If you’re craving crispy, golden chicken tenders but want to skip the mess (and calories!) of deep frying, this air fryer chicken tenders is exactly what you need. These chicken tenders come out perfectly crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and are ready in under 20 minutes! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking for a quick snack, this recipe is straightforward and versatile.
The air fryer not only gives you that irresistible crunch but also cuts down on the oil, making these a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. Plus, you can customize the seasonings to suit your taste—spice them up with a dash of cayenne pepper or keep them mild and kid-friendly. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a batch of crispy tenders that everyone will love!
From busy weeknights to game-day snacks, these air fryer chicken tenders will become your new go-to. Just grab some dipping sauces and your favorite sides, and you’ve got a meal that hits all the right notes!
Why you’ll love this air fryer chicken tenders recipe…
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs ,beaten
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
Ingredients:
Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps the chicken cook evenly and get crispy.
Set Up Your Breading Station:
- Prepare three shallow bowls:In the first bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.In the second bowl, beat the eggs.In the third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Bread the Chicken Tenders
- Coat each chicken tender by dipping it in the flour mixture first,
- then into the beaten eggs,
- and finally into the panko breadcrumbs. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Spray and Cook:
- Place the breaded tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if necessary). Spray the tenders with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Cook at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Check for Doneness:
- The tenders are ready when they're golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!
Notes
- Breadcrumbs: Use crushed cornflakes for extra crunch or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Seasonings: Try Italian seasoning, Cajun spices, or even lemon pepper for a twist.
Nutrition
Serving Suggestions:
Serve these air fryer chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces—ketchup, honey mustard, ranch, or even a spicy sriracha mayo! They also pair wonderfully with a side of fries, a simple green salad, or roasted veggies. You can even use them to top a Caesar salad or stuff them in wraps for a fun twist on lunch.
🧑🍳 Expert Tips:
Storage and Reheating:
- Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze the breaded, uncooked tenders for up to 3 months. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag.
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until warmed through and crispy again.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders FAQs:
What is the best temperature to cook chicken in an air fryer?
For crispy chicken tenders, the sweet spot is 400°F. This high temperature ensures the outside gets golden and crunchy while the inside stays juicy. Most air fryers handle this temperature well, making it ideal for chicken.
How long to cook frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer at 400°F?
If you’re cooking frozen chicken tenders, expect them to take a bit longer—about 12-15 minutes at 400°F. Be sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking, and always check to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! If you don’t have chicken tenders on hand, simply cut chicken breasts into strips. They’ll cook the same way, though you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness.
Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
Yes, preheating helps the chicken tenders cook more evenly and get crispy faster. It only takes about 5 minutes to preheat most air fryers.
How do I make my tenders extra crispy?
For an extra crispy coating, double dip the tenders in the egg and breadcrumb mixture before air frying. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture.
Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute regular flour with a gluten-free alternative, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal for the coating.
What dipping sauces go well with chicken tenders?
There are so many great options! Classic choices include ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing. For something different, try sriracha mayo, buffalo sauce, or a tangy garlic aioli.
Enjoy your crispy air fryer chicken tenders with your favorite sides and sauces!
