Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: 5 Reasons You’ll Love Them

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: 5 Reasons You'll Love Them
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken fillet, cut into strips; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 9, 2025

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

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about air fryer chicken tenders! These little gems are the ultimate combination of crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. The first time I tried making them, I was a bit skeptical—how could a kitchen gadget create that beloved fried texture without all the grease? But wow, was I in for a delicious surprise! The moment I took that first bite, I was hooked. The crunch, the flavor, the tender chicken—it all just came together perfectly.

Now, they’re a staple in my home. My kids practically beg for them, and I love how easy they are to whip up. They’re my go-to for a quick weeknight dinner or when we have friends over. Just serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, and I promise they disappear faster than you can say “air fryer chicken tenders!” Plus, the best part? I can feel good about serving them since they’re much healthier than traditional frying methods. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a family favorite too!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to create those scrumptious air fryer chicken tenders:

1 pound chicken fillet, cut into strips: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast for the juiciest tenders. Cutting them into even strips ensures they cook evenly!
1 cup breadcrumbs: I love using panko breadcrumbs for that extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well. Feel free to use seasoned ones for an added flavor kick!
1/2 cup flour: All-purpose flour creates a nice base for the coating. You can also use gluten-free flour if you’re looking to keep it gluten-free.
2 large eggs, beaten: These help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken strips. Make sure they’re well-beaten for a smooth coating.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a lovely depth of flavor. If you’re a garlic lover like me, don’t hesitate to add a little more!
1 teaspoon paprika: I like to use smoked paprika for that subtle smokiness, but regular paprika will work just fine too.
Salt and pepper to taste: Always season your flour mixture well—this is the key to flavorful chicken tenders!

Gather these ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to crispy, juicy perfection in no time!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Now, let’s dive into how to whip up these amazing air fryer chicken tenders! It’s really straightforward, and I promise you’ll feel like a pro in no time.

Preheat the air fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial! Preheating ensures your chicken tenders cook evenly and get that golden, crispy exterior we all love.
Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir! This mixture is what will give your chicken that flavorful coating.
Coat the chicken: Take each chicken strip and dip it into the flour mixture first. Make sure it’s evenly coated, then dip it into the beaten eggs. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumbs until fully covered. I like to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to really lock in that crunchy texture!
Arrange in the air fryer: Place your coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd them; give them space to breathe and crisp up. You may need to cook in batches if you have a lot!
Cook them up: Set the air fryer to cook for 10-12 minutes. Make sure to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time. This ensures both sides are perfectly golden and crispy. Keep an eye on them, as cooking times can vary depending on the thickness of your chicken strips.
Check for doneness: When the time is up, check that the tenders are cooked through and golden brown. They should be juicy on the inside—no one wants dry chicken tenders!
Serve and enjoy: Once done, serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Wow, they’re going to disappear quickly!

And there you have it! Follow these steps, and you’ll have the most delicious air fryer chicken tenders ready to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: You can whip up these air fryer chicken tenders in just about 27 minutes from start to finish, making them perfect for busy weeknights!
Easy cleanup: With minimal mess and no greasy pans to scrub, clean-up is a breeze. Just a quick wash of your mixing bowls and air fryer basket, and you’re done!
Healthier than frying: Using an air fryer means you get that satisfying crunch without the excess oil. You can enjoy crispy chicken tenders guilt-free!
Deliciously crispy: Thanks to the air fryer’s magic, these tenders come out perfectly golden and crispy every single time. Trust me, they taste like they were deep-fried!
Versatile for dipping sauces: From classic ranch to zesty buffalo sauce or sweet honey mustard, the dipping options are endless! You can cater to everyone’s taste preferences.

These reasons alone make air fryer chicken tenders a must-try in your kitchen. You’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again!

Tips for Success

To make sure your air fryer chicken tenders turn out perfectly every time, here are some handy tips that I’ve picked up along the way:

Achieve the right coating texture: For that delightful crunch, make sure your chicken strips are well-coated in each layer. After dipping in the flour mixture, let any excess flour shake off before dipping into the egg. This helps the breadcrumbs stick better. When you roll the chicken in the breadcrumbs, press them firmly onto the chicken for maximum crunch!
Adjust cooking times based on thickness: If your chicken strips are thicker than about half an inch, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on them! If they’re extra thick, try cutting them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: It’s tempting to fit as many tenders as possible, but for the crispiest results, give them space! Arrange them in a single layer and cook in batches if needed. This allows hot air to circulate around each piece, giving that beautiful golden finish.
Check for doneness: Always make sure to check that your chicken is fully cooked by cutting into one of the tenders. The juices should run clear, and the meat should be opaque. If you have a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Experiment with seasonings: Don’t be afraid to play around with the seasonings in your flour mixture! Add some Italian herbs, cayenne pepper for a kick, or even some grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor. The possibilities are endless!

With these tips in hand, you’re well on your way to creating air fryer chicken tenders that are not only delicious but also perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

Now, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into these air fryer chicken tenders! Here’s an estimated breakdown based on the ingredients used for a serving size of one portion:

Calories: Approximately 300
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 70mg
Sodium: 600mg
Total Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 25g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands of ingredients you use and any modifications you might make. But overall, these air fryer chicken tenders are a delicious, guilt-free option that packs a protein punch while keeping things light and crispy!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the best air fryer chicken tenders? I’ve got you covered! Here are some of the most common queries I get, along with my trusty answers:

Can I use frozen chicken strips? Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken strips, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Cook them for about 12-15 minutes at 400°F (200°C), flipping halfway through. Just keep an eye on them until they’re golden and cooked through!
How do I make them gluten-free? To keep things gluten-free, swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs. There are plenty of great options out there that will still give you that delicious crunch!
What dipping sauces pair well with them? Oh, the possibilities are endless! Classic ranch and honey mustard are always crowd-pleasers. If you’re feeling adventurous, try buffalo sauce for a spicy kick or a sweet chili sauce for something different. You can’t go wrong!
Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer? Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and bake them on a lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crispy as in the air fryer, but they’ll still be delicious!
How do I store leftovers? If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), let them cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain that crispy goodness!

These answers should help you tackle any concerns while making your air fryer chicken tenders! Happy cooking, and enjoy those crispy bites!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing leftover air fryer chicken tenders is super easy, and I’ve got just the tips to keep them crispy and delicious for later! First, let the tenders cool completely before storing them. This helps prevent condensation in the container, which can make them soggy.

Once they’re cool, place them in an airtight container. I like to layer them with parchment paper between each layer to help maintain that crunch. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember, they’re best enjoyed fresh, but I promise they’ll still taste great as leftovers!

Now, when it comes to reheating, the air fryer is your best friend! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and place the chicken tenders in the basket in a single layer. Heat them for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method revives their crispy coating and keeps the chicken juicy inside. You won’t even know they were leftovers!

If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also reheat them in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lay the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping once, until they’re heated through and crispy again.

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your air fryer chicken tenders any day of the week without losing that fantastic texture!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve got those crispy air fryer chicken tenders ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve them with! The right sides can really elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable.

Coleslaw: A classic pairing! The crunchy, tangy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the crispy tenders. You can go with a creamy dressing or a tangy vinegar-based one—either way, it’s a perfect match!
French fries: Who doesn’t love fries? Whether you go for classic potato fries, sweet potato fries, or even zucchini fries, they make for a delicious side that everyone will love. You could even toss them in the air fryer for that extra crispy touch!
Vegetable sticks: A colorful assortment of carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper sticks not only looks appealing but also adds a healthy crunch. Pair them with a tasty dip like ranch or hummus for a fabulous combo!
Macaroni and cheese: For a heartier meal, serve your chicken tenders alongside some creamy mac and cheese. The cheesy goodness complements the tender chicken perfectly!
Mixed green salad: A light salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the chicken. Toss in some avocado or nuts for added texture and flavor.

These sides are not only delicious but also super easy to whip up alongside your air fryer chicken tenders. Trust me, they’ll take your meal to the next level and keep everyone coming back for more!

Variations

Feeling adventurous in the kitchen? There are so many fun ways to switch up these air fryer chicken tenders and keep things exciting! Here are some ideas to get your creativity flowing:

Spice it up: Want to give your tenders an extra kick? Try adding some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy version. If you’re a fan of heat, you won’t be disappointed! Alternatively, you could mix in some Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a Mediterranean twist.
Change the chicken: While I love using chicken breast, you can also try using chicken thighs for a richer flavor. Thighs are juicier and can add a whole new level of tenderness to your tenders. Just make sure to cut them into strips similar to the breast for even cooking!
Try different coatings: Instead of breadcrumbs, experiment with crushed cornflakes or even crushed potato chips for a unique crunch. The flavors of the chips can add a delightful twist that’s sure to surprise your taste buds!
Sweet and savory: For a different flavor profile, consider adding a touch of honey or maple syrup to the egg mixture. This creates a nice balance of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory spices!
Explore sauces: Don’t forget about the dipping sauces! Try serving your chicken tenders with a zesty chipotle mayo, a creamy avocado dip, or even a tangy barbecue sauce. You could even set up a dipping station with a variety of sauces to please everyone at the table!

These variations not only keep your meals exciting but also allow you to tailor the recipe to your tastes and preferences. So go ahead, mix things up and enjoy your air fryer chicken tenders in new and delicious ways!