Air-Frying Barber Chicken: A Quick, Crispy Treat

Barber Foods offers a range of stuffed chicken products that can be cooked in an air fryer. The cooking time for these products varies between 15 and 20 minutes, depending on the air fryer temperature and the type of chicken. While some people have raised concerns about air frying chicken, others have found success by using an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the recommended internal temperature of 165°F.

Can you cook Barber Chicken in an air fryer?

Cooking temperature and time

While some sources suggest that Barber Foods boxes now say not to air fry their chicken, many people still cook Barber chicken in an air fryer.

For Barber's Frozen Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Chicken, you can place the frozen chicken directly in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. Set the temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 15 to 20 minutes. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

For Barber's Frozen Chicken Cordon Bleu, place the frozen chicken in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. You can cook up to four at a time, but make sure to leave space between each one for the hot air to circulate. Set the temperature to 370 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 17 to 20 minutes. Check the internal temperature of the chicken with an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

It is important to note that raw chicken must be cooked to a safe internal temperature to prevent foodborne illnesses. An instant-read thermometer can help ensure that your chicken is fully cooked.

Using a meat thermometer

There are two main types of meat thermometers: instant-read thermometers and leave-in probe thermometers. Instant-read thermometers are inserted into the meat to check the temperature after it has been removed from the air fryer. Leave-in probe thermometers, on the other hand, remain in the meat while it is cooking. These often have customizable alarms, eliminating the risk of overcooking your meal.

When using an instant-read thermometer, insert it into the thickest part of the meat, trying to find the coolest section. The temperature should drop as you push the probe deeper into the meat. For Barber chicken, the target internal temperature is 165°F (74°C). This temperature ensures the chicken is safe for consumption and helps prevent foodborne illnesses.

If you are using a leave-in probe thermometer, place it in the thickest portion of the meat, preferably close to the bone if there is one. This allows you to monitor the temperature continuously during the cooking process. Again, the target temperature for Barber chicken is 165°F, so adjust your cooking time accordingly until this temperature is reached.

By using a meat thermometer, you can ensure that your Barber chicken is cooked thoroughly and safely. It is a valuable tool to prevent undercooking or overcooking your meal, resulting in a delicious and healthy dish every time.

Preparing the air fryer basket

You can use a parchment paper liner to line the basket, which is helpful as the cheese can ooze out and stick to the basket. However, this is not necessary if you do not have parchment paper on hand. If you are cooking raw chicken, you may want to lightly spray the bottom of the basket with olive oil or cooking spray. This can help to prevent the chicken from sticking and ensure even cooking. However, if your chicken is pre-breaded, you can skip this step as the breading already contains oil.

Once you have placed the chicken in the air fryer basket, you are ready to set the temperature and cooking time. Depending on the variety of Barber chicken you are cooking, you may need to adjust the temperature and time slightly. For example, for Barber Foods Broccoli and Cheese Stuffed Chicken, set the temperature to 390 degrees Fahrenheit and cook for 15-20 minutes. On the other hand, for Chicken Cordon Bleu, a temperature of 370 degrees Fahrenheit and a cooking time of 17-20 minutes is recommended.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on your air fryer brand and model, so it is always a good idea to keep an eye on your chicken while it is cooking. Additionally, to ensure that your chicken is fully cooked, use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Chicken preparation

Preparing Barber chicken in an air fryer is a straightforward process. The first step is to take the chicken out of its package and place it in the air fryer basket or on the air fryer tray. If you are cooking multiple pieces of chicken, ensure they are in a single layer in the basket, with some space between each piece to allow the hot air to circulate properly.

The next step is to set the temperature and cooking time. The ideal temperature and duration may vary slightly depending on the type of Barber chicken and your preferences, but most sources recommend cooking the chicken at 370-390 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes. It is important to note that the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is cooked thoroughly. You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature in the middle of the chicken breast.

Additionally, you may consider spraying the bottom of the air fryer basket lightly with olive oil or cooking spray, although this is not necessary, as the breading on the chicken already contains oil.

Once the chicken is cooked to the desired temperature and appearance, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help keep the chicken juicy and tender.

It is worth mentioning that some Barber chicken boxes now advise against air frying, likely due to concerns about undercooking or liability issues. However, many people still choose to air fry Barber chicken, and with proper temperature monitoring, it can be done safely and successfully.

Serving suggestions

Barber chicken is a popular dish with juicy, flavorful meat and crispy skin. It is usually cut into small pieces and marinated before cooking. You can marinate the chicken in your favorite sauce or seasoning to add flavor and make it more tender.

When it comes to serving suggestions, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Roasted vegetables: Pair your air-fried Barber chicken with a variety of roasted veggies, such as asparagus, carrots, or bell peppers.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes can be a perfect side dish to accompany the crispy chicken.
• Warm bread: Serve your Barber chicken with a side of warm, crusty bread to soak up all the delicious juices.
• Salads: A fresh salad can complement the richness of the chicken. Opt for a classic Caesar salad or create your own mix of greens, vegetables, and a light dressing.
• Rice or quinoa: Consider serving your Barber chicken with a side of rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
• Gravy or sauce: While Barber chicken is flavorful on its own, you can also serve it with a gravy or sauce of your choice to add extra moisture and flavor.
• Sides: In addition to the above suggestions, you can also serve your Barber chicken with a variety of sides, such as roasted potatoes, grilled vegetables, or a refreshing fruit salad.

Remember, these are just a few ideas to get you started. The beauty of Barber chicken is that it is versatile and can be paired with a wide range of side dishes to create a delicious and satisfying meal. Get creative and experiment with different flavors and combinations to find your perfect serving suggestions!

Frequently asked questions