Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: Your Quick & Tasty Win!

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Hey there, kitchen buddy!

Ready to turn juicy chicken tenders into something spectacular without a mountain of dirty dishes? These air fryer chicken tenders are your new best friend—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and totally doable in under 30 minutes! The best part? They’re seasoned with simple pantry staples, so no special trips needed.

Imagine that irresistible aroma—warm, savory, with a hint of garlic and a punchy crunch in every bite. And trust me, these tenders pack a flavor punch that might just make store-bought versions jealous. Play around with your favorite dipping sauces, or toss them into a crisp salad for a quick lunch.

If you love this, you might want to pair it with a zesty salsa or a homemade honey mustard. Enough talk—let’s get those tenders sizzling. Ready, set, cook!

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

This dish features chicken tenders seasoned with simple spices, coated in a breading, and cooked in an air fryer until crispy. The final product has a golden crust with juicy, tender meat inside, presenting a visually appealing and crunchy texture. The method involves marinating, breading, and air frying for a health-conscious, flavorful meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken tenders strips of chicken breast
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour for coating
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1.5 cups bread crumbs panko preferred for extra crunch
  • 1 teaspoon paprika optional for flavor
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder adds savory flavor
  • to taste salt and pepper season to preference
  • Spray oil cooking spray for crispiness

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Measuring spoons
  • Shallow dish or plate

Method
 

  1. Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with paprika and garlic powder. Arrange the chicken tenders on a plate.
  2. Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour, coating evenly until lightly dusted, then dip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly in the seasoned bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Place the breaded tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray for added crispiness.
  4. Cook the tenders in the air fryer for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Expect to hear a crisping sound and see a uniform golden color.
  5. Remove the tenders from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces or chop into salads.

These air fryer chicken tenders are a total game-changer—crispy, flavorful, and super easy! Serve them up with a side of crunchy veggies or your favorite dip, and you’ve got a winning meal in no time. Don’t forget to leave a comment or share your own twist—happy cooking, friend!

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