Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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Nothing beats the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked chicken tenders, especially when they come out of the air fryer—crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and guilt-free! These crispy air fryer chicken tenders are a quick and easy meal that everyone in the family will love. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up a batch in no time. Plus, they make for a fantastic finger-food option for gatherings or game nights. Let’s dive into why these chicken tenders deserve a spot on your dinner table.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Crispy air fryer chicken tenders are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. The air fryer uses significantly less oil, resulting in a crunchy texture without the excess calories. This recipe is perfect for a weekday dinner, meal prep, or a kids’ lunchbox. The seasoning is simple yet packs a punch, making these tenderloins full of flavor. Whether you’re serving them with a side of veggies, fries, or dipping sauce, they will surely impress!

Ingredients

• 1 and ½ pounds chicken tenderloins (mini chicken fillets)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ cup (25 grams) dried breadcrumbs
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon chili powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt

How To Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by rinsing the chicken tenderloins under cold water to remove any residue. Pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving that coveted crispy texture.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a large bowl, drizzle the chicken tenderloins with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. This will help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken and also add some moisture. Toss them gently to coat evenly.

Step 3: Mix the Breadcrumb Coating

In a separate bowl, combine the dried breadcrumbs, paprika, chili powder, ground black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well until all the spices are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken tenderloin and dip it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them stick better. Place the coated chicken tenderloins on a plate or a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Preheating is essential as it allows for even cooking from the moment you add the chicken.

Step 6: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

Once the air fryer is preheated, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket of the air fryer. Make sure they are not overcrowded to allow for proper air circulation. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to do this in batches.

Step 7: Cooking Time

Cook the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The external layer should be golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. Enjoy your crispy homemade chicken tenders!

Expert Tips

• For an extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular dried breadcrumbs.
• Marinate the chicken in your favorite seasoning blend for an hour before breading for even more flavor.
• Don’t crowd the air fryer basket; give the chicken room to breathe for optimal crispiness.
• For meal prep, store uncooked, breaded tenders in the freezer and air fry them directly from frozen when needed.

Variations and Customizations

• Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy twist.
• Experiment with different spices such as Italian seasoning or Cajun seasoning for a flavor boost.
• Substitute chicken tenderloins with chicken breasts cut into strips for a different texture.
• Make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though we doubt you will!), let the chicken tenders cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat them in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C) to restore their crispiness. You can also reheat them in a conventional oven if the air fryer is unavailable.

FAQ

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenderloins?

Yes! You can cut chicken breasts into strips and follow the same recipe. Just remember that cooking time may vary slightly.

How do I make the chicken tenders spicy?

You can increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the olive oil before coating the chicken to give it a spicy kick.

What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?

Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, and even a spicy Sriracha mayo sauce.

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the tenders up to the point of cooking, then store them in the refrigerator for a day before air frying them when ready to serve.

Conclusion

Crispy air fryer chicken tenders are a delightful dish that brings together convenience and flavor. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a meal that will satisfy your cravings for something crunchy and delicious. Whether served as a main dish with sides or as a fun snack, these chicken tenders will be a hit in your home. So grab your air fryer, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a healthy and tempting treat the whole family will adore! Happy cooking!

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