Easy Dinner Ideas – Cooking Frog https://cookingfrog.com Easy and Delicious Recipes Sat, 25 Jan 2025 18:56:47 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2 https://cookingfrog.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/cropped-Frog-512-x-512-150x150.png Easy Dinner Ideas – Cooking Frog https://cookingfrog.com 32 32 Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Skewers https://cookingfrog.com/air-fryer-breaded-chicken-skewers/ https://cookingfrog.com/air-fryer-breaded-chicken-skewers/#respond Sat, 25 Jan 2025 18:56:47 +0000 https://cookingfrog.com/?p=17271 Read More]]> Craving a quick, comforting meal without drowning in leftovers? These small-batch Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Skewers are the answer. Each tender piece is marinated for extra flavor, then coated in crisp breadcrumbs that turn golden and irresistible after just a few minutes in the air fryer. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but uses a fraction of the oil you’d need to pan-fry.

Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or a quick lunch fix, this simple dish has you covered. The marinade keeps the chicken moist, the air fryer locks in that crunch, and you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to pull everything together. No more wrestling with big pans of hot oil—just assemble, air fry, and serve.

Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Skewers 2

Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Skewers

Ingredients

  • 1 lbs chicken breast, cut into ¾-inch strips
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs
  • ¾ cup real mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp fine sea salt
  • ½ tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 6 small wooden skewers (soaked in water for 30 minutes if using wooden)
  • Cooking spray (or a light drizzle of oil)
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ¼ tsp dried thyme
  • (Optional) pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken
    1. In a large mixing bowl, combine mayonnaise, salt, black pepper, and your custom seasoning blend (oregano, basil, thyme, plus an optional pinch of chili flakes if you like some heat).
    2. Add the chicken strips to the bowl, making sure they’re fully coated.
    3. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or overnight for deeper flavor).
  2. Thread onto Skewers
    1. Remove the chicken from the fridge.
    2. Carefully thread each strip onto the skewers, keeping the flat sides facing roughly the same way for even air frying.
  3. Bread the Skewers
    1. Pour the Italian breadcrumbs onto a large plate or shallow dish.
    2. Press or roll each chicken skewer into the breadcrumbs, patting gently so they stick.
    3. Shake off any excess crumbs.
  4. Preheat and Arrange
    1. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
    2. Lightly mist the basket with cooking spray or use a small drizzle of oil.
    3. Place the skewers in a single layer. If they don’t all fit, it’s best to cook them in batches so they turn out crisp and evenly cooked.
  5. Air Fry the Chicken
    1. Lightly spray the tops of the skewers with cooking spray to help brown the crumbs.
    2. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, then use tongs to carefully flip each skewer.
    3. Continue cooking for another 4–5 minutes, or until golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer.
  6. Serve and Enjoy
    1. Let the skewers rest for a minute on a plate.
    2. Serve hot. They’re fantastic on their own or paired with dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or even a zesty sriracha-mayo combo.

If these chicken skewers hit the spot, I’d love for you to share them on Pinterest and let everyone in on this crispy, savory goodness!

Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Skewers 4

Flavor Variations for Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Skewers

Feel free to get creative with your seasonings to match any craving or occasion. Below are a few ideas to switch up the taste while keeping the same simple process:

  1. Zesty Lemon-Herb
    • Marinade Boost: Add a tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and a pinch of lemon zest to your mayo mixture.
    • Herb Swap: Replace the oregano and basil with dried rosemary and parsley for a bright, citrusy spin.
    • Serving Suggestion: Serve with a side of lemon-garlic aioli or drizzle fresh lemon juice over the top just before serving.
  2. Spicy Cajun Kick
    • Seasoning Twist: Swap the Italian breadcrumbs for plain breadcrumbs, and blend in 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning.
    • Amp Up the Heat: Stir a bit of cayenne pepper into the marinade if you really want to bring the fire.
    • Dipping Sauce: Cool things off with ranch or a creamy chipotle sauce on the side.
  3. Savory Garlic-Parmesan
    • Cheesy Crumbs: Mix half a cup of grated Parmesan into your breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
    • Garlic Punch: Mince one or two garlic cloves into the marinade, or sprinkle garlic powder into the breadcrumb mixture.
    • Finishing Touch: Top the skewers with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley right before serving.
  4. Sweet BBQ Glaze
    • Before the Breadcrumbs: Brush each chicken strip with a thin layer of barbecue sauce before coating in breadcrumbs.
    • Flavor Tip: Opt for a smoky or sweet BBQ sauce to complement the mayo marinade.
    • Post-Cook Glaze: Lightly dab extra BBQ sauce on the skewers once they’re done to give them a fresh, tangy finish.
  5. Mediterranean-Inspired
    • Mediterranean Marinade: In place of the custom seasoning blend, add a teaspoon of dried oregano, a sprinkle of dried dill, and a hint of lemon zest to the mayo mixture.
    • Breadcrumb Mix-In: Consider folding in some crumbled feta or a little dried thyme for a bolder Mediterranean vibe.
    • Serving Suggestion: Pair with tzatziki sauce or a light cucumber and tomato salad.

Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Skewers Video Recipe

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Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Sauce (Crispy & Tender) https://cookingfrog.com/beef-and-broccoli/ https://cookingfrog.com/beef-and-broccoli/#respond Thu, 17 Oct 2024 16:48:13 +0000 https://cookingfrog.com/?p=17223 Read More]]> There’s a special place in my heart for meals that are both comforting and bursting with flavor. This Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Garlic Sesame Glaze is one such dish that never fails to delight.

I remember the first time I whipped it up on a busy weeknight, rummaging through my fridge for ingredients and hoping to create something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. The result was a harmonious blend of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and a glaze so good I found myself licking the spoon.

Over the years, I’ve perfected this recipe, and it’s become a beloved staple in my household. It’s quick to prepare, it takes less than 30 minutes, yet tastes like you’ve spent much more time on it—a perfect meal for sharing with family and friends. I’m thrilled to share this recipe with you, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine.

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry with Sauce

Beef and Broccoli Recipe

Ingredients

For the Stir-Fry:

  • 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
  • 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 tablespoons sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish)

For the Garlic Sesame Glaze:

  • 1/3 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup oyster sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Sauce:

  1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, cornstarch, toasted sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

Cook the Beef:

  1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the sliced beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables:

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining vegetable oil.
  2. Sauté the minced garlic and grated ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add broccoli florets and bell pepper slices. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender.

Combine Everything:

  1. Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables.
  2. Pour the prepared sauce over the beef and veggies.
  3. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Serve:

  1. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
  2. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.

If this beef and broccoli stir-fry had you double-checking that you really made it yourself, it’s only fair to share the magic. Save the image to your Pinterest board and share the joy of cooking together.

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry with Sauce 2

Tips & Tricks for the Recipe

  • Prep Ahead: Chop all your vegetables and slice the beef before you start cooking. Having everything ready to go makes the stir-fry process quick and seamless.
  • Marinate for Extra Flavor: Although not required, marinating the beef in a bit of soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for 20 minutes can enhance its flavor.
  • Use High Heat: Stir-frying is all about quick cooking over high heat. Make sure your skillet or wok is thoroughly heated before adding the beef to get a nice sear.
  • Cook Beef in Batches: To avoid steaming and ensure even browning, cook the beef in small batches without overcrowding the pan.
  • Blanch Broccoli: For even more vibrant and tender-crisp broccoli, consider blanching it in boiling water for 1 minute before adding it to the stir-fry.
  • Customize Vegetables: Feel free to add or substitute other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots based on your preference.
  • Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. If it’s too thin, mix a little more cornstarch with cold water and stir it in.
  • Taste and Season: Always taste the dish before serving and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want a bit more soy sauce, sweetness, or spice.
  • Serve Immediately: Stir-fries are best enjoyed fresh off the stove while the flavors are vibrant, and the vegetables are still crisp.
  • Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain the texture of the beef and veggies.
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Marinated Air-Fryer Pork Tenderloin With Garlic Butter https://cookingfrog.com/marinated-air-fryer-pork-tenderloin/ https://cookingfrog.com/marinated-air-fryer-pork-tenderloin/#respond Sat, 16 Dec 2023 17:38:36 +0000 https://cookingfrog.com/?p=16331 Read More]]> This air-fryer pork tenderloin recipe is all about bringing a rich, savory flavor to your table with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook, you’ll find this recipe a breeze.

In just 30 minutes, you can transform a simple pork tenderloin into an impressive and delicious main course, perfect for any day of the week.

Marinated Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin With Garlic Butter 2

Air-Fryer Pork Tenderloin Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 lb pork tenderloin
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp fresh cracked pepper
  • 1 tsp each of dried basil, oregano, thyme, parsley, and sage (or 2 tbsp Italian Herb Seasoning Blend)
  • Optional: 1 bottle of this Italian Salad Dressing for marinating
  • Fresh pomegranate arils for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Optional Marinating:

  • If desired, marinate the pork in Italian dressing for 12-24 hours to enhance the flavor.

Make the Garlic Butter:

  • Mix minced garlic with butter to create your garlic butter mixture.

Seasoning:

  • Combine garlic, basil, oregano, thyme, parsley, and sage in a bowl. (Alternatively, use Italian Seasoning.)
  • Rub this herb blend onto the pork, followed by a generous seasoning with sea salt and pepper.

Air-Frying:

  • Preheat the air-fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Place the pork in the air-fryer, optionally covering it loosely with foil.
  • Halfway through the cooking process (after about 10-12 minutes), turn the pork and add the garlic butter mixture on top.
  • Continue cooking until the internal temperature reaches 145 degrees Fahrenheit, typically in 20-25 minutes total.

Resting:

  • Let the pork rest for about 5 minutes after cooking. This step allows the juices to be redistributed, ensuring the meat remains juicy.

Garnishing:

  • Optionally, garnish the sliced pork with fresh pomegranate arils for added color and a hint of tangy sweetness.

Serving:

  • Serve the warm pork tenderloin, ideally with a side dish of your choice.

Loved how your air fryer pork tenderloin turned out? Why not spread the word? Pin the image below to your Pinterest board. It’s a great way to let your friends and followers in on this delicious secret!

Marinated Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin With Garlic Butter 4

Storing and Reheating Tips:

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • For longer storage, freeze for up to three months.
  • Reheat in the air-fryer or oven after thawing in the refrigerator overnight.

Recipe Variation Ideas for Air-Fried Garlic Butter Pork Tenderloin

1. Spicy Twist: For those who love a bit of heat, add a spicy kick to your pork tenderloin. Mix in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into your seasoning blend. Alternatively, you can rub the pork with a spicy marinade, like chipotle or sriracha, before cooking.

2. Citrus Infusion: Brighten the flavor profile by adding citrus elements. Marinate the pork in a mixture of orange juice, lemon zest, and a touch of honey. This will give a refreshing and slightly sweet tang to the dish.

3. Herb Crust Variation: Create a herbaceous outer crust by coating the pork in a mix of finely chopped fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, and parsley) mixed with breadcrumbs. This adds a delightful texture and a burst of fresh flavors.

4. BBQ Style: For a BBQ twist, slather the pork with your favorite barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of air-frying. This will create a sweet and smoky glaze that’s irresistible.

5. Mediterranean Influence: Incorporate Mediterranean flavors by using a mix of sun-dried tomatoes, olives, feta cheese, and Greek seasoning in the rub. Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing complement.

6. Asian Fusion: Give your pork tenderloin an Asian flair. Marinate it in a mixture of soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and a hint of sesame oil. After cooking, glaze it with a blend of hoisin sauce and honey for a sweet and savory finish.

7. Stuffed Tenderloin: Elevate the dish by stuffing the tenderloin. Make a filling with ingredients like sautéed spinach, mushrooms, and cheese, or a sweet and savory combination of apples, onions, and bacon. Butterfly the tenderloin, fill it, then tie it up before air-frying.

8. Creamy Sauce: Serve the pork with a creamy sauce. A simple garlic mushroom cream sauce or a Dijon mustard cream sauce can add a luxurious touch to the dish.

Marinated Air Fryer Pork Tenderloin With Garlic Butter 3

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