Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Air fryer chicken tenders are a quick, easy, and healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. With a golden, crunchy coating and tender meat inside, these chicken tenders are perfect for family dinners, game-day snacks, or meal prep. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a meal everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts sliced into strips)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Shallow bowls (for breading station)
• Tongs
• Baking sheet or plate

Instructions

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

• Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.

2. Set Up the Breading Station:

• In one shallow bowl, place the flour.
• In a second bowl, beat the eggs.
• In a third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.

3. Bread the Chicken Tenders:

• Coat each chicken tender in flour, shaking off any excess.
• Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
• Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breading sticks.

4. Air Fry the Chicken Tenders:

• Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
• Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray.
• Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

5. Serve:

• Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.

Tips

• Double the Crunch: For extra crispy tenders, use a combination of panko and regular breadcrumbs.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for some heat.
• Meal Prep: Cooked tenders can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for 2–3 minutes.

Air fryer chicken tenders are a simple, delicious, and healthier way to enjoy crispy chicken without deep frying. Perfect for dipping, snacking, or adding to salads and sandwiches, these tenders will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy their crunch with every bite!