Crispy Air Fryer Mozzarella Wraps

This crispy, cheesy chicken wrap has become my weeknight salvation when I need something satisfying that doesn't take forever to make. The air fryer creates the perfect crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and the cheese melty—a combination that's simply irresistible.

I created this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something my teenagers would actually eat between their activities. Now it's requested at least twice a month and has become our go to meal when we need something substantial but don't have much time.

Ingredients

• Chicken breasts: The foundation of our wrap providing lean protein. Look for plump pieces without dry edges
• Garlic powder: Adds depth of flavor without the bite of fresh garlic. Use fresh if you prefer more intensity
• Paprika: Brings a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the chicken. Sweet Hungarian paprika works wonderfully
• Salt and pepper: The essential seasonings that enhance everything else. Use kosher salt for better flavor distribution
• Whole wheat tortillas: Provides a nutty flavor and extra nutrition. Choose ones that feel pliable not stiff
• Mozzarella cheese: Creates that irresistible melty cheese pull. Fresh mozzarella can be used but shredded melts more evenly
• Fresh spinach: Adds nutrition and color. Make sure it's truly fresh without any wilting for best results
• Ranch dressing: Optional but adds a creamy tanginess that complements the crispy wrap perfectly

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the chicken:

Cut chicken breasts into thin strips about quarter inch thick ensuring even cooking. Then mix your seasonings in a bowl before tossing the chicken to coat every piece thoroughly. The even distribution of spices is critical for consistent flavor throughout.

Preheat your air fryer:

Set your air fryer to 375°F and let it preheat for 3 to 5 minutes. This step is often overlooked but preheating ensures your chicken starts cooking immediately and develops a better exterior.

Cook the chicken:

Spray the basket lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange your seasoned chicken strips in a single layer without overlapping. Cook for 8 minutes total flipping each piece at the 4 minute mark. Look for golden brown edges and ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Assemble your wraps:

Lay out each tortilla and build from the bottom up. Start with a layer of fresh spinach covering about two thirds of the surface. Add a generous handful of shredded mozzarella approximately quarter cup per wrap. Distribute the hot chicken strips evenly across each wrap.

Roll the wraps:

Start rolling from the bottom edge tucking it under the filling and rolling forward while keeping the sides tucked in. A tight roll is crucial for preventing filling from escaping during the second cook.

Crisp the wraps:

Place each wrap seam side down in your air fryer basket after lightly spraying the outside with oil. This final cooking for 2 to 3 minutes transforms the tortilla creating that irresistible crispy exterior that makes this dish special.

Serve immediately:

Let the wraps cool just slightly about 1 minute then slice diagonally and serve. The ranch dressing makes an excellent dipping sauce that balances the savory flavors perfectly.

Save This

The mozzarella cheese is definitely the star ingredient here. I once tried substituting cheddar and while still good it didn't have that same stretchy cheese pull that makes these wraps so satisfying. The first time I served these to my family everyone went silent for the first minute just enjoying that perfect combination of crispy tortilla and melty cheese.

Make Ahead Options

You can prepare these wraps completely up through assembly then wrap individually in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat simply unwrap and proceed with the final air frying step. The chicken can also be cooked up to two days ahead and stored separately making assembly even quicker when you're ready to eat.

Customization Ideas

These wraps welcome endless variations. Try adding roasted red peppers for sweetness or pickled jalapeños for heat. Swap the mozzarella for pepper jack to add spice or use a combination of cheeses for more complex flavor. The spinach can be replaced with arugula for a peppery bite or even shredded romaine for extra crunch.

Serving Suggestions

These wraps pair beautifully with a simple side salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. For a heartier meal serve alongside sweet potato fries which can also be made in the air fryer while the wraps rest. A fresh cucumber and tomato salad also makes a refreshing counterpoint to the warm crispy wraps.

Air Fryer Tips

The success of this recipe depends heavily on your air fryer technique. Different models vary in power so watch your first batch carefully noting the exact time needed for your specific appliance. Always arrange food in a single layer even if it means cooking in batches. For maximum crispiness avoid overcrowding which causes steaming instead of crisping.

Common Queries

→ How do you get the wraps extra crispy in the air fryer?

Lightly spray the wraps with olive oil spray and ensure they're placed seam-side down. Avoid overlapping for even crisping.

→ Can other cheeses be used besides mozzarella?

Yes, try provolone, cheddar, or a blend of shredded cheeses for different flavors and melting qualities.

→ Is it necessary to preheat the air fryer?

Preheating allows the chicken and wraps to cook evenly and adopt a uniform crispness. Just 3-5 minutes is usually enough.

→ What substitutions work for spinach in the filling?

Fresh kale, arugula, or even thinly sliced bell peppers make great substitutes for spinach in the wraps.

→ How do you prevent the tortilla from splitting?

Warm tortillas slightly before filling to make them more pliable and reduce splitting when rolling and air frying.

→ Can the chicken be prepared in advance?

Absolutely. Cook and chill the chicken strips ahead of time; assemble wraps just before air frying for best texture.