Chicken Tenders Recipes Air Fryer: 5 Steps to Crispy Perfection

Name: Chicken Tenders Recipes Air Fryer: 5 Steps to Crispy Perfection
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Cooking spray

By:

Christina R. Jones

July 12, 2025

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Oh my goodness, if you haven’t jumped on the air fryer bandwagon yet, you’re seriously missing out! Imagine biting into perfectly crispy chicken tenders, golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside, all made with way less oil than traditional frying. It’s like magic! I absolutely love how my air fryer makes cooking so much easier and faster. I can whip up these chicken tenders recipes air fryer style in just about 27 minutes, from start to finish. Plus, the clean-up is a breeze! My kids can’t get enough of these tenders, and honestly, I can’t blame them. The aroma wafting through the kitchen as they cook is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. There’s just something so satisfying about creating a delicious meal with minimal fuss, and trust me, this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for Chicken Tenders Recipes Air Fryer

Let’s gather our star players for these amazing chicken tenders! You won’t need a long list, just some simple ingredients that come together to create crispy perfection.

1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips: Make sure to slice your chicken into even strips for consistent cooking. I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this – they’re so tender!
1 cup breadcrumbs: I recommend using plain or seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your flavor preference. They give that extra crunch that makes these tenders irresistible!
1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: This is where the magic happens! Parmesan adds a wonderful nutty flavor and helps create that golden crust. Trust me, you’ll want to sprinkle this generously.
2 eggs, beaten: The egg wash is crucial for helping the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken. Make sure they’re well-beaten for even coverage.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Just a hint of garlic to elevate the flavor! You can adjust this if you’re a garlic lover like me.
1 teaspoon paprika: This adds a lovely color and subtle smokiness. Feel free to use smoked paprika for an extra kick!
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t skip this step! Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors in every bite.
Cooking spray: A light mist of cooking spray helps those tenders crisp up beautifully without sticking. It’s a game changer!

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create some mouthwatering chicken tenders that your family will adore!

How to Prepare Chicken Tenders Recipes Air Fryer

Alright, it’s time to get our hands a little messy and whip up these chicken tenders! Follow these straightforward steps, and you’ll have a batch of crispy tenders ready to enjoy in no time.

Preheat Your Air Fryer

First things first, let’s get that air fryer preheating! Set it to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is super important because it helps ensure your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden crisp on the outside. While it’s heating up, you can get everything else ready!

Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine your breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir them together until they’re well mixed – this coating is where all the flavor comes from! I like to use a fork to really get everything blended well. You want every bite to be delicious.

Coat the Chicken Strips

Now, grab those chicken strips! Dip each one into the beaten eggs, making sure to coat them thoroughly. Then, transfer them to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well. You want a nice, even layer on each strip – that’s what makes them so crispy!

Arrange in the Air Fryer

Once all your chicken strips are coated, it’s time to arrange them in the air fryer basket. Make sure to place them in a single layer, giving them a little space to breathe. This helps them cook evenly and get nice and crispy. Don’t overcrowd the basket if you want that golden goodness!

Cooking Instructions

Now, pop those chicken tenders in the air fryer and cook them for 10-12 minutes. Be sure to flip them halfway through for that even browning. When they’re golden brown and crispy, check for doneness by cutting into one – it should be juicy and cooked through. If your strips are thicker, you might need to add an extra minute or two. Just watch them closely! Then, get ready to dig in!

Tips for Success with Chicken Tenders Recipes Air Fryer

Let me share some of my favorite tips to make sure your chicken tenders turn out absolutely perfect every time! These little tidbits can really elevate your dish and impress everyone at the dinner table.

Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have a bit of time, consider marinating the chicken strips in buttermilk for about 30 minutes before breading. This adds moisture and flavor that really takes the tenders up a notch!
Customize Your Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to get creative with the spices! You can add cayenne pepper for a kick or some Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile. Tailor the seasoning to your family’s taste buds!
Adjust Cooking Time: Keep an eye on those tenders, especially if you’re using thicker strips. Depending on your air fryer’s strength, you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Always check for that beautiful golden brown color and juicy inside!
Double Coating for Extra Crunch: For an even crispier texture, consider double-coating your chicken. Just dip them in the egg wash and breadcrumb mixture a second time after the first coating. It’s a little extra work, but oh-so-worth it!
Let Them Rest: After cooking, let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before digging in. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

With these tips, you’ll be on your way to making the best chicken tenders around. Trust me, everyone will be asking for your secret!

Nutritional Information for Chicken Tenders Recipes Air Fryer

When it comes to enjoying delicious chicken tenders, knowing the nutritional information can help you make informed choices! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values for one serving of these crispy chicken tenders made in the air fryer:

Calories: 350
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 150mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 30g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 1g
Protein: 30g

Please note that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients or portion sizes. However, these chicken tenders are a delightful low-calorie option that doesn’t skimp on flavor, allowing you to indulge without feeling guilty!

FAQ about Chicken Tenders Recipes Air Fryer

Got questions about making these chicken tenders in your air fryer? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I’ve come across and my go-to answers to help you out.

How do I adjust the cooking time for thicker chicken strips?

If you’re working with thicker chicken strips, it’s best to add an extra minute or two to the cooking time. Start with the recommended 10-12 minutes, but keep an eye on them. You want that beautiful golden brown color and juicy inside. Just make sure to check for doneness by cutting into one!

Can I use other types of breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different breadcrumbs like panko for an extra crunch or even whole wheat options for a healthier twist. Just remember that seasoned breadcrumbs will add more flavor, so adjust your spices accordingly if you go with plain!

What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?

Oh, the possibilities are endless! My family loves classic options like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. But if you’re feeling adventurous, a spicy Sriracha mayo or tangy buffalo sauce can really take things up a notch. Get creative and serve a few different sauces for a fun dipping experience!

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can! You can bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking. Just make sure to cover them well so they don’t dry out. When you’re ready to cook, pop them in the air fryer straight from the fridge – no need to let them come to room temperature!

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture. You can also use the oven if you don’t have an air fryer handy, just keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: These chicken tenders come together in just about 27 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without the hassle.
Healthier Alternative to Frying: Using an air fryer means you can enjoy crispy chicken tenders with significantly less oil, so you can indulge without the guilt!
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these tenders. They’re tender, crunchy, and just plain fun to eat, especially with a variety of dipping sauces!
Versatile for Different Dips: Serve these tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, from classic honey mustard to zesty buffalo sauce, making every meal feel like a special treat.
Easy Clean-Up: With the air fryer, you’ll spend less time scrubbing pots and pans. Just a quick rinse of the basket, and you’re done!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

So, you’ve made a delicious batch of chicken tenders, and now you’ve got some leftovers! No worries – I’ve got the perfect tips for storing and reheating them so they stay crispy and tasty.

First, let those chicken tenders cool down to room temperature. Once they’re cool, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I like to layer parchment paper between the tenders if I’m stacking them. This helps prevent them from sticking together, which can make reheating a bit tricky.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, the best way to reheat them is right back in the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and pop the tenders in for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy again. This method really brings back that fresh-out-of-the-air-fryer crunch!

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can also use the oven. Just spread them out on a baking sheet and heat at 400°F (200°C) for around 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure even crisping. Whatever method you choose, just be sure to keep an eye on them so they don’t dry out.

With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll be able to enjoy your chicken tenders just as much the second time around! Trust me, they’re worth it!

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