Step 1: Prepare the Filling
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic and Spices: Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Mix Filling: Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn kernels to the skillet. Pour in 1/2 cup of the enchilada sauce and stir to combine. Cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Enchiladas
- Fill Tortillas: Lay a tortilla flat and spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of the chicken filling down the center. Sprinkle a little shredded cheese on top of the filling.
- Roll Tortillas: Roll up the tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the air fryer basket. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 3: Air Fry the Enchiladas
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Arrange Enchiladas: Place the rolled enchiladas in the air fryer basket in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry: Air fry the enchiladas for 5-7 minutes until they start to crisp up.
Step 4: Add Sauce and Cheese
- Add Sauce: Carefully remove the enchiladas from the air fryer. Pour the remaining 1/2 cup of enchilada sauce over the top of the enchiladas.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the sauced enchiladas.
Step 5: Final Air Fry
- Melt Cheese: Return the enchiladas to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish: Transfer the enchiladas to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, sliced green onions, sour cream, sliced avocado or guacamole, and lime wedges.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the enchiladas hot with your favorite sides like rice and beans, a fresh salad, or extra salsa.
Tips for Perfect Enchiladas
- Tortilla Choice: Corn tortillas are traditional for enchiladas, but flour tortillas work well too. Warm the tortillas slightly before filling to make them more pliable.
- Filling Variations: Experiment with different fillings such as ground beef, shredded pork, or a vegetarian option with sautéed vegetables and beans.
- Sauce: Use your favorite store-bought enchilada sauce or make a homemade version for extra flavor.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Enchiladas: Skip the meat and add more beans, sautéed vegetables, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spicy Enchiladas: Add diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling for an extra kick.
- Creamy Enchiladas: Mix some cream cheese or sour cream into the filling for a creamier texture.
Serving Suggestions
- With Rice: Serve the enchiladas with a side of Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice.
- With Beans: Pair with refried beans, black beans, or pinto beans.
- Fresh Salad: A fresh salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado complements the enchiladas well.
Why This Recipe Works
Using the air fryer to cook the enchiladas ensures they come out crispy on the outside while the filling remains juicy and flavorful. The air fryer also melts the cheese perfectly, giving you a gooey and satisfying finish. This method is quicker than traditional baking and delivers consistent results.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Air Fryer Enchiladas are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic Mexican dish with less hassle and more flavor. The combination of crispy tortillas, savory filling, and melty cheese is irresistible. Whether you’re making dinner for your family or hosting a gathering, these enchiladas are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the ease and deliciousness of this air fryer recipe!