Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Tenders That Wow Your Taste Buds

Name: Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Tenders That Wow Your Taste Buds
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup flour; 2 eggs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 2, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Hey there, fellow food lovers! If you haven’t jumped on the air fryer bandwagon yet, let me tell you, you’re missing out! The air fryer has revolutionized how we cook, especially when it comes to making crispy, juicy chicken tenders without the guilt of deep frying. Trust me, my family can’t get enough of these air fryer breaded chicken tenders. They come out perfectly golden and crunchy every single time, and the best part? They’re so quick and easy to whip up! I remember the first time I tried air frying; I was skeptical, but the moment I pulled out that perfectly cooked batch of chicken tenders, I was hooked! The crispy exterior and tender inside are simply irresistible, making them a hit for dinner or game day snacks. So, let’s dive into this deliciousness together!

Ingredients for Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Tenders

For these mouthwatering air fryer breaded chicken tenders, you’ll need a few simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor and crunch:

1 lb chicken tenders: Look for fresh or frozen tenders; they’re the star of the show!
1 cup breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor, or plain if you prefer to add your own spices.
1/2 cup flour: This helps create a perfect coating and gives that amazing crunch.
2 eggs: Beaten, these will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
1 tsp garlic powder: A must for that savory flavor that makes these tenders irresistible!
1 tsp paprika: Adds a lovely color and a hint of smokiness.
Salt and pepper: To taste; don’t skip this step, as it really enhances the overall flavor!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Tenders

Getting your air fryer breaded chicken tenders ready is a breeze! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have crispy, delicious tenders in no time. Let’s break it down into easy-to-follow instructions.

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This step is crucial because you want the tenders to cook evenly and get that golden brown crust we all love!

Next, let’s set up a breading station. Grab three bowls and fill them as follows:

In the first bowl, add the flour.
In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Now, it’s time to bread those chicken tenders! Start by dredging each tender in the flour, making sure to coat it evenly. Shake off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks. Oh, and don’t be shy—get your hands a little messy; it’s part of the fun!

Once all your tenders are breaded, place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; you want that hot air to circulate around them for maximum crispiness. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. They should be golden brown and cooked through when done.

Just a quick tip: if you like extra crispiness, give the tenders a light spray of cooking oil before popping them in the air fryer. It makes a world of difference! And there you have it—crispy, tender chicken tenders ready to be devoured!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer breaded chicken tenders recipe is a total game changer for several reasons:

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes!
Great Taste: The combination of garlic powder and paprika gives these tenders an irresistible flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Healthier Alternative: By air frying instead of deep frying, you get all the crunch without the excess oil, making them a lower-calorie option.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love these crispy tenders, making them perfect for family meals or gatherings.
Versatile: Serve them plain, dip them in your favorite sauce, or toss them in a salad for a delicious meal any time!

Tips for Success

To ensure your air fryer breaded chicken tenders turn out perfectly every time, here are some tried-and-true tips that I’ve learned along the way:

Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your tenders as they cook! Depending on the thickness, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. A thicker tender might take a minute or two longer.
Breading Technique: Make sure to really press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken. This helps them stick better and results in a crunchier coating. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there!
Air Fryer Adjustments: Every air fryer operates a bit differently, so it’s good to check the tenders a few minutes before the recommended time. If they’re not quite golden, pop them back in for a minute or two.
Batch Cooking: If you’re making a large amount, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket. This ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of air fryer chicken tenders!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying these air fryer breaded chicken tenders, it’s nice to know what you’re putting into your body. Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving, keeping in mind that these values can vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use:

Calories: 250
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 500mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Protein: 20g
Sugar: 1g

These tenders are not only delicious but also a healthier choice compared to traditional frying methods. Enjoy!

FAQ About Air Fryer Breaded Chicken Tenders

I know you might have a few questions about making these air fryer breaded chicken tenders, so let’s dive into some common queries!

Can I use chicken instead of tenders? Absolutely! Just cut them into strips, but be aware that they might take a bit longer to cook, so keep an eye on them.
What if I don’t have breadcrumbs? No worries! You can crush up some crackers or use panko for an even crunchier texture. Trust me, they’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers? If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for that fresh-out-of-the-kitchen crunch!
Can I make these gluten-free? Definitely! Just swap out the flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. They’ll turn out just as tasty!
Are these tenders kid-friendly? Oh yes! My kids love them, especially when paired with their favorite dipping sauces. They’re a guaranteed hit!

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer breaded chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and sauces to create a complete meal! Here are some of my favorite suggestions:

Classic Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing for a deliciously satisfying experience.
Fresh Salads: Toss them on top of a crisp garden salad or a Caesar salad for a hearty twist.
Veggie Sides: Pair with steamed broccoli, roasted sweet potatoes, or a medley of sautéed vegetables for a colorful plate.
Fries or Wedges: You can’t go wrong with a side of air-fried sweet potato fries or crispy potato wedges!

No matter what you choose, these tenders are sure to steal the show!