Crispy air fryer chicken tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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Why Make This Recipe

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a fantastic choice for a quick and tasty meal. They are healthier than traditional fried tenders since they use less oil. Plus, the air fryer makes them super crispy without the mess of deep frying. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or any time you crave something crunchy and delicious.

How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh chicken tenders
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Cooking spray or oil, for misting

Directions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. This helps the coating stick better and prevents sogginess.

  2. Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour lightly seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture combined with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This setup makes breading efficient and mess-free.

  3. Coat the Chicken: Coat each chicken tender first in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure every inch is evenly coated for the crispiest results.

  4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure even cooking temperature.

  5. Cook the Tenders: Arrange the breaded tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece to allow hot air circulation. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking, until the crust is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  6. Serve: Transfer the crispy tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil, then serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes.

How to Serve Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are great served hot alongside dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. You can also pair them with fresh veggies, salads, or fries for a complete meal. They are perfect for a family dinner or as a finger food for parties.

How to Store Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to get them crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Tips to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

  • Ensure chicken tenders are dried well before coating to help the breading stick.
  • Experiment with different spices or add herbs for added flavor.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

Variation

You can switch up the seasonings based on your taste preferences. Try adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or Italian herbs for a classic flavor twist. You can also use chicken breasts cut into strips instead of tenders if that’s what you have on hand.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
    Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer.

  2. What if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
    If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work too, but they might not be as crispy.

  3. Can I double the recipe?
    Absolutely! Just make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket, and you may need to cook them in batches for even cooking.

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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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  • Author: jurgentukur
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free alternatives)
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Description

These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are healthier than traditional fried versions and offer a crunchy, delicious meal for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb fresh chicken tenders
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Cooking spray or oil, for misting

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
  2. Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Coat each chicken tender in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange the breaded tenders in the air fryer basket and lightly spray with cooking spray. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Transfer to a plate lined with paper towels and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer to retain crispiness.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

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