Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal that the whole family will love, look no further than these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. With a crispy, golden exterior and juicy, tender meat inside, these chicken tenders are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional frying. The air fryer makes it simple to achieve that perfect crunch without all the added oil. Serve them up with your favorite dipping sauces, and you have a meal that’s sure to please!
Why This Recipe Works
The beauty of air frying lies in its ability to create a crispy texture while using significantly less oil than deep frying. The hot air circulating around the chicken tenders ensures even cooking and browning, giving you that satisfying crunch you crave. This recipe is straightforward, requiring only a few basic ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, customizing the seasonings allows you to tailor the flavor to your liking!
Shopping List
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins (about 6 tenders), tendons removed
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup unseasoned panko breadcrumbs
- 1 to 1-1/2 teaspoons Lawry’s original seasoned salt, divided
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika, divided
- 1 teaspoon onion powder, divided
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder, divided
- 1 teaspoon freshly-ground black pepper, divided
- Neutral, high-heat cooking oil spray
- Dipping sauces, such as ketchup, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Air fryer – the star of the show for this recipe!
- Mixing bowls – for preparing the egg wash and coating mixtures.
- Whisk or fork – to beat the egg and milk together.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient measurements.
- Tongs – for flipping the chicken tenders without making a mess.
- Plate or baking sheet – for staging the coated chicken before air frying.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by ensuring your chicken tenderloins are clean and the tendons are removed. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the coatings stick better.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
In one bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. In another bowl, combine the flour with 1 teaspoon of Lawry’s seasoned salt, ½ teaspoon of sweet paprika, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of freshly-ground black pepper. Finally, in a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining seasonings.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, followed by the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coat. Repeat with all the tenderloins.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders
Spray the air fryer basket with the cooking oil spray. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with more cooking oil. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce. They are perfect for a quick meal or a fun appetizer!
Fit It to Your Goals
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
- Add spice! Mix in cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
- Experiment with different seasonings like Italian herbs or Cajun spices to switch up the flavor profile.
- Make it a meal by serving alongside roasted veggies or a hearty salad.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure to cook in batches if necessary.
- Not preheating the air fryer can affect the crispiness. Always preheat for best results.
- Skipping the oil spray may result in less crispy chicken. A light spray helps achieve that golden color.
- Not allowing the chicken to rest can result in a loss of juiciness. Give them a few minutes after cooking before serving.
Storage & Reheat Guide
Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.
Common Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips. Just keep in mind that they may require a slightly longer cooking time to ensure they cook through.
How can I make these chicken tenders spicier?
You can add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture or use a spicy seasoning blend to give the tenders a kick of heat.
What dipping sauces pair well with chicken tenders?
Classic choices include ketchup, honey mustard, ranch dressing, and BBQ sauce. You can also try sriracha or a spicy mayo for something different.
Can I freeze the chicken tenders before cooking?
Absolutely! You can freeze the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, you can air fry them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Try These Next
- Honey Butter Chicken Tenders Family Favorite
- Garlic Butter Chicken Bites With Roasted Potatoes
- Oven Bbq Chicken Thighs Extra Juicy
Final Bite
These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are not just a meal; they are a delightful experience that combines convenience, flavor, and a touch of nostalgia. Whether you’re whipping them up for a family dinner or serving them at your next gathering, these tenders are bound to become a favorite. The versatility of this recipe allows you to enjoy them in numerous ways, making it a go-to dish in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits!
Share on Pinterest
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by ensuring your chicken tenderloins are clean and the tendons are removed. Pat them dry with a paper towel to help the coatings stick better.
- In one bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. In another bowl, combine the flour with 1 teaspoon of Lawry's seasoned salt, ½ teaspoon of sweet paprika, ½ teaspoon of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon of freshly-ground black pepper. Finally, in a third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the remaining seasonings.
- Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash, followed by the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coat. Repeat with all the tenderloins.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior.
- Spray the air fryer basket with the cooking oil spray. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with more cooking oil. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauces.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.
- Add spice! Mix in cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick.
- Experiment with different seasonings like Italian herbs or Cajun spices to switch up the flavor profile.
