Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders
There’s something truly magical about the first bite of Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders. The crispy texture on the outside, paired with the juicy tenderness on the inside, is a flavor explosion that never fails to lift my spirits. I remember the first time I prepared these for my family; the excitement was palpable. They rushed to the table, their mouths watering in anticipation. The aroma of the marinating chicken filled the kitchen, and I could barely contain my own hunger as I worked to get them ready. These chicken tenders have become a staple in our household, perfect for quick dinners or casual gatherings. They’re incredibly easy to make with the Ninja Foodi, and honestly, who doesn’t love chicken tenders? They’re not just for kids anymore! Every bite brings back fond memories of family dinners and laughter around the table.
Recipe Snapshot
35 mins
25 mins
10 mins
Medium
320 kcal
30 g
Keto, Paleo, Whole30
20 g
Mixing Bowl
When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats the versatility of chicken. The Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders are straightforward yet packed with flavor. I love how you can customize the spices to suit your taste, whether you prefer a little kick or a hint of sweetness. The best part? You can have them ready in no time, making them perfect for those busy weeknights when you need something delicious and quick. Join me as I share why these chicken tenders stand out.
Why Try This Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders
Perfectly Crispy Every Time
One of the standout qualities of the Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders is their irresistible crunch. The air crisping feature of the Ninja Foodi ensures that your chicken turns out golden brown and crispy without the need for excessive oil. It’s a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture.
Flavorful Marinade
The marinade is simple yet incredibly effective. By using a combination of lemon juice, olive oil, and spices like oregano and cumin, you infuse the chicken with vibrant flavors that tantalize the taste buds. Letting the chicken marinate for a bit amplifies these flavors, making each bite memorable.
Quick and Easy
Life can be hectic, but the Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders are here to save the day! With minimal prep and cook time, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. I love how these tenders can go from prep to dinner table in about 35 minutes.
Kid-Friendly
These chicken tenders are a hit with kids as well as adults. Their crispy exterior and juicy interior make them appealing to even the pickiest eaters. You can serve them plain or with a variety of dipping sauces, ensuring that everyone finds something they love.
Great for Meal Prep
If you’re like me and enjoy meal prepping, these tenders are perfect. They store well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated, making them an ideal option for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Plus, they taste just as good the next day!
Ingredients Overview for Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders
The ingredients for the Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders come together beautifully to create a dish that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Each ingredient plays a critical role in building the taste and texture of the chicken. From the zesty lemon juice that brightens the whole dish to the rich depth of olive oil, these ingredients are essential for crafting the perfect chicken tender.
- 1/4 cup lemon juice: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that brightens the chicken and helps tenderize it.
- 1/3 cup olive oil: Provides moisture and richness, ensuring the chicken stays juicy during cooking.
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Layers in a delightful aroma and flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken.
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano: Introduces a Mediterranean flair that complements the overall dish.
- 1 teaspoon coriander: Offers a warm, citrusy flavor that enhances the marinade.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds a earthy depth, making the flavor profile more complex.
- 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg: A hint of sweetness that rounds out the savory notes.
- 2 chicken breasts cut into 1″ strips: The star of the show! They provide the hearty protein base for this dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, bringing out all the flavors.
Instructions for Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders
Making Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process that anyone can master. I love how simple the steps are, letting you focus on the fun of cooking rather than getting bogged down with complicated methods. Let’s dive into the steps and create some mouthwatering chicken tenders!
- Start by gathering your ingredients: lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, and your chicken breasts. This step is crucial to ensure you have everything on hand.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, coriander, cumin, and nutmeg. Mix them well until fully blended. The fragrance of the marinade will start to fill the kitchen, and it smells divine!
- Now, add the chicken strips into the bowl, making sure they are fully coated in the marinade. Spoon the mixture over the chicken to ensure every piece is covered. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for about 20 minutes. This step is essential for developing the flavors, so don’t skip it!
- While the chicken is marinating, preheat your Ninja Foodi air crisp basket for about 5 minutes at 360 degrees. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and get that desired crispiness.
- Once the basket is preheated, carefully place the marinated chicken strips in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate properly.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. I like to sprinkle these generously for a good seasoning base.
- Cook the chicken tenders for 5 minutes at 360 degrees. After the time is up, flip the chicken tenders to ensure both sides get that golden brown color.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes on the other side. The chicken should be cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the Ninja Foodi. They should look perfectly crispy and golden. Serve immediately and enjoy! These are best enjoyed hot, straight from the air fryer!
For those who have larger pieces of chicken, you may need to work in batches to ensure everything fits well in the basket. And remember, if the chicken is particularly thick, it might require an additional minute or so on each side to ensure it’s cooked through.
Things Worth Knowing
- Chicken Thickness: For perfectly cooked chicken tenders, make sure the strips are even in thickness. This ensures they cook uniformly.
- Marination Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes enhances the flavor. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours can deepen the taste even further.
- Batch Cooking: If cooking for a crowd, it’s better to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket. This helps maintain crispiness.
- Check for Doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
Make It Your Own
There are countless ways to customize your Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders. I encourage you to explore different flavors and seasonings based on your preferences. Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the Ninja Foodi for crispy results.
- Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months. Just make sure they’re cooled completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- Pairing: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue for added flavor.
- Flavor Variations: Experiment with different spices in the marinade, such as paprika, chili powder, or garlic powder for a flavor twist.
- Serving Ideas: Serve your chicken tenders alongside a fresh salad or crispy fries for a complete meal.
What Goes Well With This Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders
- Side Dishes: Pair your chicken tenders with classic side dishes like mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or fresh vegetable sticks for a balanced meal.
- Dipping Sauces: Offer a selection of dipping sauces, such as ranch, buffalo sauce, or sweet and sour, to cater to different tastes.
- Occasions: These tenders are ideal for casual gatherings, family dinners, and game nights. They’re also a great option for lunchboxes.
- Seasonal Pairings: In warmer months, serve with a light salad. In colder months, a hearty soup can complement these tenders nicely.
- Storing Leftovers: Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate. They can be reheated in the Ninja Foodi for a quick meal.
- Meal Prep: These chicken tenders are great for meal prep. Cook a larger batch and use them throughout the week in salads, wraps, or as protein for quick lunches.
FAQ
Conclusion
The Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders truly stand out as a beloved recipe, offering a perfect combination of crispy and juicy textures with mouthwatering flavors. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a casual gathering, these tenders are sure to impress. I hope you’re inspired to try making this recipe and enjoy the delightful experience of sharing delicious food with your loved ones.
Ninja Foodi Chicken Tenders
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon coriander
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 3/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 2 chicken breasts cut into 1" strips
- salt and pepper
Instructions
- Start by gathering your ingredients: lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, coriander, cumin, nutmeg, and your chicken breasts. This step is crucial to ensure you have everything on hand.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, dried oregano, coriander, cumin, and nutmeg. Mix them well until fully blended. The fragrance of the marinade will start to fill the kitchen, and it smells divine!
- Now, add the chicken strips into the bowl, making sure they are fully coated in the marinade. Spoon the mixture over the chicken to ensure every piece is covered. This helps the flavors penetrate the meat.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the chicken marinate in the fridge for about 20 minutes. This step is essential for developing the flavors, so don't skip it!
- While the chicken is marinating, preheat your Ninja Foodi air crisp basket for about 5 minutes at 360 degrees. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and get that desired crispiness.
- Once the basket is preheated, carefully place the marinated chicken strips in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow hot air to circulate properly.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper to enhance the flavor. I like to sprinkle these generously for a good seasoning base.
- Cook the chicken tenders for 5 minutes at 360 degrees. After the time is up, flip the chicken tenders to ensure both sides get that golden brown color.
- Cook for an additional 5 minutes on the other side. The chicken should be cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the Ninja Foodi. They should look perfectly crispy and golden. Serve immediately and enjoy! These are best enjoyed hot, straight from the air fryer!
Notes
- Chicken Thickness: For perfectly cooked chicken tenders, make sure the strips are even in thickness. This ensures they cook uniformly.
- Marination Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes enhances the flavor. If you have more time, marinating for a few hours can deepen the taste even further.
- Batch Cooking: If cooking for a crowd, it’s better to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket. This helps maintain crispiness.
- Check for Doneness: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
