Name: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenderloins; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 eggs, beaten; Cooking spray

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Juicy, crispy, and bursting with flavor, air fryer chicken tenders make for the perfect quick meal or party appetizer. This easy recipe offers a guilt-free twist on a classic favorite, allowing you to savor every delicious bite without the deep-frying process. The air fryer cooks chicken tenders to crispy perfection while keeping them moist and tender. Whether you’re dipping them in a tangy sauce or enjoying them plain, these chicken tenders are sure to please everyone at the table.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4
Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving: 320
Protein: 32 grams
Carbohydrates: 18 grams
Fat: 15 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 480 mg

Why Make This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Making air fryer chicken tenders is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier version of a beloved dish. The air fryer circulates hot air, allowing the chicken tenders to crisp up wonderfully without needing excess oil. What’s more, the blend of Parmesan cheese and spices gives these tenders a flavor boost that your whole family will love. This recipe is easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for entertaining guests.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

1 pound chicken tenderloins
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten
Cooking spray

Directions:

### Step 1: Preparing the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the chicken tenders start cooking immediately upon being placed in the basket, leading to a crispy exterior.

### Step 2: Mixing the Coating

In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed. The combination of flavors will create a crunchy and flavorful coating.

### Step 3: Coating the Chicken

Dip each chicken tenderloin into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press slightly to ensure the crumbs adhere well. Repeating this for each tenderloin will ensure even coverage and maximize that crispy texture.

### Step 4: Cooking the Chicken Tenders

Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not touching to allow for proper air circulation. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Cook the tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. When they are golden and fully cooked, they’ll be ready to enjoy.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Serve your air fryer chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce—traditional options include ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce. You can also pair them with a fresh salad or vegetable sticks for a complete meal. They work well as a main dish or as a fun snack during movie nights.

How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

If you have any leftovers, allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain their crispiness.

Expert Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk or a spice mix for a few hours before breading.
Experiment with different types of breadcrumbs, such as panko for added crunch.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches yields the best results.
If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.

Delicious Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free.
Spiced Chicken Tenders: Add some paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
Herbed Tenders: Add dried herbs, such as thyme or oregano, to the breadcrumb mixture for an herby flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins?
Yes, but they might need a few additional minutes of cooking time, so check for doneness with a meat thermometer (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
What dipping sauces pair well with chicken tenders?
Some popular options include ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, honey mustard, and buffalo sauce.
Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping once during cooking.
What do I do if the breading falls off during cooking?
Make sure the chicken is well-coated and allow it to sit for a few minutes after breading. Spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray to help the coating stick.
How long will the chicken tenders stay fresh?
Properly stored in an airtight container, they should remain good for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Conclusion

Air fryer chicken tenders are an easy and delicious way to bring a family favorite to your kitchen without the hassle of frying. With a crispy exterior and juicy inside, they’re perfect for any occasion—from a quick weeknight dinner to a weekend snack. Try this recipe today, and enjoy the delightful burst of flavors that come with each tender bite. Happy cooking!