Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe
Introduction
Crispy, golden air fryer chicken tenders are a quick and delicious meal perfect for busy weeknights. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and cooked to perfection without excess oil, they offer a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Serve them with fresh lemon wedges for a bright finish.
Ingredients
- 12 chicken tenders (1 1/4 lbs)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup seasoned panko
- Olive oil spray
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Season the chicken tenders evenly with kosher salt and black pepper on both sides.
- Step 2: Place the beaten eggs in a shallow bowl. In a separate shallow bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and seasoned panko.
- Step 3: Dip each chicken tender first into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb and panko mixture. Shake off any excess coating and arrange the tenders on a large dish or cutting board.
- Step 4: Generously spray both sides of each breaded tender with olive oil spray to help achieve a crispy texture.
- Step 5: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- Step 6: Cook the chicken tenders in batches for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and golden brown on the outside.
- Step 7: Serve immediately with lemon wedges for squeezing over the top.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add garlic powder or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Use plain breadcrumbs and season them yourself for a more customizable taste.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the coating mix.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
Storage
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes to regain crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating crunchy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken tenders for even cooking in the air fryer. If using frozen, thaw completely before breading and cooking.
What if I don’t have seasoned breadcrumbs or panko?
You can use plain breadcrumbs and season them with salt, pepper, dried herbs, and spices to suit your taste before coating the chicken.
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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Crispy and tender air fryer chicken tenders, perfectly seasoned and lightly coated with a crunchy breadcrumb and panko mixture. This quick and easy recipe uses an air fryer to achieve a golden, crispy exterior without deep frying, making it a healthier and convenient option for a delicious homemade meal or snack.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 12 chicken tenders (about 1 1/4 lbs)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Breading
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
Finishing
- Olive oil spray
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken tenders evenly with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Place the beaten eggs in a shallow bowl. In a separate shallow bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten egg, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb and panko mixture. Shake off any excess breading and place the tenders on a large dish or cutting board.
- Apply Oil Spray: Generously spray both sides of the breaded chicken tenders with olive oil spray to help achieve crispiness while air frying.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: In batches if necessary, place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket. Cook each side for 5 to 6 minutes until the tenders are cooked through, crispy, and golden brown on the outside.
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve hot with fresh lemon wedges for added zest.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs and panko for extra flavor and texture, or add your own spices to the mix.
- Check the internal temperature of chicken tenders to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Olive oil spray helps achieve a crispy coating while keeping the dish lighter than deep-frying.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, these tenders can be baked at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, easy chicken tenders, healthy chicken tenders, quick chicken recipe
