Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe: A Perfect, Crispy Delight!

Air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering healthier alternatives to deep-frying without compromising on taste and texture. Among the many delicious dishes you can make in an air fryer, chicken tenders stand out as a fan favorite. In this article, we’ll walk you through the full recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, which are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and easy to prepare.

Why Choose Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?

Air frying is a fantastic method to cook chicken tenders because it uses significantly less oil compared to traditional deep frying. This results in lower calorie intake while still achieving a crispy, golden-brown exterior. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, ensuring an even cook and a tender, juicy bite.

Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for the family or serving up a tasty snack, Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are sure to impress.

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Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

For the best air fryer chicken tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• For the Chicken Tenders:
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or chicken tenderloins (cut into tenders if using chicken breasts)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray (for spraying the air fryer basket)
• For the Breading:
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (adds a delicious savory flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (for a spicy kick)
• For Dipping (optional):
  • Ranch dressing or honey mustard sauce for dipping

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Method for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

• If you’re using chicken breasts, start by cutting them into tender-sized pieces, about 1-1.5 inches wide.
• Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This will help the breading adhere better.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

• You’ll need three shallow bowls or plates for the breading process:
  1. Flour Bowl: In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. Season it with a pinch of salt and pepper to season the chicken.
  2. Egg Wash Bowl: In the second bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. This will be the adhesive that helps the breadcrumbs stick.
  3. Breadcrumb Coating Bowl: In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. If you like a little heat, feel free to add cayenne pepper here as well.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders

• Take one piece of chicken at a time, and first dip it into the flour bowl. Coat it evenly and shake off any excess flour.
• Next, dip the floured chicken tender into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated.
• Finally, transfer the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture and press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick. Coat it evenly on all sides. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken will start cooking immediately and crisp up nicely.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

• Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for even cooking. You may need to work in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
• Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes at 400°F (200°C). After 5-6 minutes, flip the chicken tenders to ensure they cook evenly on both sides.
• Once golden brown and crispy on the outside and cooked through on the inside (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C), remove them from the air fryer.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

• Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping it tender and juicy.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, or ketchup, for an added burst of flavor.

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Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

1. For Extra Crispy Chicken Tenders: If you love extra crispy chicken tenders, try double-dipping. After the first coat of breadcrumbs, dip the chicken back into the egg wash and then coat it with breadcrumbs again.
2. Chicken Tender Size: Cut the chicken tenders into uniform sizes to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: For the crispiest results, make sure there is enough space between the tenders. If needed, cook them in batches.
4. Check Internal Temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the chicken to ensure it’s fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Air Fryer Variations: Cooking times and temperatures can vary slightly depending on the model of air fryer you own. Adjust as necessary and keep an eye on the tenders to avoid overcooking.
6. Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the air fryer to maintain their crispiness.

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Why You’ll Love Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

• Healthier Option: With less oil than deep frying, these chicken tenders offer a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste or texture.
• Quick & Easy: The whole process takes less than 30 minutes, making it a great meal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.
• Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings in the breading to match your preferences. Add herbs, spices, or even a bit of grated cheese to create a unique flavor profile.

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Conclusion:

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are the ultimate balance of crispy, flavorful, and juicy. They are perfect for a family dinner, a game day snack, or even a quick lunch. With the air fryer, you can enjoy your favorite crispy chicken tenders without the added fat, making it a win-win for your taste buds and health. Give this recipe a try, and we guarantee it will become a staple in your cooking routine!

External Link: https://www.skinnytaste.com/air-fryer-chicken-tenders/

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