Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: 7 Reasons You’ll Adore Them

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: 7 Reasons You'll Adore Them
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenders; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup flour; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

June 9, 2025

This post may contain affiliate links learn more

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Oh my goodness, let me tell you about the joy of making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders! Seriously, these crispy and tender bites of heaven are a game-changer in my kitchen. I was a bit skeptical at first, but once I discovered how easy and convenient it is to make chicken tenders in an air fryer, I was hooked! You get the crunch of traditional frying without all the guilt—it’s a win-win!

Using an air fryer means you can whip up dinner in no time, and you don’t have to deal with a messy kitchen filled with oil splatters. Just imagine biting into perfectly golden tenders that are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, all while knowing you’re making a healthier choice for you and your family. Plus, they’re so versatile! You can pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or toss them into a salad for a protein-packed lunch. Trust me, once you try these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, they’ll become a staple in your home, just like they are in mine!

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders - detail 1

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to get started on your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Don’t worry, these ingredients are super simple and you probably have most of them already in your kitchen!

1 pound chicken tenders: Fresh or thawed, whichever you have on hand will work perfectly!
1 cup breadcrumbs: I love using panko for that extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs are great too.
1/2 cup flour: All-purpose flour does the trick here, helping the breading stick to the chicken.
2 eggs: Beaten, these will act as the glue for our delicious coating.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a lovely depth of flavor that you just can’t skip!
1 teaspoon paprika: For that beautiful color and a hint of smokiness.
Salt to taste: Essential for bringing out the flavors.
Pepper to taste: A little kick to round out the seasoning.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re already halfway to crispy chicken goodness! Let’s dive into making these tenders together!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Alright, let’s get those Air Fryer Chicken Tenders ready! I promise this step-by-step guide will make it easy and fun, so roll up those sleeves and let’s get to work!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the air fryer: First things first, you’ll want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial because it helps ensure your chicken tenders cook evenly and get that perfect golden color.
Set up your breading station: Grab three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add your flour. In the second, beat the two eggs until they’re nice and frothy. And in the third bowl, pour in your breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This setup makes the breading process a breeze!
Season the chicken: Now, take your chicken tenders and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Don’t be shy! This is where you can really infuse those flavors.
Breading time: Here comes the fun part! Take one chicken tender and dredge it in the flour, coating it lightly. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture until it’s well-covered. Repeat this for all chicken tenders. Trust me, it’s worth the effort!
Arrange in the air fryer: Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re not overcrowded; you want them to crisp up nicely! If you have to, cook them in batches.
Cook to perfection: Cook the tenders for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they get that even, crispy exterior. Keep an eye on them, as air fryers can vary a bit in cook time!
Serve hot: Once they’re golden brown and cooked through, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer. Let them cool for a minute before serving. Oh, the smell is divine!

And there you go! You’ll have crispy, tender chicken tenders ready to dip and enjoy. Trust me, they’ll be a hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Let me tell you why these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are going to steal your heart! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll want to make them over and over again:

Quick to Prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time and about 12 minutes in the air fryer, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!
Healthier Option: Say goodbye to excess oil! These tenders are crispy and satisfying without the guilt that comes from deep frying.
Full of Flavor: Thanks to the garlic powder and paprika, each bite is bursting with flavor. You’ll be amazed at how tasty these simple ingredients can be!
Kid-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters! These tenders are not only appealing to kids but also fun to dip in your favorite sauces!
Versatile: Enjoy them as a main dish, toss them into a salad, or serve them with a side of veggies. They fit into any meal plan effortlessly!
Crispy Goodness: The air fryer gives you that satisfying crunch without drying out the chicken. You won’t believe how tender and juicy these tenders are!

Once you try these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, you’ll see why they’re a go-to recipe in my kitchen! They’re perfect for busy weeknights or when you just want a comforting meal with minimal fuss.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re all set to make those Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, I want to share some of my best tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every single time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will make a big difference!

Preheat the air fryer: This is a must! Preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) not only helps your chicken tenders cook evenly but also gives them that beautiful golden color. Don’t skip this step!
Adjust seasoning to your liking: Feel free to play around with the seasonings! If you love a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder. Prefer a more herby flavor? Toss in some dried oregano or thyme. Customizing the seasoning means you’ll always get a flavor profile that you adore!
Keep the chicken tenders in a single layer: Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. Giving those tenders space allows the hot air to circulate around them, ensuring they crisp up beautifully on all sides.
Flip halfway through cooking: This is essential to achieve that perfect crispiness. Flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time guarantees even browning. It’s a simple step that pays off big time!
Let them rest: Once your chicken tenders are done cooking, let them sit for a minute before serving. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the chicken, so they stay juicy and tender when you take that first bite.
Experiment with dipping sauces: Don’t forget to whip up some delicious dipping sauces! Whether it’s classic ranch, zesty honey mustard, or a spicy sriracha mayo, having a great sauce elevates the whole experience!

Keep these tips in mind, and you’ll be well on your way to making the most amazing Air Fryer Chicken Tenders that will impress everyone at your table. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders! It’s always nice to know what you’re putting into your body, right? Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutrition facts for a serving size of four tenders:

Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 100mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 20g

This makes for a delightful, protein-packed meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Just keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. So, whether you’re counting calories or just looking for a healthier option, you can savor these chicken tenders with confidence!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common questions I get, along with my answers to help you out.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Absolutely! If you have chicken breasts on hand, just cut them into strips to create your own tenders. Just be mindful that cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your strips.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can use crushed cornflakes or gluten-free breadcrumbs. You could even try using ground nuts or oats for a unique twist!
How do I know when the chicken tenders are done? The best way is to use a meat thermometer! You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, just look for that beautiful golden color and ensure they’re cooked through when you cut one open.
What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders? Oh, the possibilities are endless! I love pairing them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or even a spicy buffalo sauce. You could also whip up a creamy garlic dip or a zesty yogurt sauce for something a bit different!
Can I marinate the chicken before breading? Yes, yes, and yes! Marinating the chicken tenders for a couple of hours in buttermilk, lemon juice, or your favorite marinade adds incredible flavor. Just make sure to pat them dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks well.
Can I reheat leftover chicken tenders? Definitely! To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 350°F (175°C). This will help restore their crispiness, and they’ll taste almost as good as when they were fresh!

If you have more questions or need help while making your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, feel free to reach out! I love sharing tips and tricks to make your cooking experience as enjoyable as possible.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got those crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them to create a delicious meal that everyone will love! Trust me, the right sides can really elevate your dining experience.

Fresh Veggie Platter: Pair your chicken tenders with a colorful veggie platter. Think crunchy carrots, bell peppers, and cucumbers served with a zesty ranch or hummus dip. It adds a refreshing crunch and a pop of color to your plate!
Classic French Fries: You can’t go wrong with a side of fries! Whether you whip up some homemade sweet potato fries or classic golden fries in the air fryer, they make the perfect companion to your tenders.
Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw offers a nice contrast to the crunchiness of the chicken. The cool, tangy flavors help balance out the richness of the tenders, making every bite a delight!
Mac and Cheese: If you’re in the mood for comfort food, serve your chicken tenders with a side of creamy mac and cheese. It’s a kid-favorite combo that’s sure to please the whole family!
Salad: For a lighter option, toss together a vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette, and you’ve got a refreshing side that complements those tenders beautifully.
Dipping Sauces: Don’t forget the sauces! Set out a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and spicy ketchup. Let everyone customize their meal and enjoy the flavors they love!

With these serving suggestions, your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders will shine on the table, making for a fun and satisfying meal. Enjoy every crispy, tender bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a batch of those delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, and you’ve got some leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store them properly so they stay tasty for your next meal.

First off, let the chicken tenders cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make them soggy. Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container. If you’ve got a lot, you can layer them with parchment paper in between to keep them from sticking together.

Store your chicken tenders in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They should stay fresh for about 2-3 months in the freezer.

Now for the fun part—reh heating! To bring back that crispy goodness, your best bet is to use the air fryer again. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C) and pop those tenders in for about 5 minutes. They’ll come out nice and crunchy, just like when you first made them!

If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can reheat them in the oven as well. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place them on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. This will help them regain their crispiness without drying out.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders even after the initial feast. Happy munching!