Air Fryer Chicken Taco Bites

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. By circulating hot air around the food, air fryers produce a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This means you can enjoy all the crunchy goodness of fried foods while significantly reducing the amount of fat and calories.

Discover the ultimate quick meal with Air Fryer Chicken Taco Bites! These bite-sized delights are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, combining the beloved flavors of tacos with a healthier cooking method. Easy to prepare, customize the filling to suit your taste with fresh ingredients like chicken, beans, and spices. Serve them with your favorite dips for a fun appetizer or a satisfying dinner. Check out this recipe for a delicious twist on a classic that everyone will love!

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Ingredients

1 pound ground chicken

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)

1/4 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

1/4 cup corn (fresh or frozen)

1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)

12 small flour tortillas

1/2 cup salsa

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Sour cream (optional for serving)

Lime wedges (optional for serving)

Instructions

Cook the Chicken: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until softened and translucent. Incorporate the minced garlic and stir for another minute until fragrant. Next, add the ground chicken to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is fully browned and cooked through.

Season the Mixture: Once the chicken is browned, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add the rinsed black beans and corn. Stir everything together until combined. Allow the mixture to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, so it is heated through. Remove the skillet from heat and mix in the shredded cheese until it is melted and evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

Prepare the Tortillas: Take each flour tortilla and cut it into quarters to form small triangles. You should have approximately 48 triangle pieces. Lay the triangles out on a clean work surface and spoon a generous amount of the chicken filling into the center of each tortilla triangle.

Fold the Tortillas: Gently fold each tortilla triangle over the filling to create a pocket. If needed, use a toothpick to secure the edges, ensuring the filling remains intact during cooking.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes, allowing it to reach the right temperature for optimal cooking.

Air Fry the Bites: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the taco bites in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them (you may need to cook in batches). For extra crispiness, lightly spray the tops of the taco bites with cooking spray.

Cooking Time: Air fry the taco bites for approximately 6-8 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. They should be golden brown and crispy when done.

Serve: Carefully remove the taco bites from the air fryer once cooked. Arrange them on a serving platter, then drizzle with salsa for added flavor. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve warm, with optional sides of sour cream and lime wedges for a refreshing burst of flavor.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4-6 servings

- Presentation Tips: For an appealing presentation, consider serving the taco bites on a colorful platter, garnished with lime wedges and cilantro sprigs, enhancing the dish's festive look.