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Tacos have become a staple in many households, beloved for their versatility, flavor, and convenience. From traditional beef to innovative plant-based versions, the humble taco has evolved over the years to cater to diverse palates and dietary preferences. Among the latest trends in taco preparation is the use of air fryers, which allow home cooks to enjoy their favorite fried dishes with less oil and fewer calories. Enter the Crunchy Air Fryer Chicken Taco Bites, a bite-sized delight that offers the perfect balance of crunch and flavor while promoting healthier eating habits.

Air Fryer Chicken Taco Bites

Discover the joy of making Crunchy Air Fryer Chicken Taco Bites, a deliciously easy recipe that brings a healthy twist to your favorite comfort food. These bite-sized delights offer a satisfying crunch with less oil than traditional frying. Made with ground chicken, spices, beans, and cheese, they're packed with flavor yet lower in calories. Perfect for gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, these taco bites are customizable to fit your taste and dietary needs. Enjoy a guilt-free treat without sacrificing flavor!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound ground chicken

1 teaspoon chili powder

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained

1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

20 mini flour tortillas

Cooking spray (preferably olive oil)

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Salsa or guacamole (for serving)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with chili powder, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Blend well using your hands or a spatula until the spices are evenly distributed throughout the chicken.

    Add Fillings: Carefully fold in shredded cheddar cheese, rinsed black beans, and corn kernels into the chicken mixture. Mix until all ingredients are well combined, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor.

      Assemble Taco Bites: Take a mini flour tortilla and place approximately 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture into the center. Gently fold the tortilla in half, pressing the edges together to seal the filling inside. Repeat this assembly process until all of the chicken mixture is used.

        Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is essential to achieve even cooking and crispiness.

          Air Fry the Taco Bites: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the folded taco bites in a single layer within the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded (you may need to cook in batches). Lightly spray the tops of the taco bites with cooking spray to enhance their crispiness.

            Cooking Time: Air fry the taco bites for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. Look for a golden brown color and a crispy texture as indicators that they are done.

              Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the taco bites from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm with sides of salsa or guacamole for dipping.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 10 servings

                  - Presentation Tips: Present the taco bites on a colorful platter, and arrange small bowls of salsa and guacamole alongside for easy sharing. Consider adding a sprinkle of extra cilantro for an appealing finish!