Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier twist on the classic fried chicken. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a favorite for both kids and adults. Whether you want a quick meal or a tasty snack, these chicken tenders are easy to make and full of flavor.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is a healthier option compared to traditional frying since it uses less oil. Second, the air fryer cooks the chicken quickly while keeping it juicy and tender. Plus, it’s a fun recipe that you can easily customize with your favorite seasonings. These tenders are perfect for serving as a main dish, in wraps, or as finger foods at parties.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is simple and quick. Follow these steps to enjoy crispy and tasty chicken tenders in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (500 g) chicken tenders (or boneless chicken breast cut into strips)
- 2 eggs (beaten)
- 3 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 cup (70 g) panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- ½ to 1 tsp kosher salt (to taste)
- Ground black pepper (to taste)
- ⅓ tsp garlic powder
- ⅓ tsp onion powder
- ⅓ tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Olive oil spray (or regular olive oil)
Directions:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare three separate bowls. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, Parmesan cheese, salt, and seasonings. Beat the eggs in the second bowl. Place the breadcrumbs in the third bowl.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture first, then coat it with the flour mixture. Next, dip it back into the eggs and finish by coating it with the breadcrumbs. Press firmly to cover both sides and shake off any excess.
- Spray both sides of the coated chicken tenders with olive oil or cooking spray. Place them in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket; you can cook in batches if needed.
- Cook in the hot air fryer for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, after about 5 minutes. The chicken is ready when it’s cooked through and the outside is golden and crispy.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are very versatile. You can serve them with a side of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue. They also pair well with fresh salads, fries, or even as a filling in wraps or sandwiches. Enjoy them hot for the best flavor and crispiness!
How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
If you have leftover chicken tenders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and store them for up to 3 months. To reheat, use the air fryer or oven to restore their crispiness.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Make sure your chicken is patted dry before coating for better breading adherence.
- For extra flavor, try adding different spices to the breadcrumb mixture.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Variation
You can easily change the flavor of your chicken tenders by using different seasonings. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the flour mixture. For a zesty twist, try adding lemon zest to the breadcrumb coating.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can cut boneless chicken breasts into strips to make these tenders.
2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The outside should be golden brown and crispy.
3. Can I reheat the tenders in the air fryer?
Yes, reheating them in the air fryer is a great way to keep them crispy. Heat them at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
Enjoy your tasty and crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders!
