Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Season the Chicken and Vegetables: In a large bowl, combine the chicken chunks, sliced bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix together the taco seasoning, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the chicken and vegetables, and toss to coat evenly.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Vegetables
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the seasoned chicken and vegetables in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through cooking, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender and slightly charred. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Serve
- Transfer to Serving Dish: Once the chicken and vegetables are cooked, transfer them to a serving dish.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Offer additional toppings like sour cream, guacamole, and salsa. Serve with warm tortillas or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Mexican Chicken Traybake
- Even Cooking: Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Do Not Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow for proper air circulation and even cooking. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Adjust Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili powder to control the heat level according to your preference.
- Marinate: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning mix and olive oil for a few hours before cooking.
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute the chicken with beef, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist.
- Vegetable Mix: Add other vegetables like mushrooms, corn, or black beans for more variety.
- Spice Mix: Experiment with different spice blends such as fajita seasoning or chipotle seasoning for a unique flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Air fryer Mexican chicken traybake is a convenient and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The air fryer makes the cooking process quick and easy while ensuring the chicken and vegetables are perfectly cooked. This recipe is sure to become a favorite for its simplicity and delicious taste. Enjoy making and savoring this easy and delicious meal!