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These air fryer southwest chicken burritos transform ordinary ingredients into a mouthwatering meal that brings together creamy textures and bold flavors in every bite. The crispy exterior gives way to a warm, cheesy filling that makes these burritos irresistible for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining.
I first made these burritos when trying to impress my neighbor who loves southwestern cuisine. Now they've become our Friday night tradition, with everyone gathering around the table eager to dive in as soon as they emerge golden and crispy from the air fryer.
Ingredients
- Shredded rotisserie chicken: Provides convenience and rich flavor without the work of cooking chicken from scratch
- Cream cheese: Creates a luxurious creamy base that binds everything together
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Adds that essential melty texture and bold flavor
- Black beans: Offer protein and fiber to make these burritos more substantial
- Sweet corn: Brings natural sweetness and pleasant texture contrast
- Diced tomatoes: Add juicy freshness throughout each bite
- Taco seasoning: Infuses everything with classic southwestern spice profile
- Fresh pico de gallo: Introduces bright acidity and fresh elements
- Burrito size flour tortillas: Provide the perfect wrapper that crisps beautifully
- Cooking spray: Ensures even browning without excessive oil
How To Make Air Fryer Southwest Chicken Burritos
- Prepare the filling:
- Combine all filling ingredients in a large bowl until thoroughly mixed. The cream cheese should incorporate completely with no white streaks remaining. Take time to fold gently rather than stirring aggressively which can break down the ingredients too much.
- Wrap the burritos:
- Place exactly 1 cup of filling in the center of each tortilla. Too much will cause bursting while too little creates sad burritos. Fold the sides in first then roll from bottom to top maintaining tension throughout for a tight seal. Press gently to secure the edge.
- Air fry to perfection:
- Spray each burrito generously with cooking spray before placing seam side down in the preheated air fryer. Cook for precisely 5 minutes then flip carefully using tongs. Spray the second side and cook 5 more minutes until the exterior becomes golden brown and crispy while the interior remains molten and hot.
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The cream cheese is truly the secret hero of this recipe. I discovered its magical binding properties by accident when running low on regular cheese one evening. The resulting creamy texture was so beloved by my family that it became a permanent fixture in our burrito rotation.
Make Ahead Instructions
These burritos excel as make ahead meals. Prepare the filling and assemble the burritos up to two days in advance. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy, remove the plastic wrap, spray with cooking oil, and air fry for an additional 1–2 minutes beyond the regular cooking time to ensure they heat through properly.
Ingredient Substitutions
The beauty of these burritos lies in their flexibility. Swap rotisserie chicken for cooked ground beef, turkey, or plant-based meat alternatives for different flavor profiles. Dairy-free cream cheese works wonderfully for those avoiding dairy products. Black beans can be exchanged for pinto or refried beans based on preference. For a spicier kick, incorporate diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers into the filling mixture.
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Serving Suggestions
Create a southwestern feast by serving these burritos alongside Spanish rice and a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette. For entertaining, set up a burrito bar with the air fried burritos as the centerpiece surrounded by bowls of additional toppings like guacamole, sliced jalapeños, shredded lettuce, diced onions, and various hot sauces. This interactive approach always delights guests and allows everyone to customize their plate.
Freezing Instructions
These burritos freeze exceptionally well, making them perfect for meal prep. After assembling but before air frying, wrap each burrito tightly in aluminum foil and place in a freezer safe bag. Freeze for up to three months. To cook from frozen, remove foil and place in the air fryer at 350°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through until heated completely through the center.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use leftover chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, leftover chicken works perfectly as a substitute. Just shred it finely for the filling.
- → What if I don't have an air fryer?
You can bake the burritos in an oven at 400°F for 10-15 minutes, turning halfway to achieve a crispy shell.
- → Can I customize the filling ingredients?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute or add ingredients like jalapeños, bell peppers, or even cooked rice for variety.
- → How do I prevent the burritos from unraveling during cooking?
Be sure to tightly roll the burritos and tuck in the sides securely before placing them in the air fryer.
- → How should I store leftover burritos?
Wrap leftover burritos in foil or plastic wrap, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven for best results.