Air Fryer Southwest Chicken Burritos

These Air Fryer Southwest Chicken Burritos bring together tender shredded chicken, creamy cheese, and fresh veggies for a satisfying meal that comes together quickly. The air fryer crisps the tortillas perfectly without extra grease, making this a healthier option that still delivers big on flavor. Whether for a busy weeknight or a casual get-together, these burritos hit the spot every time.

I first tried these during a busy week and was amazed by how fast and delicious they turned out. Now my whole family asks for them whenever we want an easy, tasty meal.

Ingredients

• Shredded rotisserie chicken: tender and flavorful, saves cooking time
• Cream cheese at room temperature: adds creamy richness that binds the filling smoothly
• Sharp cheddar cheese shredded: provides cheesy sharpness and melt
• Black beans drained and rinsed: add protein and texture
• Sweet corn drained: brings a touch of sweetness and crunch
• Diced tomatoes drained: moisture and fresh acidity balance the filling
• Taco seasoning: packed with warm spices to give the burritos their signature Southwest taste
• Fresh pico de gallo: offers bright freshness and a bit of bite
• Flour tortillas burrito size: pliable and sturdy enough to hold the filling
• Cooking spray: ensures a crispy, nonstick air fryer finish
• Sour cream and extra pico de gallo for garnish: creamy and tangy toppings to finish

Instructions

Preheat the Air Fryer:

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to make sure your burritos cook evenly and get nicely crisp on the outside. A hot air fryer basket starts the browning process immediately.

Prepare the Filling:

In a large bowl, combine shredded rotisserie chicken, room temperature cream cheese, shredded cheddar, rinsed black beans, drained corn, drained diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, and fresh pico de gallo. Mix thoroughly so every bite is well-flavored and all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Assemble the Burritos:

Lay one flour tortilla flat and scoop approximately one cup of the filling into its center. Fold the two opposite sides in toward the middle and then roll the bottom edge tightly over the filling. Keep rolling until sealed into a tight burrito. This technique keeps the filling from spilling during cooking.

Spray and Cook:

Lightly spray the outside of each burrito with cooking spray. This step is essential for crisping the tortillas and preventing sticking inside the air fryer basket.

Air Frying Time:

Place the burritos seam side down in the preheated air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook for five minutes, then carefully flip each burrito, spray the other side, and cook for another five minutes. This method ensures a crisp and golden finish on both sides.

Serve Warm:

Remove burritos carefully from the air fryer and serve immediately topped with a dollop of sour cream and extra pico de gallo for contrast in flavor and texture.

My favorite part of this recipe has to be the combination of creamy, cheesy filling with the crispiness of the air-fried tortilla. It reminds me of a family picnic where everyone gathered around and devoured these burritos fresh and warm. The balance between the fresh pico de gallo and the melted cheese is what keeps bringing us back to make these again and again.

Storage Tips

Keep cooked burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Let them cool completely before sealing to avoid sogginess. For longer storage, wrap burritos individually in plastic wrap or foil and place in freezersafe bags for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap shredded chicken with ground beef, turkey, or plantbased meat alternatives. Use pepper jack or Monterey jack cheese for a different cheese profile. Substitute canned corn and black beans with fresh corn kernels and cooked beans if you prefer more texture. For taco seasoning, homemade blends with cumin, chili powder, garlic, and oregano work beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

Top each burrito with fresh guacamole or a drizzle of chipotle sauce for extra richness and kick. Serve with Mexican rice or a crisp black bean salad. For a lighter take, deconstruct the burrito into a bowl and top with lettuce and your favorite dressing.

These burritos are a quick, customizable weeknight dinner that freeze and reheat well. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings.

Common Recipe Questions

→ How can I customize the filling?

Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap chicken for turkey or beef to create your preferred flavor.

→ Can I make my own taco seasoning?

Yes, blend spices such as cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and oregano for a fresh, homemade seasoning mix.

→ How do I make a vegetarian version?

Omit the chicken and increase the amount of beans and vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for a meat-free option.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with these burritos?

Pair with Mexican rice, guacamole, fresh salads, or grilled vegetables for complementary flavors and textures.

→ Can I prepare the burritos ahead of time?

Yes, assemble them in advance and keep refrigerated until ready to air fry for fresh, crispy results.