Ingredients:
Level 1 (bottom of pot):
1 poundcavatappi pasta
7 cupswater
1 tablespoonsalt
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Level 2 (top layer of rack):
6 to 8 pieces frozen chicken tenders
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For the sauce (Level 1):
1/2 cupunsalted butter
1/2 cupall-purpose flour
3 cupswhole milk, warmed
1 cupheavy cream, warmed
3 cupsshredded sharp cheddar cheese (set aside 1 cup for garnish)
2 cupsshredded mozzarella cheese (set aside 1 cup for garnish)
2 teaspoonssalt
1/2 teaspoonfreshly ground black pepper
1/2 cupBuffalo hot sauce
Directions:
Place the cavatappi, water, and salt in the Ninja® Foodi® pot and stir to combine.
Place the bottom layer of the Deluxe Reversible Rack in the higher position and cover with aluminum foil, then place the rack in the pot. Spread the frozen chicken tenders on top of the rack. Close the lid and move the slider to STEAMCRISP.
Select STEAM & CRISP, set temperature to 425°F, and set time to 10 minutes. Press START/STOP to begin cooking. PrE will display for approx. 10 minutes as the unit steams, then the timer will start counting down.
When cooking is complete, remove the rack with the chicken tenders and cut it into bite-size pieces. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Set the pot to SEAR/SAUTE to ‘3’ and add the butter and flour. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly.
Slowly add the warmed milk and cream, whisking constantly. Add the cheddar, mozzarella, salt, and pepper. Once the cheese has melted completely, add the Buffalo sauce, cooked pasta, and chicken tender pieces. Stir to combine.
Add the reserved cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the top. Close the lid and move slider to AIR FRY/STOVETOP. Select BROIL, set temperature to 450, and time to 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden. Press START/STOP to begin broiling.