Air Fryer Marie Callender's Cheesy Bacon Chicken

Air Fryer Marie Callender's Cheesy Bacon Chicken

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Servings: 1 meal

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen Marie Callender's Cheesy Bacon Chicken entree (includes chicken, cheese sauce, bacon bits, mashed potatoes, and vegetables).

• Optional: Fresh parsley, shredded cheese, or a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits for garnish.

Equipment:

• Air fryer (ensure the container fits comfortably).

• Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves.

• Tongs or a heat-resistant spoon.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Set your air fryer to 350°F (177°C).

   • Allow it to preheat for 3-5 minutes for even cooking.

2. Prepare the Frozen Meal:

   • Remove the Cheesy Bacon Chicken entree from its box.

   • Keep the plastic film intact but pierce it in 5-7 spots with a fork or knife to allow steam to escape.

3. Place the Meal in the Air Fryer Basket:

   • Position the container flat in the air fryer basket. Ensure it is stable to prevent spilling the cheese sauce.

   • If the container doesn’t fit, transfer the meal to an air fryer-safe or oven-safe dish and cover loosely with foil.

4. Cook the Meal:

   • Set the timer for 30 minutes.

   • At the 15-minute mark, pause the air fryer. Carefully remove the basket and stir the mashed potatoes and vegetables. Spoon some cheese sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.

   • Re-cover loosely with the pierced plastic film or foil and return to the air fryer.

5. Check for Doneness:

   • After 25 minutes, use a meat thermometer to check the chicken. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

   • If the meal is not fully heated, continue cooking in 3-5 minute increments, stirring occasionally.

6. Optional Step for Extra Flavor:

   • For a crispy finish on the chicken, transfer the chicken pieces directly to the air fryer basket during the last 5 minutes. Increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C).

   • Stir the mashed potatoes and vegetables again to keep them warm.

7. Serve Your Meal:

   • Carefully remove the container or dish from the air fryer using oven mitts.

   • Plate the chicken, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and cheese sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra shredded cheese, or crispy bacon bits for an indulgent finish.

Tips for Success:

• Prevent Cheese Sauce from Drying Out: Stir the sauce halfway through cooking and spoon it over the chicken and potatoes to keep everything moist.

• Add Extra Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top during the last 5 minutes of cooking for an extra cheesy finish.

• Experiment with Toppings: Add freshly ground black pepper or smoked paprika for enhanced flavor.

FAQ:

Can I cook multiple meals at once?

It’s best to cook one meal at a time to ensure even heating.

What if the mashed potatoes aren’t fully heated?

Stir the mashed potatoes and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Can I make the chicken crispier?

Yes! Finish the chicken in the air fryer basket without sauce for the last few minutes for a lightly crispy texture.

Cook Marie Callender’s Cheesy Bacon Chicken in the air fryer for crispy chicken, gooey cheese sauce, bacon bits, mashed potatoes, and veggies in just 30 minutes!