Chimichangas are a delicious Mexican recipe that incorporates a burrito and deep frying making it a huge favorite.
But if you want a healthier and easier version of this quintessential dish, cooking frozen chimichangas in an air fryer is all you need.
In this guide, we will be looking at different things you need to know concerning the preparation of frozen
chimichangas in an air fryer together with common techniques on how to make it crispy.
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What is a Chimichanga?
Now before going any deeper in the process of cooking let us define what exactly a chimichanga is. A chimichanga is a form of preparing a burrito since it is deep-fried. I
t mainly comprises a tortilla of flour which is first folded with different accompanying food items like meat, beans, cheese, or spices:
the whole rolled container is thereafter deep-fried to reach a rich golden-brown color.
Normally, chimichangas are fried which makes this technique to be very effective in using a small amount of oil while ensuring that the chimichangas get a crisp outer layer.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Unfortunately, air fryers have become trendy since they can cook food for the shortest time and give it a crispy outside without lot of oil.
Here are some reasons why using an air fryer for frozen chimichangas is beneficial:
• Healthier Option:
Air frying incorporates a hot airstream to cook the food, which implies that you can fry your chimichangas while using less oil than the usual techniques.
• Convenience:
It’s not hard to prepare frozen foods using an air fryer Here they are. A tasty meal doesn’t take longer than fifteen minutes to prepare.
• Versatility:
Air fryers are versatile and can prepare different foods and is best suited to be placed in any kitchen space.
Preparing Frozen Chimichangas
Essential Ingredients As for the frozen chimichangas it is and you can find different varieties in the stores where you are.
Here are some common options:
• Chicken and Cheese
• Beef and Bean
• Cheese Only
• Vegetarian Options
All the common brands such as El Monterey or Jose Ole make these varieties; therefore, you can select your desired one.
Cooking Instructions
Here’s how to cook frozen chimichangas in an air fryer:
• Preheat Your Air Fryer:
For this recipe, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and it takes about 3-5 minutes to preheat. This step makes the cooking of food uniform.
• Prepare the Chimichangas:
Heat the Chimichangas from frozen while still in its packaging. There is no necessity to defrost them prior to cooking, they will fit any dish.
• Arrange in the Air Fryer:
Put the chimichangas in a single layer in the basket being very careful not to overfill it. Ensure they are not in contact with each other to allow adequate ventilation.
• Cooking Time:
Bake the chimichangas in the oven at 375°F for about 8-10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking process, turn these pieces over to allow them to brown on both sides.
• Check for Doneness:
After 8 to 10 min, they appear golden brown and crispy in color. If not, post the 7 minutes and allow the fries to crisp up for another 2-3 minutes to your desired tenderness or crispness.
• Serve and Enjoy:
Post cooking you may need to transfer these chimichangas from the air fryer; this you do using tongs or spatula.
It is best served warm but allow it to cool a little before you add toppings such as sour cream, guacamole or salsa.
How to Get the Chimichangas Just Right
To ensure your frozen chimichangas come out perfectly every time, consider these tips:
• Do Not Overcrowd:
This is because if all the chimichangas are put together in the basket they will not cook well.
• Lightly Oil for Extra Crispiness:
To make the exterior even crispier, one should lightly oil, the chimichangas before cooking them.
• Monitor Cooking Time:
Even different air fryers can give different temperatures and varying effectiveness so watch the food as it cooks to ensure it does not burn or become overcooked.
Serving Suggestions
Chimichangas are delicious on their own but can be enhanced with various toppings and sides:
Toppings:
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Shredded Lettuce
• Chopped cilantro
• Jalapeños
Sides
• Mexican rice
• Refried beans
• Corn salad
Key Takeaways
• Air frying frozen chimichangas is shorter in preparation time compared to deep frying and is healthier for the body.
• You should first preheat your air fryer and do not overcrowd your basket for the best results.
• Try out something in addition to the toppings and sides, and turn up your meal.
FAQ Section
Can I cook fresh chimichangas using an air fryer?
Yes! It is also possible to cook brand new, perfectly homemade chimichangas using an air fryer and the same procedures.
For how many minutes should I bake the chimichangas if I’ve frozen them?
Frozen chimichangas usually require approximately 8-10 minutes of cooking at 375 frozen chimichangas under air fryer conditions.
Are chimichangas supposed to be thawed before they are cooked?
You don’t need to thaw them before cooking, you can cook them as they are, frozen.
What are the recommended frozen chimichangas in the market?
Some of the brands that are well-known include El Monterey and Jose Ole; each comes in different types.
Can I use my own filling for homemade chimichangas?
Absolutely! Before folding them in tortillas, there is always the opportunity to add any other ingredient of your choice to the filling.
Conclusion
Using an air fryer is an excellent way to defrost and cook chimichangas; it also lets you have a much healthier dinner without compromising either taste or crunchy texture.
While baking cookies you can get that appealing brown texture on the outside yet the inside remains warm and tasty, all this depends on the techniques and tips applied.