Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Introduction
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are the go-to dish when you need a quick, flavorful meal that everyone will devour. Crispy on the outside and juicy within, these tenders offer all the crunch of deep-fried chicken without the extra oil or mess. Effortless to make and ready in under 30 minutes, they’re ideal for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or meal prepping.
Why These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Stand Out
What sets this recipe apart is the incredibly tender chicken enveloped in a golden, crunchy coating—all achieved without a single drop of deep-frying oil. The air fryer method not only ensures a healthier result but also delivers consistent crispiness and locks in all the flavor. Serve them straight up or slice over salads and wraps for a protein-packed upgrade to your meal routine.
The Keys to Flavorful, Crunchy Chicken Tenders
The flavor foundation comes from a quick marinade, followed by a seasoned breadcrumb coating that browns beautifully in the air fryer. Seasonings like garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper amp up the taste, but the real secret is in the even, golden finish only an air fryer can provide.
For slicing chicken into perfect, even strips, a tool like the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper can speed up prep and ensure uniform cooking.
Effortless Cooking with Your Air Fryer
To get perfect results every time, preheat your air fryer (if needed) and layer the tenders in a single, uncrowded layer. The COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt is a great fit for family-sized batches, ensuring even circulation and optimal crispiness.
For easy cleanup and to prevent sticking, line your basket with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll or grab a set of Air Fryer Paper Liners to save time on scrubbing.
Serving Suggestions to Satisfy Every Appetite
Partner your crispy chicken tenders with classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or sriracha mayo. For a well-rounded lunch, pack leftovers into a Bentgo Salad Container filled with mixed greens and your favorite veggies for a grab-and-go meal. Want an extra-fresh crunch? Blitz cucumbers or carrots in a Ninja BL610 Professional 72 Oz Countertop Blender for a quick salad topping.
Nutritional Information and Servings
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Each serving of chicken tenders (unbreaded) typically contains around 180–220 calories, plus an additional 80–120 calories from breading and cooking spray. Enjoy as a light entrée or hearty snack, knowing you’re getting a crispy, satisfying meal without the extra fat of deep frying.
Recap: Irresistible Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Homemade air fryer chicken tenders are crispy, juicy, and incredibly convenient—sure to become a family favorite. With a quick prep, easy cleanup, and endless meal possibilities, there’s no reason not to make this healthy twist on a classic comfort food tonight.
Ingredients
Instructions
- If using whole breasts, slice chicken evenly using the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper to ensure uniform size.
- Set up a breading station: Place flour in one shallow bowl. In a second bowl, beat eggs. In a third bowl, combine panko with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat each chicken strip in flour, dip in egg, then press into seasoned panko until well coated.
- Line the air fryer basket with a sheet of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll or use Air Fryer Paper Liners for easy cleanup.
- Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in the basket of your preheated COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt in a single layer. Lightly mist with nonstick spray or olive oil spray.
- Air fry at 400°F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (check with a digital meat thermometer).
- Serve hot with fresh lemon wedges, herbs, and your favorite sauces. Pack leftovers in a Bentgo Salad Container for easy lunches.
Cook and Prep Times
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
