overfill the tortilla, as this can cause it to split or rip. A good amount of filling is about 1/4 to 3/4 cup of filling per tortilla.

Step 2:

Begin rolling the tortilla by pulling the sides over each end of the filling until tight. Then, use your thumbs to pull the bottom of the tortilla up and over the filling, covering the sides.

Step 3:

Tuck the bottom of the tortilla that you folded up in Step 2 into the burrito, along with the sides from the top and bottom.

Step 4:

Finish folding the tortilla over the remaining open end so that it covers the tucked sides and bottom. The chimichanga should now be securely wrapped and ready for cooking.

Tips for Wrapping Chimichangas:

• Practice makes perfect when it comes to wrapping burritos and chimichangas. It may take a few tries to get the technique down, but it's worth it for a perfectly wrapped chimichanga.
• It is important to use soft and pliable tortillas that are resistant to splitting. Bringing the tortillas to room temperature before wrapping can help with this.
• For chimichangas, it is recommended to use larger burrito-sized tortillas. This gives you more room to fill and wrap the tortilla securely without splitting.
• If you are making these ahead of time, it is best to wrap the chimichangas and then cook them right before serving for the best texture and taste.

How to reheat chimichangas

Chimichangas are a delicious, fried burrito that can be made at home in an air fryer. But what if you've already made a batch and want to enjoy them again? Reheating chimichangas is a great way to enjoy this Mexican dish without having to start from scratch. Here's a detailed guide on how to reheat chimichangas:

Using an Air Fryer

Place the chimichangas in the air fryer basket, leaving space between them to ensure even heating. Set the temperature to 350-375°F (180-190°C) and heat for 6-8 minutes. If you're reheating frozen chimichangas, wrap them in foil first and increase the cooking time to 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through. This will help prevent the outside from getting too crispy before the inside is heated through.

Using a Microwave

If you're short on time or don't have an air fryer, you can also reheat chimichangas in the microwave. Place one chimichanga on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 2 minutes. While this method is quick and convenient, it may result in a slightly softer texture and less crispy exterior.

Storing Chimichangas

It's important to store chimichangas properly to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. You can keep them in an airtight container or wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them for up to 3 months.

Tips for the Best Results

• For a crispier texture, brush the chimichangas with a small amount of oil before reheating.
• If you're reheating multiple chimichangas, work in batches to ensure even heating.
• If you're serving chimichangas to children, be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces and let them cool slightly before serving.
• To enhance the flavor, serve chimichangas with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or hot sauce.

By following these simple steps, you can enjoy delicious, crispy chimichangas anytime without having to start from scratch. Reheating chimichangas is a convenient way to have a quick and tasty meal ready in no time!

What to serve with chimichangas

Chimichangas are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to enhance their flavour and make the meal more enjoyable. Here are some ideas for what to serve with chimichangas:

Mexican Rice

Also known as Spanish rice or arroz rojo in native Mexico, this dish is a classic side to tacos or burritos. It is made with rice and tomatoes as the primary ingredients and can be stuffed inside Mexican breakfast burritos. It is a perfect complement to chimichangas, providing a hearty and fluffy texture with a hint of spice.

Guacamole

Guacamole is a versatile dish that can act as a dip, a salad, or a spread. It is made from avocados, which are high in protein and healthy fats, and can be customised with additional spices to suit your taste. It is a refreshing and healthy option to balance out the fried aspect of chimichangas.

Salsa

Salsa is an essential part of Mexican cuisine and can be made with fresh or canned tomatoes, or a combination of both for added flavour. It provides a tangy and spicy kick to your meal and pairs perfectly with the fried nature of chimichangas. You can also add mangoes to your salsa for a touch of sweetness and a pop of colour.

Beans

Beans are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and you can choose from a variety of options such as refried beans, borracho beans, or black beans. Refried beans, or frijoles refritos in Spanish, are a traditional dish where the beans are boiled, mashed, and fried in lard, resulting in a creamy texture. Black beans can be seasoned with cayenne, cilantro, and salt for a hearty and flavorful side.

Corn

Corn is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various Mexican side dishes. You can serve it as elote (grilled corn) coated in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder, or as a corn salad (elote salad) with added beans, cheese, and spices. For a more indulgent option, try Mexican corn cakes or corn pudding for a sweet and moist treat.

Other Options

There are also several other options to consider, such as Mexican coleslaw, Mexican street zucchini, Mexican potato salad, or Mexican chicken wings. You can even make a chicken tortilla soup or a Mexican vegetable and bean soup to accompany your chimichangas. Don't be afraid to experiment with different flavours and ingredients to create a feast that suits your taste!

Frequently asked questions