These air fryer chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a perfect dinner option for families.
This recipe is simple and quick, allowing you to prepare delicious chicken tenders in under 30 minutes. You can serve them with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside a fresh salad.
Why Choose Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?
Air fryer chicken tenders offer a delightful twist on a classic favorite.
They provide a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, allowing you to enjoy that crispy texture without the excess oil.
This makes them an excellent choice for families looking to maintain a balanced diet while still enjoying delicious meals.
Preparation Made Simple
Preparing these chicken tenders is straightforward and quick.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a tasty dish ready in about 25 minutes.
The process involves cutting the chicken into strips, setting up a simple breading station, and then letting the air fryer do the work.
Flavorful Coating
The secret to the crispy exterior lies in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
Combining breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper creates a flavorful coating that enhances the chicken’s natural taste.
This mixture clings beautifully to the chicken, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
Cooking Technique
Using an air fryer is key to achieving that golden-brown finish.
Preheating the air fryer ensures that the tenders cook evenly and develop a satisfying crunch.
Cooking them in a single layer allows for optimal air circulation, resulting in perfectly cooked chicken tenders every time.
Serving Suggestions
These chicken tenders are versatile and can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces.
Honey mustard is a classic choice that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
Adding a side of fresh vegetable sticks not only enhances the meal’s presentation but also provides a refreshing crunch that balances the dish.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
Each serving of these air fryer chicken tenders is packed with protein, making them a filling option for any meal.
With only 250 calories per serving, they fit well into a health-conscious diet.
Enjoy them as a main dish or as part of a larger spread; either way, they are sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe
These chicken tenders are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and cooked in the air fryer for a crispy texture without the excess oil. The recipe serves 4 people and takes about 25 minutes from start to finish.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into strips and set aside.
- Prepare Breading Stations: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip first in the flour, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken Tenders: Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 20g