Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe: Crunch Time in 15 Minutes!

Boy, do I have a treat for you today. We’re diving into the world of crispy, juicy, and oh-so-delicious air fryer chicken tenders. I’ve fallen head over heels for this air fryer chicken tenders recipe. It’s the perfect solution for those hectic weeknights when you want to serve up something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Trust me, once you try these air fried chicken tenders, you’ll never look back!

What is Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?

Air fryer chicken tenders are a healthier twist on the classic fried chicken strips we all know and love. These crispy air fryer chicken tenders are made by coating chicken tenderloins in a flavorful breading and then cooking them to perfection in an air fryer.

The result? Incredibly crispy chicken tenders that are tender and juicy on the inside, with a fraction of the oil used in traditional deep-frying methods. It’s a win-win for both your taste buds and your waistline!

Ingredients List For Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Let’s gather our ingredients for this mouthwatering air fryer chicken tenders recipe:

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)

Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this air fryer chicken tenders recipe is how versatile it is. Here are some substitutions and variations to cater to different dietary needs or flavor preferences:

• For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of all-purpose flour and gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
• To make keto air fryer chicken tenders, replace the flour and breadcrumbs with a mixture of almond flour and grated parmesan cheese.
• For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your breading mixture.
• Try using different herbs and spices like rosemary, oregano, or Italian seasoning for varied flavors.
• For BBQ chicken tenders air fryer recipes, brush your cooked tenders with your favorite BBQ sauce and air fry for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Let’s dive into the cooking process for these delicious air fryer chicken tenders!

Step 1: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs and all the seasonings.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken Tenders

Dip each chicken tenderloin in flour, then egg, and finally the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s well-coated.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.

Step 4: Arrange and Cook

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. Cook for 5-6 minutes.

Step 5: Flip and Finish

Flip the chicken tenders and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Preparing Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

To help you achieve the best results, here are some common mistakes to avoid:

1. Overcrowding the air fryer basket: This can lead to uneven cooking.
2. Forgetting to preheat: Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
3. Not spraying with oil: A light coating of oil helps achieve that golden-brown color.
4. Skipping the flip: Flipping halfway through ensures both sides are crispy.
5. Using wet chicken: Pat your chicken dry before breading for better coating adhesion.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Serving and Presentation Tips

Let’s make these chicken tenders look as good as they taste:

• Serve on a platter lined with colorful lettuce leaves for a pop of color.
• Arrange the tenders in a fun pattern, like a circular fan or zigzag.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a touch of green.
• Serve with small bowls of various dipping sauces for a fun, interactive meal.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

These versatile chicken tenders can be served in numerous ways:

• As a main dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.
• Sliced and added to wraps or sandwiches for a quick lunch.
• Cut into bite-sized pieces and served as an appetizer with toothpicks.
• On top of a Caesar salad for a protein-packed meal.

Extra Recipe Tips For Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Here are some additional tips to take your air fryer chicken tenders to the next level:

• For extra crunch, try double breading your chicken tenders.
• Marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before breading for extra tenderness.
• Make a big batch and freeze the uncooked breaded tenders for quick future meals.
• Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, like Italian-seasoned or whole wheat.
• For a healthier option, try air fryer chicken tenders with no breading, just seasoned with your favorite spices.

FAQs

How long do you cook chicken tenders in an air fryer?

Typically, air fry chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C), flipping halfway through.

Can you put raw chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, you can air fry raw chicken tenders. Just ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Do you need to spray chicken with oil before air frying?

A light spray of oil helps achieve a golden-brown color and extra crispiness.

How do you cook frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer?

Cook frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, friends! This air fryer chicken tenders recipe is a game-changer for busy families who want to enjoy crispy, delicious meals without the guilt of deep-frying. As a mom who’s always looking for ways to make mealtime special, I can’t recommend this recipe enough. It’s quick, easy, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a fun weekend appetizer, these air fryer chicken tenders are sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. So dust off that air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy the crispiest, juiciest chicken tenders you’ve ever tasted. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to make every bite count!