Chicken - Southern Cravings

Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Chick Copycat Recipe

Anna Kate — Wed, 05 Jun 2024 16:56:14 +0000

If you love the Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad from Chicken Salad Chick, I’ve got the perfect copycat recipe for you! This recipe is made with bacon bits, rotisserie chicken, cheddar cheese, and ranch dressing and comes together for an absolutely addicting chicken salad! It’s super easy to make, affordable, and delicious. It’s not your average chicken salad recipe!

You really can’t go wrong with a classic chicken salad recipe, but the flavors in this version are next level! I love to make this at the beginning of the week and have it for lunch and quick dinners during the summertime. It’s refreshing and filling, too.

Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad

If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting a Chicken Salad Chick restaurant, you are missing out! It’s a casual little spot that serves up delicious variations of pimento cheese, chicken salad, and a few other delicious side dishes (grape salad is my favorite!).

It’s a great place to grab a few items to go or have a quick bite to eat with a friend. The flavors are named with quirky little titles, like this Sassy Scotty recipe, made with bacon, cheddar, and ranch flavors. It’s probably my favorite flavor they offer.

Other flavors include Classic Carol, which is your typical chicken salad recipe. Fancy Nancy incorporates fruits and nuts. Buffalo Barclay is the buffalo version. The list goes on!

Knowing how to make a great chicken salad is part of Southern tradition. It’s also the perfect dish to take to a potluck or to make for quick sandwiches by the pool. I even like to snack on this with crackers, too!

Why I Love This Recipe

Simplicity: With only a few basic ingredients, including cooked shredded chicken, cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles, and ranch dressing, this recipe is simple but packed with flavor.
Budget-Friendly: Utilizing basic pantry staples and affordable ingredients, this recipe proves that delicious meals don’t have to break the bank.
Texture & Flavor: The combination of tender chicken, sharp cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing creates a savory blend of textures and flavors that make this chicken salad crave-able!
Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps and no-fuss techniques, you can whip up this salad in no time, making it a convenient option.
Versatile: Serve a scoop of chicken salad as a dip with crackers, on a croissant, or on a bed of fresh greens for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Ingredient Notes and Substitutions

Cooked Shredded Chicken: I use a store bought rotisserie chicken for convenience, but you can also use poached chicken breasts, chicken tenderloins, or canned chicken.
Cheddar Cheese: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor and creamy texture. I prefer to shred my own cheese, but pre shredded cheese will work just fine.
Bacon Crumbles: Feel free to swap bacon bits for strips of bacon. Just make sure you get the real bacon bits and not artificial products.
Ranch Dressing and Mayonnaise: For the mayo haters, there’s zero mayonnaise flavor in this chicken salad recipe. The mayo and ranch packet make a delicious binder for the rest of the ingredients and add additional flavor. I will say that Duke’s Mayonnaise is a favorite!

How to Make Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Bacon

To start, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and chop the bacon slices. As mentioned above, you can also use a store-bought rotisserie chicken and pre-made bacon bits as shortcuts.

Alternatively, you can also poach your own chicken. It’s a super easy process and only takes a few minutes!

Step 2: Assemble the Salad

To make the dressing, stir together the mayonnaise, ranch dressing, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.

Next, add the shredded chicken, celery, green onion, cheddar cheese, and bacon to the same bowl and stir to combine.

Chill in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve! To enjoy this just like the Chicken Salad Chick restaurant, serve on a croissant.

Tips

Reserve some bacon crumbles and green onion for garnish.
For a spicy kick, sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes into the salad mixture.
Experiment with different cheese varieties such as pepper jack or Swiss for unique flavor combinations.

What to Serve with Chicken Salad

Pair this Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad with freshly baked croissants or toasted whole grain bread for a satisfying meal. For a lighter option, serve on a bed of lettuce drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.

Here are a few ideas for side dishes:

Potato Salad
Egg Salad – have a salad duo for lunch!
Potato Chips
A cup of vegetable soup
Broccoli Salad
Grape Salad

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds an extra depth of flavor to the salad.

How long will the chicken salad last in the refrigerator?

Stored in an airtight container, the chicken salad will keep for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I freeze the chicken salad for later use?

While technically possible, freezing may alter the texture of the salad, particularly the fresh vegetables and dressing.

What can I serve with this chicken salad for a complete meal

Pair the salad with a side of fresh fruit, kettle chips, or a cup of creamy tomato soup for a well-rounded meal.

Storing Tips

Store chicken salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Consume within 3 days for optimal freshness. Freezing is not recommended as it may compromise the texture of the salad.

Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Chick Copycat Recipe

Course lunch

Cuisine American, Southern

Keyword chicken salad, easy recipes, lunch, meal prep, summer, summer recipes

Prep Time 10

Total Time 10

Servings

Calories 448kcal

Author Anna Kate

Ingredients

2 cups shredded chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken
¼ cup celery finely chopped, about 2 large ribs
¾ cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons ranch dressing use your favorite bottled ranch
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
3 tablespoons green onion finely chopped (about 2 green onions)
1 cup crumbled bacon about 6-8 slices
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese freshly shredded

Instructions

Shred the cooked chicken breasts or rotisserie chicken. If you are preparing the chicken fresh, set aside to cool.
Chop 6-8 pieces of bacon and add to a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook until all the crumbles are crispy and brown, about 8-10 minutes.
To a large bowl, add the mayonnaise, ranch, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Add the cooled chicken, chopped celery, green onion, bacon, and cheese to the bowl of the mayonnaise mixture. Stir until well-combined.
Chill in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Serve on a croissant, bed of greens, or sandwich bread!

Nutrition

The post Sassy Scotty Chicken Salad Chick Copycat Recipe appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Whole Chicken Wings

Anna Kate — Wed, 10 Apr 2024 10:00:00 +0000

These air fryer whole chicken wings are crispy, succulent, and downright addicting! With just 8 ingredients and the convenience of the air fryer, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results that are impossible to resist. Serve them for game days, potlucks, and backyard get-togethers!

Whether you’re hosting friends and family or just craving a savory snack, these air fryer whole chicken wings are always a hit! Like my air fryer buffalo wings, they turn out perfectly crispy without the mess of a deep fryer.

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a recipe that’s easy to make yet delivers crowd-pleasing flavors, and these air fryer whole chicken wings do just that.

Simply toss the chicken wings with a few pantry spices and oil, then let the air fryer work its magic. The result is a plate of wings with crispy skin, juicy meat, and big, bold flavors that the whole family will love.

If you love a good dipping sauce, try this lemon pepper wing sauce! So tangy and delicious!

Ingredient Notes

Besides the chicken, all of the ingredients in this recipe are pantry staples. Here is a breakdown:

Chicken Wings: For air fryer chicken wings, it’s best to use fresh or fully thawed whole chicken wings that you can split into flats and drumettes yourself, or you can buy them already separated.
Olive Oil: Ensures the wings cook up crispy and helps the spices adhere.
Garlic Powder: Brings a rich, aromatic, and ultra-savory flavor.
Onion Powder: Adds depth and a slight sweetness to the spice blend.
Smoked Paprika: Imparts a smoky, slightly spicy undertone but doesn’t overpower the other spices.

Substitutions

Oil: Avocado oil is another option with its high smoke point and neutral taste.
Garlic & Onion Powder: You can also use garlic and onion granules. Substitute them in a 1:1 ratio for a similar seasoning taste.
Smoked Paprika: Chipotle powder or ancho chile powder can offer a similar smokiness, but use them sparingly to avoid overpowering the dish.

How to Make Chicken Wings in the Air Fryer

These air fryer chicken wings are incredibly easy to make, especially with my step-by-step instructions and tips! Here’s everything you need to know.

Preparation

Split the chicken wings and remove the tips by locating the joint that connects the tip to the rest of the wing. Use a sharp knife to cut through the joint, separating the tip from the wing.

To remove the tips completely, simply cut at the joint between the tip and the flat, discarding the tip or saving it for making stock. Meanwhile, set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cooking

Step 1
Pat the chicken wings dry with a paper towel. Thoroughly drying the wings is essential to achieving that perfect crispy exterior.

Step 2
In a medium bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until they’re evenly coated. Make sure each wing is well-coated for the best flavor and texture.

Tip: Use my homemade classic chicken wing rub.

Step 3
Grease the air fryer basket and arrange the wings in a single layer. Do not overcrowd the basket, as this will prevent air from circulating freely and result in soggy wings.

Step 4
Bake the wings for 20-22 minutes, flipping them after 10 minutes. Use tongs for easy flipping and to keep the coating intact.

Step 5
Once the wings are done, remove them from the air fryer. If you’d like, you can toss them with your favorite sauce for extra flavor.

Expert Tip

To make the crispiest air fryer whole chicken wings, the real game-changer is making sure your wings are as dry as possible before tossing them with seasonings.

This simple step ensures the skin crisps up perfectly without being steamed inside the air fryer. Moisture is the enemy of crispiness, and taking the time to pat each wing dry with paper towels makes all the difference.

Cooking Tips

Preheat the Air Fryer: While not completely necessary, a preheated air fryer starts cooking the wings immediately, reducing sticking and giving them a crispier texture.

Grease the Basket: Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This step is necessary even if your basket is non-stick.

Check the Temperature: Check the wings with a meat thermometer to ensure they’re fully cooked. They’re safe to eat at an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Let the Wings Rest: Give your chicken wings a few minutes to sit after they finish cooking. This helps redistribute the juices, keeping the meat tender and juicy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your air fryer whole chicken wings on game day with other finger foods, like air fryer frozen meatballs, ham and cheese sliders, loaded nachos with pulled pork, and pigs in a blanket.

I also love mine with air fryer frozen sweet potato fries or regular air fryer frozen fries for a crispy, comforting pairing. And don’t forget some blue cheese dressing, Alabama white BBQ sauce, ranch, or a spicy aioli to dip the wings into!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken wings are fully cooked?

Chicken wings are safe to eat when their internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the wing without touching the bone.

Can I use frozen chicken wings?

Yes, but for best results, thaw them completely and pat them dry before seasoning and cooking. This helps achieve the crispy texture you’re after.

Why are my chicken wings not crispy?

This could be due to excess moisture on the wings or overcrowding in the air fryer basket. Ensure the wings are dry and cook them in batches if necessary.

Storing & Reheating

Air fryer whole chicken wings are best enjoyed fresh, but storing and reheating properly can help you make meals all week long! Let them cool completely before storing them.

Fridge

Cooked chicken wings can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They will last for up to 3 days this way.

Freezer

Freezing is an option for longer storage. Arrange the cooked wings on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat the wings in the air fryer at 380 degrees Fahrenheit for a few minutes until they’re heated through and crispy. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor better than microwaving.

More Chicken Recipes

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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Wings

These air fryer whole chicken wings are crispy and downright addicting! With just a few ingredients and the convenience of the air fryer, this recipe delivers mouthwatering results that are impossible to resist. Serve them for game days, potlucks, and backyard get-togethers!

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, cheap dinner, Chicken recipe, Chicken Wings

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings

Calories 159kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds chicken wings
1 tablespoon olive oil
½ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
cooking spray

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
Pat the wings dry with a paper towel.
In a medium bowl, toss the wings with olive oil, salt, pepper and seasonings.
Place the wings in a single layer in a greased air fryer basket.
Bake wings 20-22 minutes until skin is crisp, flipping the wings after 10 minutes.
Remove wings from the air fryer and toss with sauce as desired.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Whole Chicken Wings appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Anna Kate — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 14:39:04 +0000

This air fryer whole chicken tastes like a rotisserie chicken but requires only a fraction of the effort! With just 3 ingredients and an hour, you’ll have a balanced and nourishing meal on the table. It’s perfect for busy weeknight dinners and meal prep.

You won’t believe how versatile this air fryer whole chicken recipe is! Whether you’re looking to serve it as a main dish, shred it for chicken salad and air fryer quesadillas, or slice it for sandwiches, the possibilities are endless.

Why I Love This Recipe

This air fryer whole chicken recipe is a staple in my kitchen. Since I’m all about simple, fuss-free meals, I prefer to leave the trussing and extra ingredients for someone else. This recipe is basic but absolutely delicious.

The olive oil and poultry seasoning add just the right amount of flavor, resulting in a juicy interior and a perfectly crispy skin. Plus, the air fryer makes preparation even easier yet delivers a gourmet taste. I’m always surprised at how well this recipe turns out!

Ingredient Notes

With so few ingredients required, you can make this air fryer whole chicken recipe any night of the week. Here’s a full breakdown of everything you’ll need:

Whole fryer chicken: Fryer chickens are small, tender, and have a relatively high amount of moisture, making them ideal for air frying. If you’re unsure, ask the butcher at the deli counter to point you in the right direction.
Olive oil: Helps crisp the skin and adhere the seasonings to the chicken.
Poultry seasoning: Use store-bought or homemade. I use a store-bought blend of garlic, onion, sweet chili pepper, oregano, rosemary and basil.

Substitutions

Oil: If you don’t have any olive oil, use avocado, vegetable, or canola oil.
Poultry Seasoning: If you don’t have a premade poultry seasoning, you can create your own blend using dried herbs such as thyme, rosemary, sage, and marjoram. You can also use whatever spices you like to fit the cuisine, like taco seasoning, Greek seasoning, or Cajun seasoning.

How to Make an Air Fryer Rotisserie Chicken

This air fryer whole chicken recipe requires little hands-on effort, and my step-by-step instructions make it virtually foolproof. Make sure to read all my tips and tricks for the best results!

Preparation

If you have a frozen whole fryer chicken, make sure it’s completely thawed so it cooks evenly. Remove any giblets from the cavity and pat the chicken dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and the skin to crisp up.

Cooking

Step 1
Drizzle olive oil over the whole chicken, rubbing it in to coat it evenly. Then, season the chicken with poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to rub the seasoning all over the chicken, including under the skin, for deeper flavor infusion.

Step 2
Preheat your air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Once heated, spray the basket with cooking spray and place the chicken breast side down in it. Starting the chicken breast-side down helps render the fat more effectively.

Step 3
Cook it for 30 minutes, then carefully flip the chicken to the breast-side up and continue cooking for 20-30 minutes. Use a pair of sturdy tongs and kitchen gloves to protect your hands when flipping the chicken.

Step 4
Check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit at the thickest part without touching the bone. Let the chicken rest for about 10 minutes before serving.

Expert Tip

Don’t let your air fryer whole chicken go to waste by serving it too quickly! The resting period gives the juices time to redistribute, giving you much juicer and more flavorful chicken pieces.

Also, I can’t stress the importance of letting your chicken thaw completely and come to room temperature. If you cook it from frozen or half-frozen, it will cook unevenly, resulting in overcooked and undercooked places.

Cooking Tips

Dry Thoroughly: Pat the chicken dry, inside and out, to help achieve crispy skin. You don’t want any moisture (or as little as possible) on your fryer chicken.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for the best results. Most modern air fryers have a ‘preheat’ setting that takes about 3-5 minutes.

Use Cooking Spray: I highly recommend spraying the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent the chicken from sticking as it cooks.

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer whole chicken works well with a wide range of sides. Pair it with a light, refreshing salad, like mixed greens with vinaigrette or my Caprese salad recipe.

For something heartier, try roasted oven roasted baby carrots, herb roasted potatoes, or air fryer frozen broccoli. For a more comforting option, shred it and add it to crustless chicken pot pie. There are too many options to list!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. To check the temperature correctly, insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the thigh, not touching the bone.

What if my air fryer isn’t big enough for a whole chicken?

For smaller air fryers, consider cooking chicken pieces or a smaller bird. The main thing is to not overcrowd the basket to allow hot air to circulate freely.

How can I make the skin extra crispy?

Make sure the chicken is completely dry, and lightly coat it with oil for crispier skin. Turning the heat up slightly during the last few minutes can also help.

Storing & Reheating

Leftover air fryer whole chicken is just as delicious the next day! Just let it cool to room temperature before storing it.

Fridge
Place it in an airtight container, or tightly wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. It will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezer

Freezing cooked chicken is another great option! Cut it into smaller pieces, wrap them tightly, and store them in freezer-safe bags or containers. The pieces can be frozen for up to 4 months.

Reheating

To reheat, place the chicken in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes until warmed through. For the best results, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 15 minutes before reheating it.

More Main Dishes

Pulled Pork Tenderloin

Mississippi Pot Roast

Boneless Pork Ribs

Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Loved this recipe?

If you enjoyed this recipe, please consider leaving a star rating and a comment below! Your feedback not only helps others discover my blog but also gives me valuable insights from your experience.

Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for the latest recipes. Thank you for supporting Southern Cravings!

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Course Dinner Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, Chicken, meal prep, rotisserie, Weeknight Meal

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 1

Resting Time 10

Total Time 1 15

Servings

Calories 298kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

3 ½ – 4 pound whole fryer chicken these are on the smaller side compared to a roaster chicken
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons poultry seasoning your choice
salt and pepper to taste Check to see if your seasoning blend already contains salt to avoid over-salting the chicken.
cooking spray

Instructions

Check the cavity of the chicken and remove the giblet back and neck if included. Pat the outside of the chicken dry with paper towels. Place the chicken in a large bowl or rimmed container for easy clean up.
Drizzle both sides of the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with the poultry seasoning. You may need more or less than the recipe calls for. Use your best judgment, making sure the chicken is well-seasoned.
Allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking.
Preheat the air fryer to 350°F. When preheated, spray the basket with cooking spray and place the chicken breast-side down into the air fryer basket.
Cook for 30 minutes, then flip the chicken over and cook for 20-30 minutes more, or until an instant read thermometer reads 165°F.
Remove from the air fryer and rest 10 minutes before carving.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Whole Chicken appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Quesadillas

Anna Kate — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 19:47:51 +0000

Crispy on the outside and gooey on the inside, air fryer quesadillas are a serious game changer! Perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or casual dinner, they give you the timeless appeal of a classic chicken quesadilla with the convenience of an air fryer. Serve them with guacamole, salsa, and sour cream!

Why I Love This Recipe

Quick & easy: Everything is prepped and cooked in under 10 minutes.
Customizable: You can easily swap ingredients based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand in your kitchen.
Kid-friendly: Everyone loves air fryer quesadillas, even picky eaters!
Healthier option: Less oil is needed compared to traditional frying, meaning you can indulge without guilt!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Quesadillas

Quesadillas are universally loved for their crispy exterior and melty, gooey, cheesy interior. These air fryer quesadillas are all that and more, bringing a modern and convenient twist to a classic meal.

They offer the perfect combination of tender chicken shreds and melty cheese encased in a crispy flour tortilla. Plus, the air fryer makes this recipe virtually all hands-off!

Each bite is satisfyingly crunchy without being greasy. Enjoy this chicken quesadilla recipe on its own or with your favorite dips and sides.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Quesadillas

Tortillas: Flour tortillas work best for a soft yet crispy texture. However, you can also use corn tortillas or gluten-free flour tortillas if you have gluten sensitivities.
Shredded chicken: Adds protein and flavor. I like to use my Instant Pot shredded chicken recipe, but you can buy a rotisserie chicken and shred it. You can also use beef, pork, or refried beans for a vegetarian protein option.
Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a rich, creamy taste. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Chihuahua cheese are also delicious options.

How to Make Air Fryer Quesadillas

Step 1: Prep The Filling

Start by spreading shredded chicken and cheese evenly over half of your tortilla or tortillas. To prevent the tortilla from cracking, you can quickly heat it in a dry skillet or the microwave.

Step 2: Fold & Cook The Quesadilla

Fold the tortilla over the filling and place it in the air fryer basket. Set the air fryer to 350F and cook it for 8 minutes. Remember to flip the quesadilla halfway through for even cooking! For an extra crispy exterior, you can brush or spray both sides of the tortilla with vegetable oil.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Chicken Quesadillas

Pair these quesadillas with a dollop of guacamole, a scoop of fresh salsa, a side of sour cream, or even Alabama white BBQ sauce. They’re also great with a simple green salad, air fryer frozen broccoli, or crispy air fryer potatoes as a well-balanced meal.

If you’re looking for other filling ideas besides shredded chicken, try shredded beef brisket, pulled pork, or Southern baked beans.

Recipe Variations

Veggie-forward: Load the quesadilla with grilled and sliced vegetables like bell peppers, portobello mushrooms, and red onions.
Cheesy: Mix and match different cheeses! Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or Gouda for an ultra-creamy option.
Breakfast version: Add scrambled eggs and turkey bacon bits for a quick and easy breakfast idea.
Spicy beef: Use ground beef cooked with taco seasoning for a meatier option.
BBQ chicken: Toss the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce before adding it to the tortilla for a tangy, smoky twist.
Vegan: Use plant-based cheese and seitan chicken for a plant-based version.
Seafood: Fill your tortilla with sautéed shrimp and a sprinkle of cilantro.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Don’t overstuff: Overstuffing will lead to messy and undercooked air fryer quesadillas. Only add the filling to one-half of the tortilla, and don’t overdo it.
Preheat the air fryer: Preheating the air fryer isn’t completely necessary but ensures you end up with a crispier outside and a perfectly melty inside.
Flip halfway: Flipping halfway results in equally crisped sides.
Check for doneness: Adjust the cooking time based on your air fryer. You may need more or less time, so check the quesadilla frequently toward the end of cooking.
Use fresh tortillas: Fresh tortillas fold easier and won’t crack.
Shred the cheese yourself: Pre-shredded varieties often contain additives to prevent clumping, which makes them dry and harder to melt. If you can, shred your own cheese.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you have any leftover air fryer chicken quesadillas, here’s how to store and reheat them:

Fridge: Once cooled, store the quesadillas in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the quesadillas individually and freeze them for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Reheat them in the air fryer for 5-6 minutes at 350F, flipping halfway for the best results. You can cook them straight from frozen, adding a few more minutes.

Additional Recipes

If you loved this chicken quesadilla recipe, you’ll love these other crispy air fryer recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without an air fryer?

Absolutely! Quesadillas can easily be made by using a skillet. Follow the same assembly instructions, then cook the quesadillas in the skillet over medium heat until they’re golden brown on each side.

What’s the best way to flip the quesadilla in the air fryer?

You can easily flip the quesadillas in the air fryer with a spatula or tongs. Just make sure to do it carefully so they don’t fall apart!

Can I add raw ingredients to the quesadilla?

It’s always best to cook ingredients before adding them to the quesadilla to ensure even cooking. I prefer cooked and shredded chicken, pork, beef, or refried beans.

Easy Air Fryer Quesadillas (in Less Than 10 Minutes)

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine Mexican

Keyword air fryer recipe, easy recipes, quesadilla

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 8

Total Time 13

Servings

Calories 351kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

1 tortilla corn or flour, more for additional quesadillas
¼ cup shredded chicken
½ cup mexican blend cheese taco blend, etc.
Optional toppings: guacamole sour cream, salsa, etc.

Instructions

Lay out each tortilla. On one half of the tortilla, evenly spread the chicken and cheese on one half of the tortilla.
Fold the tortilla over and place in the air fryer basket. Cook at 350F for 8 minutes or until the quesadillas are crisp and golden on the outside and melty on the inside. Don’t forget to flip half way through.

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Quesadillas appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Anna Kate — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 17:27:03 +0000

Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs make an incredibly healthy, delicious, and satisfying meal. The chicken is seasoned with a blend of spicy and savory seasonings, then cooked until crispy on the outside yet tender on the inside. The best part? Quick and easy clean up. It doesn’t get much better than that!

As someone who grew up in the South, I always enjoy fried chicken at family gatherings. Still, I remember how messy and time-consuming traditional deep-frying is!

This recipe for boneless skinless chicken thighs in the air fryer has all the same comforting flavors, but it’s made in a fraction of the time and with minimal effort. Although I always have a place in my heart for fried chicken, this is now a healthier and more convenient option I can’t get enough of!

Why I Love This Recipe

Healthy: Using an air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil and limits the overall calories of the dish.
Quick: Air frying ensures each chicken thigh cooks quickly, efficiently, and evenly.
Tender: These air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs turn out crispy on the outside while retaining a juicy and moist interior.

The Best Air Fryer Chicken Thighs

Air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs are a healthier take on classic fried chicken. While fried chicken is well-known worldwide, there is no doubt it’s a staple in Southern home cooking.

In this recipe, the chicken is generously coated with a blend of garlic, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper, filling each bite with smoky, savory, and spicy flavors.

The benefit of the air fryer is especially apparent with its ability to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and moist. Serve this recipe as-is or alongside dishes like mac and cheese, coleslaw, potato salad, and cornbread.

Ingredients For Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Chicken thighs: I find boneless skinless chicken thighs work the best in the air fryer. For added flavor, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but the cooking time will vary.
Garlic powder: Adds a savory flavor with slightly toasted undertones. Don’t have any garlic on hand? Substitute it with an equal amount of onion powder.
Smoked paprika: Imparts a mildly spicy, smoky, and sweet taste. You can substitute it with regular paprika for a milder flavor or sweet paprika.
Oregano: Adds an earthy, herbal, slightly bitter note. If you don’t have oregano, replace it with dried thyme, basil, or Italian seasoning.
Salt & pepper: Salt enhances the flavors of the other seasonings, while black pepper provides a mild kick. Adjust both to suit your taste.

How To Make Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs In The Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare The Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, which not only helps the seasoning blend adhere but also results in crispier thighs. Once they are nice and dry, transfer them to a bowl.

Step 2: Season The Chicken

Combine all the seasonings in a bowl, then transfer them into the bowl with the chicken thighs. Using your hands, coat the chicken with the spices. Make sure to work the seasoning blend into the chicken so it infuses better.

Step 3: Air Fry The Chicken

While not completely necessary, I recommend preheating your air fryer to 380F. It should only take about 3-5 minutes, and you can do this while preparing the chicken.

Place the chicken smooth side down into the air fryer basket. Spray each chicken thigh with olive oil spray or cooking spray, then air fry them for 12 minutes.

Step 4: Flip And Finish Cooking

Once the air fryer beeps, use kitchen tongs to flip the chicken over, and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes on the second side, or until the chicken thighs are cooked through. Just note that every air fryer is different, so cooking times may vary slightly.

What To Serve With Chicken Thighs

Serve your chicken thighs by themselves or with a side of creamy coleslaw, a slice of skillet cornbread, or a Caprese salad. For a heartier, more filling meal, try adding a side of mashed potatoes, oven-baked sweet potatoes, or smashed red potatoes.

Recipe Variations

BBQ chicken: Brush the thighs with your favorite BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of cooking for a bold flavor.
Lemon herb: Add lemon zest along with dried rosemary, thyme, and basil to the blend for a zesty finish.
Spicy: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the seasoning mix for a spicy kick.
Teriyaki: Marinate the chicken before frying it, then baste it towards the end of cooking.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Dry the chicken: Pat your chicken thighs until completely dry to ensure even cooking and crispiness. You can use a paper towel for easier cleanup.
Adjust the seasonings: Depending on your taste preferences, add more or fewer spices to suit your needs.
Use a thermometer: The best way to tell if your chicken is done is by using an instant-read thermometer. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165F.
Preheat: Preheat the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to ensure an even cooking of the chicken.
Increase the cooking time: If you’re using bone-in chicken thighs, you’ll need to increase the cooking time accordingly.
Don’t overcrowd: Overcrowding the air fryer basket leads to uneven cooking. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary.
Flip halfway: For the perfect brown and crisp, flip the chicken around the halfway point.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you have leftover chicken thighs, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:

Fridge: Once fully cooled, transfer the leftover chicken to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer: Wrap the chicken individually in aluminum foil, then keep it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months if stored this way.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350F for 4-5 minutes, or until they are warmed to your liking. Make sure to flip the thighs halfway for even heating.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoyed these air fryer boneless skinless chicken thighs, try a few more of my best protein-packed recipes like these:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bone-in chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken thighs, but bone-in chicken thighs take longer to cook. Just remember to account for the increased time.

Do I need to use oil or nonstick spray?

Oil or nonstick spray helps prevent the thighs from sticking to the air fryer basket and promotes crispiness. I suggest using at least a little bit as it will make a difference in overall flavor.

Can I prepare this recipe in a conventional oven?

Yes, you can cook the chicken in a conventional oven at 400F for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked. Just note that the overall texture will be different compared to chicken cooked in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

Course Air Fryer Recipes, Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, Chicken, chicken thighs

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Total Time 25

Servings

Author Anna Kate

Ingredients

5-6 boneless skinless chicken thighs patted dry
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Pat chicken thighs dry with a paper towel, then transfer to a bowl.
Combine all the seasonings together in a bowl, then pour them into the bowl with the chicken and use your hands to coat the chicken with the spices.
Preheat your air fryer to 380° (mine took 3 minutes to preheat). Then, place chicken smooth side down into the air fryer, spray with nonstick spray/olive oil spray, and cook at 380° for 12 minutes. NOTE: every air fryer is different, so cook times may vary.
Once the air fryer beeps, use kitchen tongs to flip the chicken over, and cook for an additional 6-8 minutes on the second side, or until chicken is cooked through.

The post Air Fryer Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

Anna Kate — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 11:00:00 +0000

This crustless chicken pot pie is filled with fresh vegetables and creamy gravy, then baked with tender biscuits until golden brown. It’s a simple take on a classic meal that is guaranteed to please the whole family, whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or the holidays.

I love transforming classic meals into quick, easy, and convenient recipes that anyone can make. This crustless chicken pot pie is ready to serve in under an hour, and it couldn’t be more straightforward to whip together!

There is no need to make or roll out a store-bought pie crust when you can use tender and flaky biscuits! They save loads of time and effort, so you and your family can get to eating quicker — what’s not to love?

What Is Crustless Chicken Pot Pie?

Chicken pot pie is homestyle cooking at its finest. Most recipes start with a filling made up of meat (usually chicken or turkey), hearty vegetables, and a rich and creamy gravy. Oftentimes, the filling is contained between a top and bottom pie crust.

This recipe is a similar take, but I’ve replaced the pie crust with store-bought biscuits. It’s my favorite way to achieve the same great flavors and textures of a pot pie without having to go through the time and effort of making a crust!

Did I mention how freezer-friendly and perfect for leftovers this chicken pot pie is?

Ingredients For Crustless Chicken Pot Pie

See the full list of ingredients in the recipe card below.

Chicken: For convenience and time-saving benefits, use a shredded rotisserie chicken. If you have more time, poach a few boneless skinless chicken breasts, then shred them.
Chicken broth & bouillon: Both impart savory, hearty, and full-bodied flavors to the gravy. Use homemade or store-bought chicken broth or stock. Vegetable broth works in a pinch.
Butter: To sauté the vegetables and form part of the roux. You can also use neutral vegetable oil for a lighter option.
Onion: I prefer yellow onion for my chicken pot pie, but white onion works well too.
Celery: You’d be surprised at how hearty and savory celery makes a recipe. Don’t skimp on this one!
Carrots: For bursts of sweet flavor all throughout the filling. No carrots on hand? Use corn kernels or green beans instead.
Garlic: I never make a chicken pot pie without a healthy dose of garlic! Use freshly minced garlic for the best taste, but garlic powder also works. Add ¼-teaspoon for every fresh clove.
Seasonings: For all of the cozy and comforting flavors pot pie is known for, I love to use a combination of black pepper, rosemary, and sage. Feel free to add others like thyme, parsley, or even poultry seasoning.
Flour: To thicken the filling, use all-purpose flour. For a gluten-free version, swap in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend or a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.
Cream: I prefer to use half-and-half cream, but you can replace it with heavy cream for an even richer gravy if you like.
Soy sauce: My secret weapon for amping up the umami-ness of this recipe. Use tamari or liquid aminos for a gluten-free option.
Frozen peas: What would a pot pie be without peas? But don’t worry, you can swap in frozen corn kernels, green beans, or more fresh veggies if you run out of peas.
Premade biscuits: The name of the game is simple with this recipe, so I suggest store-bought biscuits. But if you have the time, try making your own!

How to Make Chicken Pot Pie With Biscuits

Step 1: Season The Chicken

If you are starting with uncooked chicken breasts, add them to a large pot. Season them with some salt, garlic, peppercorns, fresh rosemary sprigs, and onion slices.

Step 2: Poach The Chicken

Cover the chicken with water by about an inch or so, then bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer.

Check on the chicken starting at the 8-minute mark, but it should be fully cooked after about 10-14 minutes. It is done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board, and shred it using two forks.

Note: For the most accurate results, always use an instant-read thermometer when cooking chicken.

Step 3: Sauté The Vegetables

Melt the butter in an oven-proof 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. For reference, I used a cast-iron casserole. Add the onions and sauté them just until softened, then add the celery and carrots and cook for another 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add The Seasonings

Add the black pepper, garlic, rosemary, and sage to the skillet and stir to coat. Cook the mixture for about one more minute.

Step 5: Form The Roux

Reduce the heat to medium, then add the flour a little at a time and stir until well combined. Be careful not to let the flour burn. The mixture should be a paste-like consistency.

Step 6: Make The Gravy

Add the chicken broth gradually, making sure to stir constantly. Once the broth is incorporated, add the cream in the same manner. The sauce should be a thick, gravy-like consistency at this point.

Step 7: Finish The Filling

Stir in the bouillon cube, soy sauce, and shredded chicken, then let it all gently simmer until the bouillon cube melts and the ingredients are well combined. Add the peas, and remove the filling from the heat.

Step 8: Assemble The Pot Pie

Place 3-4 uncooked biscuits on top of the filling mixture, then bake it uncovered until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through. If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 casserole dish before topping it with biscuits.

Brush the top of your baked cast iron chicken pot pie with melted butter just before serving.

What To Serve With Chicken Pot Pie

This easy chicken pot pie with biscuits is a hearty dish full of protein, carbs, and fat, making it the ideal stand-alone meal. However, if you’re looking for a little something extra, here are a few recipes to serve alongside it:

Recipe Variations

Protein: Try out a different protein like turkey or even chickpeas if you’d like a vegetarian option.
Vegetables: If you don’t have the vegetables I’ve listed, just add what you have on hand or substitute them with your favorites.
Crust: Try making your own crust if you have extra time to spare. You can even make a bottom and top crust.

Tips For The Best Recipe

Precook the filling: Precooking the filling takes all the pressure off when you add it to the oven. All you have to wait for is for the biscuits to turn golden and crispy.
Stir constantly: When making the roux, don’t stop stirring or there’s a good chance the flour will burn. If the flour burns, there is no saving it and you will have to start over.
Add liquid slowly: To properly incorporate the flour with the liquid, remember to add the broth and cream slowly. Otherwise, it may turn lumpy and require more time to smooth out.

What To Do With Leftovers

If you like leftovers, you’ll be happy to know pot pies are the perfect meal for this purpose. Just follow these simple steps:

Fridge: Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container or cover the dish with plastic wrap and tin foil. Crustless chicken pot pies will last about 4-5 days in the fridge.
Freezer: You can freeze pot pies for up to 3-4 months. To make reheating easier, I suggest portioning it into single-serving freezer-safe containers. This way, you don’t have to reheat the entire pie.
Reheat: Thaw the pie in the freezer overnight if cooking from frozen. Once cooled, preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and cook for 10-20 minutes, or until warmed through.

Additional Recipes

If you enjoy comfort foods like this crustless chicken pot pie, you really need to check out some more of my most popular homestyle recipes:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a crust for this recipe?

Yes, you can make (or purchase) a crust for the top, bottom, or both. It just depends if you’d like a more crust-forward recipe or more fillings.

Can I make this in a different dish?

If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can use a 9×13 casserole dish, pie dish, or a 9-inch cake or springform pan.

How do I know when my chicken pot pie is done?

The best way to tell if chicken pot pie is ready to eat is if the biscuits (or crust) appear golden brown.

Crustless Chicken Pot Pie (with Biscuits)

Course Dinner Recipes, Dutch Oven Recipes, Main Course

Cuisine American

Keyword cheap dinner, comfort food, Dutch Oven, easy dinner

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 45

Total Time 1

Servings servings

Calories 284kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Dutch Oven Casserole (Skillet)

Ingredients

3 cups shredded cooked chicken from rotisserie chicken or 2-3 boneless skinless chicken breasts, poached
3 cups chicken broth
4 tablespoons butter
1 yellow onion finely chopped
1 cup celery finely chopped (about 3 stalks)
1 cup carrots finely chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
2 teaspoons black pepper
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon rubbed sage dried
⅓ cup flour
½ cup half and half
1 chicken bouillon cube
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1 cup frozen peas
1 can premade biscuits any kind

Instructions

Poach the Chicen

If you are using a rotisserie chicken or precooked chicken, skip this step.
Add the uncooked chicken breast to a large pot. Season with 1 tsp of salt, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tsp peppercorns, 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, and 1 sliced onion.
To the pot, add enough cool water to cover the chicken by an inch or so.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. As soon as the water comes to a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer.
Begin checking the chicken after 8 minutes. Chicken is done when an instant-read thermometer registers 165°F. Chicken will typically finish cooking in 10 to 14 minutes depending on the thickness.
Transfer the chicken to a cutting board. Shred using forks.

Make the Pot Pie Filling

Melt the butter in an oven-proof 12-inch skillet (I used a cast iron casserole) over medium-high heat. Add the onions and saute just until softened (about 3 minutes). Then, add the celery and carrots and saute for another 5 minutes.
Add the black pepper, garlic, rosemary, and sage to the skillet and stir to coat. Cook for one more minute.
To make the Roux: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the flour a little at a time and stir until well combined. Be careful not to let the flour burn. The mixture should be a paste-like consistency.
Add the chicken broth in small splashes, stirring all the while. Next, add the half and half in the same manner, stirring constantly. The sauce should be a thick, gravy-like consistency.
Next, add the bouillon cube, soy sauce, and shredded chicken. Stir to mix well. Gently simmer (on low to medium heat) until the bouillon cube melts and all ingredients are well combined.
Add the frozen peas and stir well. Remove from heat.
Place 3-4 uncooked biscuits on top of the mixture. Bake (uncovered) per the biscuit recipe instructions, or until the biscuits are golden brown and cooked through. If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13 casserole dish and place the biscuits on top.
Brush with melted butter over the top of each biscuit just before serving.

Nutrition

The post Crustless Chicken Pot Pie appeared first on Southern Cravings.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Anna Kate — Thu, 02 Jun 2022 19:33:20 +0000

Air fryer chicken nuggets are always delicious and cooked to the perfect crispiness! Made in just 20 minutes, this is the perfect weeknight meal for picky eaters. Learn how to make frozen chicken nuggets into a delicious, crispy snack. No more soggy breading!

Whether you are making these from scratch or pulling them out of the freezer, this method is the easiest way to make crispy chicken nuggets fast! This recipe works with Tyson Dino nuggets, Yummy Dino Buddies, homemade nuggets, regular chicken nuggets, and other fun-shaped chicken nuggets.

An air fryer cooks in about half the time of an oven. They cut down the cook time drastically! While your oven takes about 10 minutes to preheat, the air fryer is already halfway done with cooking. I never thought I would need another appliance, but I am hooked!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets Recipe

We all need those easy recipes that don’t require a lot of preparation. Sometimes, it’s all about convenience and getting dinner on the table quickly during those busy weeknights.

I mean, you can make homemade chicken nuggets. But, if you are in a pinch for time, pre-breaded, frozen nuggets are the ultimate time saver.

Plus, they aren’t just for kids anymore. You can make these early in the week to top salads or as a quick lunch.

More reasons why I love them:

Feeds picky eaters: Even the pickiest of eaters will latch onto a plate of crispy nuggets. If you use the fun-shaped nuggets, you get a bonus point!
Use any brand: This method works with Tyson chicken nuggets, Dino Nuggets, Perdue, Yummy Dino Buddies, dinosaur nuggets, and more.
Fast and Easy: You can cook a whole bag of chicken nuggets from frozen to done in about 20 minutes. It takes about 10 minutes to preheat an oven, so using an air fryer is a faster cooking method.
No frying: Since air frying doesn’t require oil, it’s definitely a healthier option than deep frying. Plus, using a deep fryer just makes an absolute mess!
Crispy: These come out perfectly every time. No soggy breading or falling apart. Way better than any microwave chicken nuggets.
Saves Money: The deep fry method requires a lot of extra oil, extra costs, and extra hassle. Using the air fryer is a much better way to enjoy nuggets and requires less time and effort.

Best Sauce for Chicken Nuggets

There are so many different options and combinations for dipping! Here is a list of our favorite sauces.

Ranch
Ketchup
BBQ sauce – traditional or tangy!
Honey mustard
Buffalo sauce
French fry sauce
Other leftover fast food sauces

Best Frozen Chicken Nugget Brands

This recipe isn’t brand-specific, so use any brand you like. If you have kids, fun-shaped dinosaur chicken nuggets, smiley faces, letter shapes and others are great ways to make meal time fun.

Because this is a processed-food, look for brands that use real white meat chicken and without a lot of fillers added. You can also use veggie nuggets for a plant-based option.

Like I mentioned before, this recipe isn’t the healthiest option, but it’s better than swinging through a drive-thru window. If you have dietary restrictions, obviously you should honor those restrictions. Otherwise, look at this as an easy meal that’s a great way to feed the kids fast – not a weekly staple.

Here are some of the different brands I’ve tested and enjoy using this method:

Tyson
Perdue
Trader Joe’s
Banquette

How to Cook Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Nuggets

This is not a high-brow recipe by any stretch. But, it’s a simple and quick meal that doesn’t require much time or effort.

What you need to make this:

Any brand (or shape) of frozen chicken nuggets. Look for real chicken, high quality nuggets!
Air fryer: I love my Ninja Foodi. We use this appliance at least three times per week.
Tongs
Pot holders
Favorite dipping sauce

All you need to do is spray the air fryer tray or basket with cooking spray. Add the nuggets to the basket and cook at 390 degrees for 20 minutes, tossing halfway through. Don’t forget to shake the basket or flip the nuggets half way through so they get crispy on all sides.

Depending on the air fryer you have, you may need to work in batches to prepare a whole bag of chicken nuggets.

How Long to Cook Chicken Nuggets in the Air Fryer

Air fry frozen nuggets at 390 degrees for 20 minutes, tossing halfway through.

Most store bought chicken nuggets are already fully cooked, but should reach 165 degrees internally for safe eating. Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to be sure.

After they are done cooking, allow them to rest for a minute or so to avoid burning little hands. This also allows the exterior to crisp up a bit more. Store any leftovers in an airtight container.

Best Way to Reheat Chicken Nuggets

If you thought the air fryer was only for cooking, think again! I love to use an air fryer for reheating pizza and other foods that should stay crispy!

This is a great method for reheating fast food nuggets, too. Reheat chicken nuggets from McDonald’s, Chick-Fil-A, Wendy’s, or other fast food restaurants.

To reheat chicken nuggets, add them to the air fryer basket and heat for about 5 minutes at 350F degrees until they are crispy and warmed through.

What to serve with Chicken Nuggets

Another thing I love about this recipe is that you can serve it with your favorite side dish or as a complete meal on its own. Here are some other side dishes to try:

Steamed vegetables
Air Fryer French Fries, curly fries, sweet potato fries
Potato dishes

Tips for the Best Chicken Nuggets

Know your air fryer: Just like every oven is different, the same goes for every air fryer. My model is likely different from yours. Be sure to follow the manual and instructions for your air fryer. Use cooking time as a reference point.
Don’t preheat: There’s no need to preheat the air fryer. Just add the nuggets to the basket and turn the unit on.
Don’t thaw: Chicken nuggets, french fries, pizza rolls, and other convenience foods can be cooked frozen.
Don’t overcrowd: Overcrowding will leave you with chicken nuggets that are unevenly cooked and possibly soggy. For the best results, add the nuggets in a single layer with a little space around for the hot air to circulate for the crispiest nuggets!

Do you need to preheat an air fryer?

You do not need to preheat an air fryer unless the instructions say to do so. Because the air fryer is much smaller than a conventional oven, the appliance heats up much faster than a regular oven. Plus, the heating element is closer to the food.

How do you cook frozen raw chicken nuggets in an air fryer?

To cook frozen, raw chicken nuggets, follow the steps in the recipe card below. Air Fry the nuggets for 8-10 minutes at 390, flipping halfway through. Take the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure the nuggets reach 165 degrees F.

How do you make frozen chicken nuggets crispy?

The secret to crispy nuggets is the air fryer! Allowing plenty of room for the hot air to flow around the nuggets will give them a crispy exterior.

Why are my chicken nuggets soggy?

If your chicken nuggets are soggy, it’s likely because the air fryer basket was overcrowded or the nuggets need to continue cooking. Try removing some of the nuggets so the hot air can better circulate. Additionally, continue cooking for another 5 minutes to crisp up the exterior of the nuggets.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes:

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets

Course Air Fryer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, Chicken, chicken nuggets, picky eaters

Cook Time 20

Total Time 20

Servings nuggets

Calories 10kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

Frozen Chicken Nuggets about 5 pieces per serving
Cooking Spray

Instructions

Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray.
Add nuggets (may need to work in batches for whole bag).
Cook at 390 for 20 minutes, shaking basket halfway through.

Notes

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for the Best Chicken Nuggets

Know your air fryer: Just like every oven is different, the same goes for every air fryer. My model is likely different from yours. Be sure to follow the manual and instructions for your air fryer. Use cooking time as a reference point.
Don’t preheat: There’s no need to preheat the air fryer. Just add the nuggets to the basket and turn the unit on.
Don’t thaw: Chicken nuggets, french fries, pizza rolls, and other convenience foods can be cooked frozen.
Don’t overcrowd: Overcrowding will leave you with chicken nuggets that are unevenly cooked and possibly soggy. For the best results, add the nuggets in a single layer with a little space around for the hot air to circulate for the crispiest nuggets!

Nutrition

The post How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Anna Kate — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:13:17 +0000

Toss them with Frank’s red hot buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. These can be made in under 30 minutes!

Continue reading for recipe details, cooking tips, reheating/storing info, and more.

These make a great appetizer for gamedays! Serve these with other delicious finger foods like a charcuterie board, spinach and artichoke dip, and nachos for an awesome spread!

There’s something about tangy buffalo wings that get me every time! Instead of picking these up at a restaurant, recreate these delicious chicken wings at home and save some money.

Air Fryer Wings

This recipe is similar to my oven baked chicken wings recipe. But, instead of baking, you are air frying.

An air fryer is like a small convection oven that cooks all kinds of foods evenly and perfectly done every time. This is the air fryer model I use and I absolutely love it! We use ours several times a week. It’s definitely worth the investment.

The thing I love the most about air-frying foods is that there is no wet batter, breading, or any of the mess and complications you get when deep frying. Just a little seasoning and olive oil and you can have restaurant-quality, food in minutes.

If you are looking for another great chicken dish in the air fryer, try out these air fryer chicken breasts for a lean entrée!

The Best Hot Wings Recipe

The cooking time will vary slightly depending on the size of your chicken wings. Be aware that you may need to adjust your cooking time accordingly.

Recipe Notes to Remember

This recipe uses fresh, thawed, uncooked chicken wings. See below for information on using pre-cooked chicken wings.
Frank’s Hot Sauce is a crowd favorite, but you can use any type of sauce you like, if preferred.
Air fryer units and chicken wing sizes vary across the board. Keep this is mind when preparing this recipe.
Find my air fryer unit here.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the inside of the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

Step 1: Apply Chicken Dry Rub

Add the thawed chicken wings to a mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat. Then, mix together the garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the mixture onto the chicken, and rub on to each wing so that they are well-coated with the seasoning.

Step 2: Air Fry the Wings

Place the wings in the basket of the air fryer (it’s ok if they overlap). Set the unit to 400F for 25 minutes, tossing every 5 minutes. Tossing at frequent intervals helps each piece of chicken to cook and crisp evenly.

Step 3: Toss with buffalo sauce

While the chicken cooks, whisk together the hot sauce, butter, and garlic powder in a large bowl.

Make sure the bowl is large enough for the wings to be added when they are cooked. After the wings are cooked and read 165F degrees internally, add to the large bowl of sauce, toss, and serve!

How long to air fry chicken wings at 400

Depending on the size of the chicken wings and your air fryer unit, cooking times may vary. This recipe has been tested at 20-25 minute cooking time at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Because of this, it’s important not to overfill your air fryer and to toss the chicken wings frequently throughout the cooking process.

How to Make Buffalo Sauce

The buffalo sauce makes these wings! This is a simple combination of Frank’s Red Hot Sauce, butter, and a little garlic powder.

While the wings are cooking in the air fryer, whisk together the ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Toss in the cooked wings and stir to coat. If your mixing bowl has a lid, even better! Pop the lid on and shake up the wings until they are coated and saucy.

Recipe Variations

Use pre-cooked chicken.

Pre-cooked chicken nuggets, tenders, and wings are a great option to keep in your freezer. It can be prepped quickly on a busy night and can be served with veggies or over a quick salad.

To make this recipe with pre-cooked chicken, follow the directions on the package of pre-cooked chicken for a convection (or toaster) oven, then toss with the sauce and serve with a side dish or dipping sauces. You may need to rotate the chicken pieces every so often to achieve even cooking.

Try a variety of sauces.

Many favorite wing restaurants also sell their own sauces. Some are even in the grocery store. Add a few other sauces to your grocery list and experiment with different flavors.

Or, skip the sauce altogether and use this homemade dry rub for simple chicken wings.

What to serve with chicken wings

Baked sweet potato or regular baked potato
Side salad
Roasted asparagus
Sautéed green beans
Pasta salad
Caprese salad

Tips for reheating, leftovers, and storing

To reheat prepared chicken wings, place them in the air fryer at 375 for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
Use the leftover chicken wings to top salads or reheat in the air fryer.

FAQ: Air Fryer Buffalo Wings

How long should I put buffalo wings in the air fryer?

At 400 degrees, buffalo wings should be cooked for about 20-25 minutes depending on their size.

Do you need breading for air fryer?

The beauty of the air fryer is that no breading or batter is required.

Can I use a wet batter in an air fryer?

No, wet batter is not recommended for the air fryer.

Can you put raw chicken in air fryer?

Yes, any raw meats can be thoroughly cooked in the air fryer.

Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe

Learn how to make buffalo chicken wings in the air fryer! Tangy and crispy but without the breading, deep-frying, or mess to clean up afterward. Air fryer chicken wings give you crispy skin on the outside while still juicy and tender on the inside. Toss them with Frank's red hot buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping. These can be made in under 30 minutes!

Course Appetizer Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword appetizers, buffalo wings, Chicken, Chicken Wings, finger foods, Game day food

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 25

Total Time 35

Servings people

Calories 368kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Air Fryer

Ingredients

For the Wings:

2 ½ pounds chicken wings thawed and uncooked; about 20 wings
1 tablespoon garlic powder
olive oil for drizzling
kosher salt
black pepper

Buffalo Wing Sauce Ingredients:

1 cup Frank’s RedHot® Original Cayenne Pepper Hot Sauce
½ cup butter unsalted and melted
1 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes.
While the air fryer is preheating, combine garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
To a large mixing bowl, add the chicken wings and drizzle with olive oil. Toss until lightly coated.
Then, sprinkle the dry rub mixture onto the chicken and rub on to each wing so that they are well-coated with seasoning.
Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray. Add wings to air fryer basket, being careful not to over-fill.
Air fry at 400°F degrees for 25 to 30 minutes, shaking the basket or tossing wings with tongs every 5 minutes during cooking. The wings are cooked through when an internal meat thermometer reads 165°F.
While the wings are cooking, mix the butter, hot sauce, and garlic powder in a bowl large enough to accommodate the wings. Add cooked wings and toss to coat.*
Serve immediately.

Notes

Cook in batches, if needed, depending on the size of your air fryer.
Instead of coating the wings with sauce, serve the wings plain with the sauce on the side for dipping.
Experiment with different sauces and dry rubs for your own take on these wings!

Nutrition

The post Air Fryer Buffalo Wings Recipe appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Anna Kate — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 17:24:03 +0000

Skinless, boneless chicken breast and the seasoning of your choice are all you need for simple and juicy air fryer chicken breast. This is a fast and protein-filled solution to meal prep or a weeknight dinner – made in 20 minutes.

Chicken breast gets such a bad rap, right? The idea of juicy, white chicken breast over a salad gives us all the warm, healthy fuzzies, but it rarely turns out that way.

Instead, we endure the dried-out version of our meal prep and make-ahead dinner dreams. No matter how much you dip, sauce, or serve, chicken breast is usually just plain ole miserable.

If you’re like us, you’ve tried grilling, baking, poaching…and never quite dialed it in. Before you give up and throw in the towel, try this Air Fryer Chicken Breast. This is on a regular rotation in our home and soon it will be for you, too.

Just like baked chicken breast, this is a great base for so many dishes. Use this as pre-cooked chicken for chicken noodle soup, chicken divan, or top salads and pasta dishes. This would even work for a healthier version of chicken parmesan.

Want more chicken recipes? Try Balsamic Chicken Breasts or Dutch Oven Roasted Chicken

Since this version of air fryer chicken isn’t breaded, it’s not actually fried. Which means there’s no oil, grease, or mess to clean up afterward. Depending on the seasonings you choose, it’s mostly a “clean eating” recipe.

Boneless Skinless Air Fryer Chicken Breast

The great thing about this recipe is that you can use your favorite seasoning, brine, or marinade. Plus, the flavors can be switched up whenever variation is needed, so there’s no need to suffer through plain-jane chicken anymore!

The flavor and texture are similar to grilled chicken but without the charred flavor. The result of this air fryer version is a slightly crisp outside with a smooth, white, tender texture on the inside. It’s easy, simple, and a practical recipe to keep handy.

How to Cook Chicken in an Air Fryer

In a nutshell, here’s how to air fry chicken:

Marinate or season the chicken accordingly.
After the chicken has marinated, transfer the meat to the basket of your air fryer.
Set to temp and cook!

With any chicken recipe, a marinade or seasoning is a must. With this recipe, you can use your favorite marinade or seasoning. I’ve listed a couple of ideas (and products) I’ve used below to make this recipe even more fool-proof.

Ingredients and tools for the best air fryer baked chicken recipe:

Air Fryer (I like my Ninja Foodi)
Tongs
Meat thermometer
Chicken Breast
Seasoning or marinade of your choice (see suggestions below)

Why make this in an air fryer?

If you’re here, you’re already well aware of the qualms with chicken breasts. Chicken breast is known to be dry and bland, which is why an air fryer is a terrific option for preparing chicken.

Air fryers work as small, convection ovens. These appliances use a heating element and a fan to circulate the air around the food, creating an evenly cooked result. The heating element is directly above the food, so it will get a little color, too.

In turn, meats prepared in air fryers are more tender and juicy than from the grill or a conventional oven.

How to Marinate Chicken Breast

Here are a few wet and dry flavoring ideas for this recipe. Place the chicken breast in a zip-top bag, add the seasoning or marinade and refrigerate until you are ready to cook.

Simple Chicken Marinade

Marinating prevents the meat from drying out and gives it flavor. The same can be achieved with a wet brine. For the simplicity of this recipe, I recommend sticking to a marinade and/or a dry seasoning.

Here are a few really great marinade ideas with suggested times. Most of these are premade and store-bought.

Italian dressing. An old reliable option for tender chicken. The oils and vinegars give it a juicy tang in flavor. Marinate for at least 30 minutes before cooking, or for up to 3 days.
Dale’s Seasoning. This is a liquid marinade that’s a favorite! It’s great on steaks and pork chops, too. Marinate for no more than 15-20 minutes.
Lawry’s Bottled Marinades. This brand has many varieties, so pick a flavor that compliments the rest of your meal.

Chicken Seasoning Ideas

These are dry seasonings (also called dry rubs). There’s no “marinating” time for these. Feel free to season ahead of time for slightly more flavor. Seasoning right before they hit the air fryer will still yield a flavorful result.

Homemade dry rub. This is my own recipe that I use for chicken wings, brisket, pork chops, or any other grilling meat. It’s a great multi-purpose option.
Taco seasoning. A great idea for Mexican flare. Then, shred the chicken and add to tacos or nachos.
Salt and pepper. A no-fail classic! This is a great option if you are preparing the chicken to be added to a casserole, like Chicken Divan, or a soup.
Seasoned salt. Lawry’s Seasoned Salt is a popular choice. Be cautious with the amount added to the chicken and the salt content.
Italian seasoning. Usually a combination of dried oregano, parsley, and marjoram, these dried herbs provide a lot of flavor. A great option for a non-breaded chicken parmesan.

How long to cook chicken breast in an air fryer

The cooking time depends on the size of the chicken breast and the air fryer unit. Generally, an 8-ounce chicken breast takes about 20 minutes to cook at 385F in the air fryer.

Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken

Spacing the chicken. Make sure the chicken breasts are not overlapping in the air fryer. Depending on the size of the unit and chicken, most air fryers can hold 2-4 breasts at a time.
Use a meat thermometer. A meat thermometer is key to meat that’s cooked perfectly to temperature. Cutting directly into the meat to check for doneness isn’t a sure-fire method and can cause the meat to dry out further.
Timing. Depending on the size of the chicken and your unit, it may cook faster or slower than others. A good gauge in temp increase: For my unit, the temperature increases 15 degrees for every five minutes after flipping.
Resting. Just like with most meats, chicken regains its moisture when it rests after cooking. Allow to rest for about 5 minutes before serving or slicing.
Flavoring. Adding flavoring to the chicken is key. While brining is a great method for juicy grilled, baked, or smoked chicken, it’s not necessary for this recipe. No brining necessary!

Substitutions, reheating, and storage

Reheating: To reheat the chicken, slice or keep whole and microwave at 30 second intervals until warm.
Storing: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Make several pieces, shred, and freeze to easily add to soups, casseroles, or pasta dishes.

More Air Fryer Recipes

See all air fryer recipes here.

Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast

Course Dinner Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword air fryer, Chicken, Chicken recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 20

Resting Time 5

Total Time 30

Servings serving

Calories 408kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

1, 8- ounce chicken breast boneless and skinless
Marinade OR 1-3 tablespoons of seasoning see notes for suggestions*

Instructions

Season or marinate chicken according to marinade directions. (use 1-3 tablespoons for dry seasoning)
Turn the unit on to the air fry setting. Preheat the air fryer to 385F for 5 minutes.
Place the chicken in the air fryer basket. Close the lid and cook for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, flip the chicken and cook for another 5-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reads 165F with a meat thermometer.*
Remove from the air fryer basket and allow to rest for at least 3 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

Serve this with:

Substitutions, reheating, and storage

Reheating: To reheat the chicken, slice or keep whole and microwave at 30 second intervals until warm.
Storing: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Make several pieces, shred, and freeze to easily add to soups, casseroles, or pasta dishes.

Marinade and Seasoning Suggestions:

Italian dressing
Dale’s Seasoning
Lawry’s bottled marinade
Homemade dry rub
Taco seasoning
Salt and pepper
Seasoned salt
Italian seasoning

Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken

Spacing the chicken. Make sure the chicken breasts are not overlapping in the air fryer. Depending on the size of the unit and chicken, most air fryers can hold 2-4 breasts at a time.
Use a meat thermometer. A meat thermometer is key to meat that’s cooked perfectly to temperature. Cutting directly into the meat to check for doneness isn’t a sure-fire method and can cause the meat to dry out further.
Timing. Depending on the size of the chicken and your unit, it may cook faster or slower than others. A good gauge in temp increase: For my unit, the temperature increases 15 degrees for every five minutes after flipping.
Resting. Just like with most meats, chicken regains its moisture when it rests after cooking. Allow to rest for about 5 minutes before serving or slicing.
Flavoring. Adding flavoring to the chicken is key. While brining is a great method for juicy grilled, baked, or smoked chicken, it’s not necessary for this recipe. No brining necessary!

Nutrition

The post Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Breast appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Sticky, Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Wings

Anna Kate — Thu, 14 May 2020 18:41:35 +0000

Baked instead of fried, these chicken wings are tender on the inside and covered with perfectly sticky BBQ sauce on the outside. Nothing quite says game-day like these oven-baked wings!

Serve these up with other game-day snacks like nachos, pasta salad, or other appetizers!

About this recipe

The great thing about this recipe is that there are no rules! That’s right, you can marinate them in any sauce that strikes your fancy. For this recipe, I used the Caribbean Jerk marinade I grabbed from Kroger’s sauces section.

I dumped the frozen wings in a bowl, tossed them with the marinade, and let them do their thang until we were ready to cook. These always turn out perfectly done each and every time we make them.

You can also switch up the marinade to anything you like, including a dry rub.

Best Tools for this recipe

Baking sheet with a fitting rack – We always line a baking sheet with foil, and use the baking rack that came with the sheet. The baking rack allows air to circulate around the food instead of one side at a time. If you don’t have a baking rack and only a baking sheet, these will still be finger-licking good!
Meat thermometer – Ideal for making sure your chicken is cooked to the appropriate temperature.
Silicone Brush – Silicone brushes are best for basting the wings to get that sticky sauce action. I prefer silicone as they seem to come clean much easier than brushes with bristles.

I prefer using the silicone brushes over brushes with bristles. I think they are more sanitary and do not hold bacteria.

Steps for Making the Wings

Marinate the wings in a sauce or rub of your choice for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 day.
Line a baking sheet with foil and place the accompanying baking rack inside the baking sheet. Spray with cooking spray.
Place wings on the rack and inside of a preheated 400F degree oven for 20 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the marinade from the chicken.
After 20 minutes, remove from the oven and baste with the reserved marinade using a silicone brush on both sides. Flip chicken so the underside is now facing up. Discard all remaining marinade.
Place back in the oven and continue cooking for another 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F degrees.
After the chicken is done cooking, you can continue basting with fresh BBQ sauce of your choice, or serve and allow others to sauce and season their own wings.

Tip: Don’t continue to cook them much past the 40-minute mark – just until the exterior of the wings begin to caramelize.

Tips for sticky wings

The biggest tip for sticky chicken wings is using a sauce with sugar…which almost every sauce would have that included in the ingredients already.

Basting the wings halfway through the cooking process with the reserved helps big time with the stickiness.

It’s still safe to use the reserved marinade at this point because you will continue the cooking process. BUT, please make sure to discard the remaining marinade after this step. It is never safe to reuse any marinade – ever.

FAQ for Sticky Chicken Wings

At what temperature are chicken wings done?

When a meat thermometer reads 165F degrees internally.

What can I serve with wings?

Whatever you want! Wings go well with other gameday snacks (nachos, pretzels, chips, fries, etc.) or a side salad works too! We like to enjoy these with a cold beer!

How long can you marinate chicken wings?

There’s no marinating time limit, but the flavors will become more intense the longer meat marinates.
**I recommend at least 2-3 hours for the best flavor, but no less than 30 minutes.

Do you marinate chicken wings?

Yes! You can use a wet marinade (like a sauce) or a dry rub to infuse flavor into the chicken wings.

Here are some ideas for marinade sauces:
– Italian dressing
– Caribbean Jerk
– BBQ sauce

How do you prepare wings?

I place all of the wings in a bowl and cover with marinade.
– If they are frozen, you can allow them to thaw on the counter for no more than 4 hours (or until thawed) to avoid any funky bacteria. Once thawed, place back in the fridge until ready to cook.
– If they are thawed, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or lid and place back in the fridge until you are ready to cook.

How many wings should I order per person?

I always estimate 6-8 pieces per person for a meal and 3-5 pieces for snacking.

BBQ Baked Chicken Wings

Baked instead of fried, these chicken wings are tender on the inside and covered with perfectly sticky BBQ sauce on the outside. Nothing quite says gameday like these oven-baked wings!

Course Appetizers

Cuisine American

Keyword Chicken Wings, Game day food, Wings

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 40

Marinade Time 30

Total Time 1 15

Servings servings

Calories 524kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

4 pounds of frozen or fresh chicken wings
Marinade or rub of your choice

Marinade Ideas:

Italian dressing
Dry Rubs
Caribbean Jerk

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400F degrees.
Marinade the wings in a sauce or rub of your choice for at least 30 minutes or up to 1 day.
Line a baking sheet with foil and place the accompanying baking rack inside the baking sheet. Spray with foil.
Place wings on the rack and inside of a preheated 400F degree oven for 20 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the marinade from the chicken.
After 20 minutes, remove from the oven and baste with the reserved marinade using a silicone brush on both sides. Flip chicken so the underside is now facing up. Discard all remaining marinade.
Place back in the oven and continue cooking for another 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165F degrees.
After the chicken is done cooking, you can continue basting with fresh BBQ sauce of your choice, or serve and allow others to sauce and season their own wings.

Notes

Please read the entire post for details, tips, and more!

Nutrition

The post Sticky, Oven Baked BBQ Chicken Wings appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Chicken Divan Casserole with Homemade Sauce

Anna Kate — Thu, 27 Feb 2020 15:55:01 +0000

This Chicken Divan Casserole is made with tender chicken and broccoli in a rich and creamy sauce. This is our go-to for weeknight dinners, served over rice or noodles. Makes great leftovers and NO “cream of…” soup!

There’s something about the goopy “cream of…” canned soup that just irks me. BUT! I’ve included a simple tutorial to make your own condensed cream of mushroom soup, instead.

This recipe isn’t exactly for the calorie counters: It does include cheese, butter and milk to make the sauce, but it’s worth the extra calories for sure!

Ingredients for Chicken Divan:

Chicken: You can use leftover chicken from my oven roasted chicken recipe, pick up a pre-made rotisserie chicken from the deli, or poached chicken. You can use chopped or shredded. It’s a matter of preference.
Broccoli: This recipe uses steamed, frozen broccoli. Make sure to drain well and allow to dry after steaming. Frozen broccoli does release some water, but the casserole will not be watery or affect the taste. If preferred, you can use fresh, steamed broccoli.
Sauce: It’s basically a Mornay sauce, which is a roux, with milk, broth and white cheddar cheese. It’s thick, rich and is the base for many casseroles.
Mushrooms: Since the traditional recipes call for cream of mushroom soup, I chop up fresh mushrooms and add them in separately from the sauce. It all gets mixed in anyway!
Cheese: You can use yellow cheddar or white cheddar. The taste is about the same. This recipe uses white cheddar, with a mix sprinkled of yellow and white cheddar sprinkled on top.
Topping: I use Pepperidge Farm Stuffing mix for the breadcrumbs. While we don’t use this product for making stuffing or dressing, this is great for breadcrumbs! If you have homemade breadcrumbs, you can use those too.

How to Make Chicken Divan Casserole

First, shred or chop your precooked chicken and place in the bottom of a greased 9 x 13 inch casserole dish.
Top the chicken with broccoli and sauteed mushrooms.
Make the roux, add in cheese and simmer until it becomes a thick cheese sauce.
Pour over the chicken, broccoli and mushrooms.
Top with cheese, then breadcrumbs.
Bake and enjoy!

Make Ahead Instructions:

This is a great recipe to make ahead of time. Just assemble all the way up to the breadcrumb topping, then cover and refrigerate.

About 30 minutes before you are ready to bake, set the casserole out to come to room temperature. Add the breadcrumbs, then bake per the recipe.

What does Chicken Divan mean?

This recipe was named after the Divan Parisien Restaurant in the New York City Chatham Hotel where it was the signature dish almost 100 years ago!

How do you reheat Chicken Divan?

I love a good recipe that reheats easily! The topping won’t be as crisp, but all of the flavors will still be just as delicious!

Preheat your oven to 350F degrees and bake the leftovers in the casserole dish, uncovered, for about 30 minutes or until warmed through.

This is also great stuffed inside a crispy baked potato, or served over mashed potatoes.

Chicken Divan Casserole with Homemade Sauce

Course Dinner Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword casserole, comfort food

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 35

Total Time 55

Servings servings

Calories 235kcal

Author Anna Kate

Equipment

Ingredients

For the Sauce:

1 tablespoon butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
½ cup milk
½ cup chicken broth
2 cups cheddar cheese freshly grated, plus more for topping
salt and pepper to taste

For the Casserole:

3 cups chicken shredded (about 2 breasts)
2 cups broccoli florets chopped bite-sized
12 ounces baby bella mushrooms chopped
1 clove garlic minced
1 tablespoon butter

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

1 tablespoon butter melted
½ cup Pepperidge Farm Stuffing Mix

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F. Coat a 9×13 baking dish with nonstick spray and set aside.

Prep the casserole ingredients:

Place chicken and broccoli into the prepared dish.
In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add mushrooms. Saute until tender and soft. Add on top of the chicken and broccoli.

Make the sauce:

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter and melt over medium heat. Then, add in 1 tablespoon of flour at a time, whisking constantly so the butter and flour does not burn.
As the butter and flour becomes a paste, stir in milk. As it begins to thicken, add in chicken broth and continue stirring.
Add in 2 cups of cheddar cheese. Continue to stir until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.

Assemble the casserole:

Pour the sauce mixture evenly on top of the chicken, broccoli and mushrooms.
Sprinkle the cheese evenly on top.
Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter and stir in the breadcrumbs. Evenly sprinkle the breadcrumbs on top of the cheese layer.
Bake for 35 minutes, uncovered, until golden on top. Serve warm over rice or pasta.

Notes

Please read the entire post for details, tips, and more!

Nutrition

The post Chicken Divan Casserole with Homemade Sauce appeared first on Southern Cravings.

One-Skillet Balsamic Chicken Breasts

Anna Kate — Tue, 04 Feb 2020 12:35:24 +0000

This baked balsamic chicken breasts recipe is the answer to a date night in or a delicious weeknight meal for two. Tender and juicy, this meal is a one pan wonder made in just 30 minutes.

I love recipes that do double-duty. This recipe would be great for a date night in or a great weeknight dinner. It’s protein and a side dish all in one pan…restaurant worthy for a pinch of the price!

This recipe has such great flavor: tangy balsamic vinegar, whole grain mustard, then with the softness of rosemary. Making this in the cast iron skillet gives the chicken additional flavor and easy to pop in the oven to finish off the dish.

You can always add a simple spinach salad, or another vegetable like roasted asparagus or sauteed green beans.

How to Make Balsamic Chicken Breast

1. Marinate the chicken with balsamic vinegar, mustard, honey, and garlic for at least 20 minutes or up to 1 hour.

TIP: Make the marinade in the morning before you leave for work, then pour over the chicken as you prep the veggies that evening.

2. Chop red potatoes into quarters – about bite size – and add them to the bowl with olive oil and seasoning.
3. Sear the chicken in a cast iron skillet, add potatoes, then roast in the oven.
4. Serve the chicken and potatoes with the pan drippings.

How long does it take to bake a chicken breast?

Generally, it takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on the size of the chicken breasts and the oven temperature. Use a meat thermometer to know for sure! The internal temperature of a fully cooked chicken breast will read at 165F degrees.

Balsamic Chicken Breasts

This baked balsamic chicken breasts recipe is the answer to a date night in or a delicious weeknight meal. Tender and juicy, this meal is a one pan wonder made in just 30 minutes.

Course Dinner Recipes

Cuisine American

Keyword balsamic vinegar, Chicken, dinner

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 20

Marinate 20

Total Time 50

Servings people

Calories 353kcal

Author Anna Kate

Ingredients

1 pound chicken breasts boneless and skinless
1 yellow onion chopped
½ cup balsamic vinegar
1 ½ tablespoons whole grain mustard
3 cloves garlic minced
5 new potatoes cut into bite-size pieces
2 rosemary sprigs plus 1 tablespoon chopped
olive oil
kosher salt
black pepper

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade:

Place the uncooked chicken breast in a casserole dish and season generously with salt and pepper.
In a measuring cup or small mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, mustard, and garlic. Whisk until combined.
Pour mixture over chicken and turn until fully coated. Marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to 1 hour.

Prepare the Ingredients:

Wash and dice new potoatoes into bite-sized pieces (about 1 inch in diameter), and add toa medium-sized mixing bowl.
Add chopped onion and chopped rosemary to the same bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Stir to combine and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

Preheat oven to 425 degrees fahrenheit.
Add olive oil to a 10-inch cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot sear the chicken on both sides – about 2 minutes per side.
Add the potatoes, onion, rosemary to the skillet of chicken and spread evenly around the skillet. Add the remaining sprigs of rosemary on top of chicken.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake until potatoes are tender and chicken is cooked through – about 20 minutes. (uncovered)
Serve the chicken and potatoes with pan drippings.

Nutrition

The post One-Skillet Balsamic Chicken Breasts appeared first on Southern Cravings.

Dutch Oven Roasted Chicken

Anna Kate — Wed, 09 Jan 2019 16:12:04 +0000

There’s nothing more traditional than a Sunday dinner of juicy Dutch Oven Roasted Chicken. Juicy, tender and flavors of lemon, rosemary and thyme make this a meal you can re-purpose all week.

My favorite part about this recipe is that the leftovers will carry you throughout the week on topped on a salad, paired with sides or used in a soup. Don’t forget to save the bones for chicken stock!

How to Make Dutch Oven Roasted Chicken

Instead of a roasting pan, I use a heavy dutch-oven pot for cooking. You can even use this same recipe for a Thanksgiving turkey!

To begin: Remove the giblet bag from inside of the chicken. Rinse and pat the chicken dry.

Smear the butter underneath the skin of the chicken.
Place the fresh herbs underneath the skin as well.
Squeeze both halves of the lemon over the chicken and place inside the cavity.
Season with salt and pepper. If desired, place an onion, carrots, celery and/or potatoes inside and around the bird. Arrange remaining herbs around the chicken.

TIP: In order to keep your chicken moist while cooking, baste regularly! During the cooking process, pull the chicken out of the oven and fill your baster with juices from the bottom of the pan and carefully baste them onto the chicken.

How to Smear Butter Underneath the Skin

Gently lift up the skin and place the butter inside, pushing the butter down and all over the chicken skin from the outside as well.
Room temperature butter works best for this step.

How do I make my chicken skin crispy?

Two words: Butter & Basting.

To get the best and crispiest chicken skin, lots of butter is required. By smearing the butter underneath the skin of the chicken, you will get beautifully browned and crispy outer skin. I can’t even describe the amount of flavor this gives the entire recipe.

Oven-Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Herbs

There’s nothing more delicious or more traditional than a Sunday dinner of juicy Oven-Roasted Chicken. This recipe is easily paired with any side and uses the same recipe as your Thanksgiving Turkey!

Keyword Chicken, Dutch Oven, Roast

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 3

Total Time 3 15

Servings Servings

Calories 385kcal

Author Anna Kate

Ingredients

4 tablespoons butter softened
4 pound chicken whole
1 lemon halved and seeded
1 clove garlic minced
sage fresh sprigs
rosemary fresh sprigs
salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°.
Mix room temp butter and garlic in a small bowl. Smear the butter with your hands all over the bird and underneath the skin. Put the chicken breast side up in a Dutch Oven that will accommodate it with room to spare.
Carefully, slide herbs underneath the skin. Put the remaining herbs and onion halves inside the cavity.
Squeeze out both lemon halves over the bird and place inside cavity. Season with salt and pepper.
Roast the chicken, basting every 20 minutes in the oven for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165. The bird should be golden brown all over with a crisp skin and have buttery, lemony juices of a nut-brown color in the bottom of the pan.

Nutrition

The post Dutch Oven Roasted Chicken appeared first on Southern Cravings.