Here is a full Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas recipe, cooked in the air fryer! This is a quick and delicious take on a classic, featuring tender chicken, a creamy filling, and melted cheese wrapped in soft tortillas, all crisped up in the air fryer for a perfect finish. I’ve included all the details you’ll need, from time and temperature to tips and guidelines.
Ingredients:
- 2 large chicken breasts (about 500g/1 lb)
- 1 cup (240g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack cheese)
- 1/2 cup (120g) salsa (choose mild, medium, or hot depending on preference)
- 1/2 cup (120g) sour cream
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6-8 small flour tortillas (or corn tortillas, depending on preference)
- 1/4 cup (60g) enchilada sauce (for drizzling)
- 1/2 cup (50g) shredded cheese (for topping)
- Fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Equipment:
- Air fryer
- Large mixing bowl
- Small baking dish or plate for assembling
- Spoon or spatula for spreading the filling
- Tongs (for flipping the enchiladas if necessary)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Cook the Chicken: You can either boil, bake, or use a rotisserie chicken. If boiling, place the chicken breasts in a pot of water, bring to a boil, and cook for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
- Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks or chop it into small bite-sized pieces.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, softened cream cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, salsa, sour cream, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is combined and you have a smooth, creamy filling.
- Assemble the Enchiladas:
- Lay out your tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon the creamy chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla (about 2-3 tablespoons per tortilla), then roll them up tightly to form enchiladas.
- Optionally, you can tuck the ends of the tortillas under slightly to secure the filling.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This ensures the air fryer is hot and ready for even cooking.
- Cook the Enchiladas in the Air Fryer:
- Place the enchiladas seam-side down in the air fryer basket or tray. Be sure to leave a little space between each enchilada to ensure even air circulation.
- Cook at 360°F (180°C) for 8-10 minutes. After 5 minutes, check on them, and if necessary, flip the enchiladas gently using tongs for an even crisp.
- If your air fryer has a tray or rack, you may need to rotate them halfway through cooking for even results.
- Add Cheese Topping:
- After the enchiladas are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the air fryer.
- Drizzle about 1/4 cup of enchilada sauce over the top of the enchiladas and sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese (about 1/2 cup) on top.
- Return the enchiladas to the air fryer for another 2-3 minutes at 360°F (180°C), just long enough to melt the cheese and warm the sauce.
- Serve:
- Once the cheese has melted and everything is bubbly and golden, remove the enchiladas from the air fryer.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired, and serve immediately with extra sour cream, guacamole, or salsa on the side.
Tips & Guidelines:
- Chicken: If you’re in a rush, you can use a rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken from the store. Just make sure to shred it finely for easy stuffing in the tortillas.
- Tortillas: While flour tortillas are typically used for enchiladas, you can also use corn tortillas for a more traditional flavor. If using corn tortillas, you may want to warm them slightly before rolling to prevent cracking.
- Customize the Filling: Add other ingredients to the filling if desired, such as diced onions, green chilies, or black beans, for extra flavor.
- Air Fryer Size: The size of your air fryer basket or tray will determine how many enchiladas you can cook at once. If necessary, cook them in batches. Ensure there’s enough space between each enchilada for the air to circulate.
- Crispy vs Soft: If you prefer your enchiladas to be a little softer, cook them for less time. If you prefer them extra crispy, cook them a little longer and allow the cheese to get golden and bubbly.
- No Need for Oil: Since you’re using the air fryer, you don’t need to add oil. The tortillas will crisp up nicely on their own thanks to the circulating hot air.
- Extra Sauce: If you prefer a saucier enchilada, drizzle more enchilada sauce over the rolled tortillas before placing them in the air fryer, or serve extra sauce on the side.
Troubleshooting:
- Enchiladas not crispy enough: If the enchiladas aren’t as crispy as you’d like, try cooking them for an extra 2-3 minutes. You can also increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) for the final few minutes to get the tortillas extra crispy.
- Filling oozing out: If you’re having trouble with the filling oozing out of the tortillas, make sure to roll them tightly and secure the ends slightly. You can also use toothpicks to help hold them in place if necessary.
- Uneven cooking: If your air fryer has a tray or rack, rotate the enchiladas halfway through cooking to ensure they cook evenly. Some air fryers have uneven heat distribution, so a quick check and rotation help.
Summary:
- Temperature: 360°F (180°C)
- Cook time: 8-10 minutes (with an additional 2-3 minutes for melted cheese)
- Air fryer tips: Ensure some space between the enchiladas for even cooking, and rotate them halfway through if necessary.
Enjoy your Cream Cheese Chicken Enchiladas crispy on the outside, creamy on the inside, and packed with flavor. Serve with your favorite sides like Mexican rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Bon appétit! 🌯
