Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a tasty, quick and an easy addition to any family meal. These golden, crispy chicken strips bid the exact crunch you crave from fried chicken, minus the oil and hassle. The interior? Well, it’s incredibly juicy and tender! Perfect for busy weeknights, game days or a spontaneous picnic, these chicken tenders are so versatile and convenient. Trust me folks, once you taste these, you’ll never go back to deep fried or oven baked!
Prepare to fall in love with how uncomplicated this dish is. It’s a personal favorite and a hit among friends and family. With an air fryer, you’re not only cooking a healthier version of classic chicken tenders, but also saving a good deal of time. But don’t take my word for it, give it a whirl and experience how this simple air fryer recipe can bring a burst of flavor in your plates.
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 12 minutes
- Total time: 22 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Yield: 12 tenders
Ready to make the best Air Fryer Chicken Tenders in your own kitchen? Let’s jump into the ingredients and step-by-step instructions!
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp paprika
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
As for the equipment, you’ll need an air fryer and some baking trays.
The panko breadcrumbs give the chicken tenders that unique crunch and the paprika adds a smoky flavor to the dish. Remember to not over-pack your air fryer. Work in batches if needed. If you wish, you can replace panko with crushed cornflakes or regular breadcrumbs.
How To Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Start by cutting the chicken breasts into strips, about 1″ thick. Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Arrange three bowls. In the first one, put flour. In the second, beat the eggs and in the third one, pour your breadcrumbs.
- Dip each chicken piece into flour, shake off excess, then dip into egg, then onto breadcrumbs. Press firmly so that the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
- Pre-heat the air fryer to 400��F. Spray the basket with cooking spray and arrange the tenders in a single layer.
- Cook for about 12 minutes, flipping halfway through until the breadcrumbs are golden and the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
Tips For The Best Results
- Make sure not to overlap the chicken tenders in the air fryer.
- Use cooking spray to help the tenders turn golden and crisp.
Storage Tips
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- For freezing, arrange cooled tenders on a baking sheet and freeze till firm before storing in freezer bags.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
A: Yes, let them cool, then freeze on a baking sheet. Transfer to a freezer bag once firm.
Q: Can I make this with other meats?
A: Certainly! The process will be the same, cooking times might vary based on the thickness and type of meat used.
Q: Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
A: Yes, regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes also work.
Q: What should I serve these chicken tenders with?
A: They are great as is, with dips or with a side salad.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Absolutely, just be sure to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
Nutritional Facts of Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
288 Calories; 6g Fat; 24g Protein; 29g Carbohydrates; 5g Fiber.
The verdict? This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe is a must-try for any home cooks looking for a healthier yet delightful meal. Serve them with your favorite dips or a crisp, refreshing side salad for the perfect complement to the crispy, juicy bite of the chicken. Enjoy, mates!
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