Description: These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken & Mozzarella Wraps are a delightful and easy-to-make appetizer or light meal, perfect for using up leftover cooked chicken. They combine the savory flavors of chicken, melted mozzarella, and creamy cheese with aromatic herbs and spices, all wrapped in a crispy, golden-brown tortilla shell. Air frying ensures they are perfectly crispy without the excess oil of traditional frying, making them a healthier and equally delicious option. Whether you’re hosting a game night, planning a quick family dinner, or just craving a satisfying snack, these wraps are guaranteed to be a hit.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded or finely chopped (approximately 5-6 ounces)
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (about 2 ounces)
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened (2 ounces), allows for easier mixing and a smoother texture.
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste (start with 1/4 tsp of each)
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for added freshness and color)
For the Wraps:
- 4 large flour tortillas (approximately 10-12 inches in diameter), or egg roll wrappers for extra crispiness.
- 1 egg, beaten (for sealing), provides a strong adhesive to prevent the wraps from opening during air frying.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (Italian-seasoned or plain, adjust to your taste)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, adds a salty, savory note and enhances the crispiness.
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for air frying), ensures even browning and crispiness.
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded or finely chopped cooked chicken, shredded mozzarella cheese, softened cream cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined, ensuring the cream cheese is evenly distributed. If using, stir in the chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and visual appeal. Taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed to suit your preference.
Step 2: Assemble the Wraps: Lay one large flour tortilla flat on a clean, dry surface. Spoon approximately 1/4 of the chicken mixture (about 1/4 cup) into the center of the tortilla, leaving about an inch of space around the edges. Be careful not to overfill the tortilla, as this can make it difficult to seal and cause the filling to leak out during air frying.
Step 3: Seal the Wraps: Brush the edges of the tortilla lightly with the beaten egg. This will act as a glue, helping the tortilla stick together and preventing the filling from escaping. Fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, then tightly roll it up from the bottom towards the top, burrito-style. Ensure the wrap is sealed securely.
Step 4: Prepare for Air Frying: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Gently roll each wrapped chicken tortilla in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere evenly to all sides. This will create a crispy, golden crust when air fried.
Step 5: Air Fry the Wraps: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with olive oil to prevent the wraps from sticking. Carefully place the prepared chicken wraps in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to air fry them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
Step 6: Cook to Perfection: Air fry the chicken wraps for 8-10 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides. The internal temperature of the chicken filling should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is heated through.
Step 7: Cool and Serve: Once the wraps are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set and prevent burning your mouth.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken & Mozzarella Wraps are incredibly versatile and adaptable to your personal taste preferences. They are a fantastic way to repurpose leftover cooked chicken, reducing food waste and creating a delicious new meal. The air frying method provides a healthier alternative to deep-frying, delivering a satisfyingly crispy texture with significantly less oil. The combination of chicken, mozzarella, and creamy cheese, along with flavorful herbs and spices, creates a truly irresistible taste sensation. The wraps are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. They are also highly customizable – you can easily add other ingredients to the filling, such as diced vegetables, different cheeses, or your favorite sauces, to create your own unique variation.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve these Crispy Air Fryer Chicken & Mozzarella Wraps as an appetizer for parties or gatherings. Cut them into smaller pieces and arrange them on a platter for easy snacking.
- Pair them with a side of marinara sauce, ranch dressing, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
- Serve them as a light lunch or dinner with a side salad, coleslaw, or French fries.
- Cut them in half and serve them as a quick and easy snack for kids.
- Add a spicy kick by including a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the filling.
Tips:
- For extra crispy wraps, use egg roll wrappers instead of flour tortillas.
- Make sure to seal the wraps tightly to prevent the filling from leaking out during air frying.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this will prevent the wraps from cooking evenly.
- If using frozen cooked chicken, thaw it completely before using it in the filling.
- For a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with cooked black beans, corn, or diced vegetables.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these wraps in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Prepare the filling in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before assembling the wraps.
- Experiment with different cheese combinations, such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or provolone.
- Add finely chopped vegetables to the filling, such as bell peppers, onions, or jalapeños, for added flavor and texture.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information: (Approximate values per wrap)
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Sodium: 500-600mg
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.)
Conclusion:
These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken & Mozzarella Wraps are a winning combination of flavor, texture, and convenience. They are easy to make, satisfying to eat, and perfect for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or a tasty snack, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. The crispy, golden-brown exterior, combined with the savory chicken and melted cheese filling, creates a truly irresistible treat that will have everyone coming back for more. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and get ready to enjoy these delicious and easy-to-make wraps!
5 Questions and Answers about this Recipe:
- Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe? Answer: Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to customize the flavor of the wraps. Cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses would work well. Consider using a cheese that melts easily for the best results. You can also add a small amount of Parmesan or Romano cheese to the filling for an extra layer of flavor.
- What if I don’t have an air fryer? Can I bake these wraps in the oven? Answer: Yes, you can definitely bake these wraps in the oven if you don’t have an air fryer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the prepared wraps on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the wraps are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning.
- Can I make these wraps ahead of time and freeze them? Answer: Yes, you can prepare these wraps ahead of time and freeze them for future use. Assemble the wraps as directed, but do not air fry them. Place the wraps in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze for about 2-3 hours, or until solid. Once frozen, transfer the wraps to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to serve, air fry the frozen wraps at 375°F (190°C) for about 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through the cooking time.
- I’m a vegetarian. What can I substitute for the chicken in this recipe? Answer: For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with a variety of ingredients. Cooked black beans, corn, diced vegetables (such as bell peppers, onions, and zucchini), or even crumbled vegetarian “chicken” substitutes would work well. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the filling for added flavor and nutrients.
- Can I add any sauces or dips to the filling for extra flavor? Answer: Absolutely! Adding sauces or dips to the filling can enhance the flavor and add a touch of moisture. Consider adding a spoonful of your favorite barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, ranch dressing, or even a small amount of salsa to the chicken mixture. Just be careful not to add too much liquid, as this can make the wraps soggy. A little goes a long way!
