Air Fryer Marie Callender's Fiesta Queso Chicken

Air Fryer Marie Callender's Fiesta Queso Chicken

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 30-35 minutes

Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Servings: 1 meal

Ingredients:

• 1 frozen Marie Callender's Fiesta Queso Chicken entree (includes chicken, rice, beans, vegetables, and queso sauce).

• Optional: Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños 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 to ensure even heating.

2. Prepare the Frozen Meal:

   • Remove the Fiesta Queso Chicken entree from its box.

   • Keep the plastic film on the container, but use a fork or knife to pierce it in 5-7 spots. This allows steam to escape during cooking.

3. Place the Meal in the Air Fryer Basket:

   • Position the container flat in the air fryer basket. Ensure it sits securely to avoid spilling the queso sauce.

   • If the container doesn’t fit, transfer the contents to an air fryer-safe dish and cover loosely with foil to retain moisture.

4. Cook the Meal:

   • Set the timer for 30 minutes.

   • At the 15-minute mark, pause the air fryer and carefully remove the basket. Stir the rice, beans, and vegetables to distribute the heat evenly. Spoon some queso sauce over the chicken to keep it moist.

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

5. Check for Doneness:

   • After 25 minutes, check the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

   • If the meal is not fully heated, continue cooking in 3-5 minute increments until the desired temperature is reached.

6. Optional Step for Extra Flavor:

   • For a slightly crispy texture on the chicken, transfer it directly to the air fryer basket for the last 5 minutes of cooking. Increase the temperature to 375°F (190°C).

   • Stir the rice and beans again to ensure they remain warm while the chicken crisps up.

7. Serve Your Meal:

   • Using oven mitts, carefully remove the container or dish from the air fryer.

   • Plate the chicken with the rice, beans, vegetables, and queso sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños for an added burst of color and flavor.

Tips for Success:

• Avoid Drying Out the Sauce: Stir the queso halfway through cooking and spoon it over the chicken to retain moisture and enhance flavor.

• Test Your Air Fryer: Cooking times may vary depending on your air fryer model, so adjust accordingly.

• Add a Personal Touch: Pair with tortilla chips or a side of salsa for a complete Tex-Mex experience.

FAQ:

Can I cook more than one Fiesta Queso Chicken at a time?

It’s best to cook one meal at a time to ensure even heating and avoid overloading the air fryer.

What if the queso sauce isn’t fully heated?

Stir the contents thoroughly and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes at 350°F to ensure even heating.

Can I customize the toppings?

Yes! Add your favorite toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or hot sauce for extra flavor.

Make Marie Callender’s Fiesta Queso Chicken in the air fryer for perfectly melted queso, juicy chicken, seasoned rice, and veggies. A fast, cheesy delight!