Chicken strips are a popular and delicious dish that can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main course. They are versatile, easy to prepare, and loved by people of all ages. If you are a fan of chicken strips and own a Ninja Air Fryer, you are in for a treat. In this article, we will guide you through a quick and easy recipe on how to cook chicken strips in a Ninja Air Fryer. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s make sure we have all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need the following:
– Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breast for the best results. You can use fresh or frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely if using frozen.
– Breadcrumbs: Opt for seasoned breadcrumbs to add extra flavor. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
– All-Purpose Flour: This will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken and create a crispy coating.
– Eggs: Beat a couple of eggs to create an egg wash, which will also help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
– Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings to the breadcrumbs to enhance the flavor. Garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper work well.
– Cooking Spray: To prevent the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket, it’s a good idea to use cooking spray. Alternatively, you can brush the basket with oil.
Prepare the Chicken Strips
Now that you have all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to prepare the chicken strips. Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin, even strips. This will ensure that they cook evenly and result in tender, juicy chicken strips.
Create a Breading Station
To make the coating process seamless, set up a breading station. Take three shallow bowls or plates and place them side by side. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs to create the egg wash. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with your chosen seasonings.
Bread the Chicken Strips
Take each chicken strip and dip it into the flour, lightly coating it on all sides. Shake off any excess flour. Then, dip the chicken strip into the egg wash, ensuring it is coated evenly. Lastly, transfer the chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture and press gently to coat it entirely with breadcrumbs. Repeat this process with all the chicken strips.
Cooking Process in Ninja Air Fryer
Now that your chicken strips are breaded and ready to go, let’s move on to the cooking process using the Ninja Air Fryer.
Preheat the Air Fryer
First, preheat your Ninja Air Fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes. This will ensure that the chicken strips cook evenly and achieve that desired crispy texture.
Cooking Time
Once the air fryer is preheated, it’s time to cook the chicken strips. Open the air fryer basket and place the breaded chicken strips inside, making sure they are not overcrowded. If needed, cook them in batches.
Adjust the Cooking Time
The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken strips and the air fryer model you are using. As a general guideline, cook the chicken strips for about 12-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through. However, it’s crucial to check for doneness by cutting into one strip to ensure it is thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Enjoy Your Air-Fried Chicken Strips
Once the chicken strips are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer basket and let them cool for a few minutes. This will allow them to become even crispier. Serve the chicken strips with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, barbecue, or honey mustard. They also pair well with a refreshing side salad or a plate of crispy fries.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After enjoying your delicious chicken strips, it’s essential to clean and maintain your Ninja Air Fryer to ensure its longevity. The cleaning process is simple and straightforward.
Cooling Down
Allow the air fryer to cool down completely before cleaning. This will prevent any potential burn injuries.
Cleaning the Basket
Remove the air fryer basket from the unit and wash it with warm, soapy water. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to avoid damaging the non-stick coating. Make sure to remove any food residue or grease thoroughly.
Wiping the Unit
Using a damp cloth, wipe the interior and exterior of the air fryer unit. Be careful not to let any water enter the electrical components to avoid damage.
Storage
Once the air fryer is completely dry, reassemble the parts and store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it with any moisture or in a humid environment.
In conclusion, cooking chicken strips in a Ninja Air Fryer is a quick and easy process that yields deliciously crispy results. By following this simple recipe and using the right techniques, you can enjoy homemade chicken strips that are healthier than deep-fried alternatives. Experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to personalize your chicken strips further. With your Ninja Air Fryer as your trusty kitchen companion, you can indulge in this tasty dish anytime you want!