1. Prepare the Chicken:
- Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Bacon:
- Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Place the chopped bacon in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the basket.
3. Cook the Chicken:
- Place the chicken breasts in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook at 360°F (180°C) for 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be mostly cooked through at this point.
4. Prepare the Sauce:
- While the chicken is cooking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic, cooking until the mushrooms are tender and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the canned chopped tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and the cooked bacon. Simmer the sauce for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine Chicken and Sauce:
- Pour the prepared sauce over the partially cooked chicken breasts in the air fryer basket. If using, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Continue cooking at 360°F (180°C) for an additional 10 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the sauce is bubbly.
6. Serve:
- Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the air fryer, ensuring they are coated with the rich sauce.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Enjoy:
- Serve your Air Fryer Hunter’s Chicken hot, paired with mashed potatoes, rice, or a side of green vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Tips for Success:
- Bacon Crispiness: Adjust the cooking time for the bacon based on your preference for crispiness.
- Cheese Topping: Adding cheese is optional but adds a lovely melted layer on top of the chicken.
- Chicken Doneness: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Conclusion:
This Air Fryer Hunter’s Chicken recipe brings together tender chicken, smoky bacon, and a savory tomato-mushroom sauce in a convenient and flavorful dish. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite with its rich taste and easy preparation. Enjoy this hearty meal straight from your air fryer!