Imagine crispy, perfectly seasoned chicken tenders with a Mexican-inspired twist that can be prepared in just 22 minutes! These Ninja Foodi Taco Chicken Tenders are not just a meal, they're a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece. Whether you're cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing your partner with a delicious dish, this recipe promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 22 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup shredded cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken tenders by patting them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a medium mixing bowl, coat the chicken tenders evenly with taco seasoning, ensuring each tender is completely covered.
- Drizzle olive oil into the Ninja Foodi crisping basket, using a silicone brush to spread it evenly and prevent sticking.
- Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer inside the Ninja Foodi crisping basket, making sure they are not overlapping.
- Close the Ninja Foodi lid and set the air crisp function to 400°F (204°C).
- Cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking to ensure even browning and crispy texture.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the crisping basket and transfer to a serving plate.
- Top the hot chicken tenders with fresh salsa and sprinkle shredded cheese over the top.
- Let the chicken rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to slightly melt and flavors to meld together.
- Serve immediately with optional side garnishes like chopped cilantro, sour cream, or lime wedges.
Tips
- Always pat chicken tenders dry before seasoning to ensure maximum crispiness and better seasoning adherence.
- Use a silicone brush for even olive oil distribution to prevent sticking and promote uniform browning.
- Don't overcrowd the Ninja Foodi basket - a single layer ensures each tender gets crispy and cooks evenly.
- Invest in a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (74°C).
- For extra flavor, consider using homemade taco seasoning or experimenting with different salsa varieties.
- Let the chicken rest briefly after cooking to allow juices to redistribute and cheese to melt slightly.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and most enjoyable eating experience.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 405kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 51g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
