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Air Fryer Chile Relleno

This Air Fryer Chile Relleno Recipe gives you all the delicious flavors of the classic dish—roasted poblano peppers stuffed with melty cheese and coated in a crispy crust—without the deep-fried mess. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you just need some cheesy goodness in your life!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 26 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large poblano peppers
  • 1 cup shredded cheese Monterey Jack, cheddar, or Mexican blend
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cumin optional
  • Cooking spray

Optional Toppings:

  • Salsa sour cream, avocado, cilantro

Instructions
 

Roast the Peppers

  • Place poblanos over a gas stove flame or under the broiler for 5-7 minutes, turning until the skin is blistered.
  • Transfer to a bowl, cover, and let them steam for 10 minutes to loosen the skin.

Peel & Stuff

  • Peel the charred skin, make a small slit, and remove seeds.
  • Stuff each pepper with lots of cheese (because cheese is life).

Coat for Crispiness

  • Dip each stuffed pepper into beaten eggs.
  • Roll in flour + panko mixture (with seasonings).

Air Fry to Perfection

  • Preheat air fryer to 375°F.
  • Lightly spray basket & place peppers in a single layer.
  • Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

Serve & Enjoy!

  • Top with salsa, sour cream, and avocado.
  • Pair with rice and beans or eat them straight off the plate—no judgment!

Notes

  • Crispier? Spray tops lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
  • Gluten-free? Swap flour & panko for crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Spicier? Add pepper jack cheese or a drizzle of hot sauce.