Air Fryer Marie Callender's Chicken Marinara

Air Fryer Marie Callender's Chicken Marinara

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Servings: 1 meal

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen Marie Callender's Chicken Marinara entree (includes chicken, pasta, and marinara sauce).

• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil for garnish.

Equipment:

• Air fryer (ensure the basket fits the meal’s container).

• Meat thermometer (optional, for checking the chicken’s internal temperature).

• Tongs or a heat-resistant spoon.

• Oven mitts or heat-resistant gloves.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

   • Turn on your air fryer and set it to 350°F (177°C).

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

2. Prepare the Frozen Meal:

   • Remove the Chicken Marinara entree from its packaging.

   • Keep the meal in its original container, but use a fork or small knife to pierce the plastic film 5-7 times. This step allows steam to escape, which helps cook the food evenly.

3. Place the Meal in the Air Fryer Basket:

   • Place the container flat in the air fryer basket, ensuring it’s stable. Avoid tilting to prevent sauce spillage.

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

4. Begin Cooking:

   • Set the timer for 30 minutes.

   • Halfway through (around the 15-minute mark), carefully pause the air fryer and remove the basket. Stir the pasta and sauce gently to ensure even heating. Be careful not to tear the plastic film entirely.

   • Re-cover the meal loosely and return it to the air fryer for the remaining cook time.

5. Check for Doneness:

   • After 25 minutes, check the chicken’s internal temperature using a meat thermometer. It should read at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

   • If needed, continue cooking in 3-5 minute increments until the desired temperature is reached.

6. Optional Step for Extra Crispiness:

   • For a slightly crispy texture on the chicken, remove the chicken pieces from the container and place them directly in the air fryer basket. Increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C) and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

   • Stir the pasta and sauce again to keep them warm while the chicken crisps up.

7. Serve Your Meal:

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

   • Plate your meal, combining the chicken, pasta, and sauce for a beautiful presentation.

   • Optional: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh basil on top for added flavor and a touch of elegance.

Tips for Success:

• Avoid Overcooking: Regularly check the meal during the final minutes of cooking to prevent the pasta from drying out.

• Use Foil Sparingly: If transferring to a different dish, cover loosely with foil to retain moisture and prevent sauce splatter.

• Test Your Air Fryer: Adjust cooking times slightly depending on your air fryer model, as cooking performance can vary.

FAQ:

Can I cook multiple meals at once?

It’s best to cook one entree at a time to ensure even heating. Overloading the air fryer may result in inconsistent cooking.

What if the pasta isn’t fully heated after 30 minutes?

Stir the pasta and sauce thoroughly, then cook for an additional 3-5 minutes at 350°F.

Can I add extra toppings?

Absolutely! Consider adding shredded mozzarella or fresh vegetables during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra flavor.

Make Marie Callender's Chicken Marinara in the air fryer for juicy chicken, pasta, and rich marinara sauce. A quick and easy way to enjoy this classic meal!