Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Fingers: Quick And Easy?

Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to their ability to cook food quickly and with less oil. One food item that many people enjoy cooking in an air fryer is frozen chicken fingers. These crispy, delicious treats can be a quick and easy meal or a tasty snack. The key to getting crispy chicken fingers is to ensure that the chicken fingers are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket, allowing hot air to circulate and cook the food evenly. Depending on the model, air fryers can be preheated to temperatures between 360°F and 400°F, and chicken fingers are usually cooked for 8 to 15 minutes.

Cooking spray or oil

Using cooking spray or oil is an essential step when preparing frozen chicken fingers in an air fryer. It helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket and ensures a crispy exterior. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for using cooking spray or oil:

Choosing the Right Oil or Spray

The choice of oil or cooking spray is flexible, and you can opt for options like olive oil, vegetable oil, or avocado oil. Cooking spray is also a convenient choice and can be used effectively.

Amount of Oil or Spray to Use

It is important to use just a light coating of oil or cooking spray. A thin layer will be sufficient to prevent sticking and promote crisping without making the chicken greasy.

When to Apply the Oil or Spray

The optimal time to apply the oil or cooking spray is after arranging the frozen chicken fingers in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray or brush each piece of chicken to ensure even coverage.

Techniques for Application

When applying the oil or cooking spray, you can use a brush to gently coat the chicken fingers. Alternatively, if using cooking spray, spray each piece lightly and evenly. Avoid using too much, as it can lead to greasiness.

Benefits of Using Oil or Spray

The primary benefit of using oil or cooking spray is to prevent the chicken from sticking to the air fryer surface. Additionally, it helps the chicken fingers crisp up and maintains their moisture during the cooking process.

Tips for Optimal Results

When using oil, be careful not to overuse it, as it can make the chicken greasy. If you desire extra crispiness, a light mist of oil or an additional spritz of cooking spray before cooking can enhance the crunch.

Chicken finger brands

Yes, you can cook frozen chicken fingers in an air fryer. But which brand of chicken fingers should you choose?

Tyson

Tyson is a well-known brand of frozen chicken products, and its chicken fingers are a popular option. The brand offers a range of flavours, including its classic Crispy Chicken Strips, Honey BBQ Chicken Strips, and Honey Battered Chicken Breast Tenders. The honey battered option is an interesting twist on the classic chicken tender, with a sweet and savoury flavour. However, some people have noted that the honey BBQ variety may be too sweet for some palates.

Foster Farms

Foster Farms is another popular brand of frozen chicken fingers, with its Classic Crispy Strips being a favourite of some reviewers. These chicken fingers deliver on their promise of crispiness and are said to be reminiscent of McDonald's Snack Wraps.

Applegate Naturals

Applegate Naturals offers a gluten-free option for chicken tenders, which is a good choice for those with dietary restrictions. These tenders have a pure chicken flavour and a light, thin breading. While the breading may be too light for those seeking a crunchier option, the chicken itself is described as lean, fresh, and clean-tasting.

Simple Truth

Simple Truth offers a range of frozen chicken tenders, including an Organic Breaded Homestyle variety and a Mild Buffalo Style option. While the chicken may taste a little processed, the breading is well-seasoned with spices like celery, sea salt, and paprika, resulting in a tasty crunch.

Perdue

Perdue's Organics Crispy Chicken Strips are another solid choice, delivering on crispiness and flavour. The chicken strips are made with white meat and have a toasty flavour.

Just Bare

Just Bare's Lightly Breaded Chicken Breast Strips are a more expensive option, but they deliver on flavour and texture. These chicken tenders have a nuanced mix of zesty spices and a slightly buttery greasiness. The breading doesn't overpower the chicken, allowing the juicy, tender meat to shine through.

Other Brands

In addition to the brands mentioned above, there are several other options available in the market. These include Pilgrim's Crispy Chicken Breast Strips, Bell & Evans Chicken Breast Tenders, and Hot Ones Chicken Strips in Smoky Habanero flavour.

So, the next time you're looking to cook some frozen chicken fingers in your air fryer, consider trying one of these popular brands to satisfy your crispy, juicy, chicken cravings.

Air fryer temperature and time

The temperature and time for cooking frozen chicken fingers in an air fryer depend on the type of chicken fingers you are using. There are two types: fully cooked breaded frozen chicken tenders and frozen raw chicken strips.

Fully cooked breaded frozen chicken tenders

For fully cooked breaded frozen chicken tenders, you don't need to add any extra oil as they already have plenty from when they were pre-cooked. Simply lay the frozen tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 400°F/205°C for 10 minutes. Then, flip the chicken over and cook for another 2-5 minutes, or until they are cooked through and crispy.

Frozen raw chicken strips

For frozen raw chicken strips, where the breading is pre-cooked but the chicken is raw, you should start by cooking them at 400°F/200°C for 10 minutes. Then, flip them over and cook for an additional 2-5 minutes, or until they are crispy and cooked to your liking. It is important to ensure that the chicken is cooked through, with no pink remaining and clear juices, before serving.

General tips

• Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.
• Preheating the air fryer is not necessary, but if you do preheat, you may need to reduce the cooking time by a few minutes.
• Different brands of chicken fingers may have different cooking instructions, so always check the packaging and adjust the time and temperature accordingly.
• For crispier chicken fingers, lightly spray or brush them with cooking oil or cooking spray before cooking.

Dipping sauces

Chicken strips cooked in an air fryer are a quick, convenient, and healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken. The air fryer's rapid circulation of hot air helps achieve that irresistible golden brown crust in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional cooking methods.

Now, let's talk about dipping sauces! Here are some ideas and recipes to elevate your air-fried chicken strips:

Honey Dijon Dipping Sauce

This sauce is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavours. The honey adds a delightful sweetness to the dijon mustard, creating a delicious dip for your chicken strips. You can also add a splash of lemon juice to enhance the tanginess.

Greek Yogurt Blue Cheese Dressing

For a creamy and tangy dipping sauce, blend Greek yogurt with blue cheese crumbles. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This sauce pairs perfectly with the chicken strips, adding a rich and savoury flavour to your meal.

Homemade Chick-Fil-A Sauce

Recreate the famous Chick-Fil-A sauce at home! This sauce is a combination of various ingredients, including mayonnaise, mustard, and a blend of spices. It's a slightly tangy, creamy, and savoury sauce that complements the chicken strips beautifully.

Honey-Mustard Dip

Create a tangy honey-mustard dip by mixing Dijon mustard with honey and a splash of lemon juice. This dip offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavours that will enhance your chicken strips.

Smoky Chipotle Mayo Dip

For a smoky and spicy kick, blend chipotle peppers in adobo sauce with mayonnaise and a hint of lime. This dip will add a nice creamy texture and a smoky flavour to your chicken strips.

Spicy Ranch Dip

Combine ranch dressing with your favourite hot sauce to create a spicy ranch dip. This sauce will add a nice kick to your chicken strips while keeping them juicy and flavourful.

BBQ Sauce with Smoked Paprika

Enhance the classic BBQ sauce with a pinch of smoked paprika. This combination will give your chicken strips a sweet, smoky, and tangy flavour that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Store-Bought Options

If you're short on time, there are some excellent ready-made dipping sauces available. Primal Kitchen's Avocado-Lime Dipping Sauce and Thrive Market's Secret Sauce Dressing & Dip are great options. You can also explore various supermarket brands, such as Kroger and Subway, which offer a range of flavours like sweet onion teriyaki, honey mustard, and garlic aioli.

Cleaning and maintaining the air fryer

Cleaning an air fryer is much easier than cleaning a deep fryer. It is important to clean your air fryer regularly to maintain its performance and ensure food safety. Here are some detailed steps to help you clean and maintain your air fryer:

Step 1: Unplug the Air Fryer

Always start by turning off and unplugging your air fryer. This is a safety precaution and will also make it easier to handle the appliance during the cleaning process. Allow the air fryer to cool down completely before proceeding to the next step.

Step 2: Clean Removable Parts

Remove all the removable parts, such as the basket, tray, and pan. Wash these parts with warm, soapy water in the sink. If there is stubborn residue or stuck-on food, let the parts soak in the soapy water for a while before scrubbing gently with a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Most air fryers have dishwasher-safe pieces, but it is always a good idea to check the instruction manual for your specific model.

Step 3: Wipe Down the Main Unit

The main unit of the air fryer should not be immersed in water. Instead, use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior and exterior of the unit, including the control panel. This will remove any food splatters or grease residue. Be careful not to scrub the interior cooking surface too hard to avoid scratching it.

Step 4: Clean the Heating Coil

Check the heating coil, usually located at the top of the unit, after each use. If there is oil or residue on the heating coil, let the unplugged machine cool down, then use a soft dish brush or toothbrush to gently wipe it clean. Make sure the heating element is completely dry before moving on to the next step.

Step 5: Dry and Reassemble

Before reassembling the air fryer, ensure that all parts are completely dry. You can towel-dry or air-dry the components. Once everything is dry, reassemble the air fryer according to the manufacturer's instructions, making sure that all parts are properly aligned and securely in place.

Deep Cleaning

In addition to the regular cleaning steps outlined above, it is recommended to deep clean your air fryer about once a month or more frequently if you use it often or cook greasy foods. If you notice a buildup of grease, burnt food particles, or lingering odors, it's time for a thorough cleaning. Follow the steps below for a deep clean:

• Allow the air fryer to cool down completely before beginning the cleaning process.
• Unplug the air fryer from the power outlet.
• Remove all removable parts and wash them with hot water and mild dish soap. Use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to avoid damaging the non-stick coating. Alternatively, place the removable parts in the dishwasher for a deeper clean.
• Use a damp cloth or sponge to wipe down the interior and exterior of the air fryer, avoiding abrasive cleaners or scouring pads.
• Clean the heating element with a soft brush or toothbrush to remove any accumulated grease or residue. Be gentle to avoid damaging the heating coil or dislodging any components.
• Reassemble the air fryer once all parts are clean and completely dry.
• Store your air fryer in a clean, dry place when not in use to prevent dust or buildup of grime.

Tips for Keeping Your Air Fryer Cleaner for Longer

• Use air fryer liners or parchment paper to catch food drippings and prevent them from sticking to the basket.
• Wipe down the air fryer regularly, especially after cooking greasy foods.
• Avoid overcrowding the basket to prevent food from touching the heating element or creating excess splatter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive sponges, or metal utensils as they can damage the non-stick coating.
• Do not skip cleaning the heating element, even if it doesn't appear dirty. Grease can accumulate over time and reduce the efficiency of your air fryer.
• Ensure that all components are fully dry before reassembling to avoid moisture affecting the performance of your air fryer.

Frequently asked questions