I made these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders one lazy weekend, and honestly, they turned out way better than I expected: crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and ready in minutes. The best part was how guilt-free they felt compared to deep-fried ones. Paired with a little honey mustard dip, they became my new favorite quick meal for busy days or late-night cravings.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe
Difficulty: Easy4
servings10
minutes12
minutes290
kcalCrispy on the outside, juicy on the inside – these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier, golden-brown alternative to deep-fried favorites. Quick to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for dipping, they’re a go-to weeknight meal or snack!
Ingredients
1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders (or chicken breast strips)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
Olive oil spray (for coating)
Directions
- Prepare the dredging station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a third.
- Coat the chicken: Dredge each chicken tender first in flour, then dip it into eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating sticks.
- Preheat air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Cook the tenders: Lightly spray both the air fryer basket and chicken tenders with olive oil. Arrange chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
- Air fry: Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauce (ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ).
Nutrition Information
- Calories: ~290 kcal
- Protein: 27 g
- Carbohydrates: 18 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Sugar: 1 g
Expert Tips and Variations
For extra crunch, try using crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs. You can swap regular milk with almond milk or even yogurt for marinating. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or garlic powder adds a nice kick of flavor. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. This ensures even browning and that perfect crisp texture. If you’re craving something sweet, pair chicken tenders with a delicious Roblox cake.
How to Store and Reheat Chicken Tenders
Keep leftover tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes until warm and crisp again. This keeps them from turning soggy. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the coating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a difference between chicken strips and chicken tenders?
Yes. Chicken tenders come from the tenderloin, a specific muscle under the breast, while chicken strips are simply sliced pieces of chicken breast.
What do the British call chicken tenders?
In the UK, chicken tenders are often called chicken goujons, though they may also be referred to as chicken strips.
What dipping sauces go best with chicken tenders?
They pair well with ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or even a simple ketchup.
How do I store leftover chicken tenders?
Store cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes to bring back the crispiness.
Also Type This Recipe: Gochujang Chicken Recipe
