Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: The Best Easy Recipe
Are you ready to take your weeknight dinners to the next level? Look no further than this easy air fryer chicken tenders recipe! These chicken tenders are not only crispy and flavorful but also much healthier than their deep-fried counterparts. Perfect for family dinners, game days, or as a quick snack, this is one dish that will satisfy everyone’s cravings!
Why Chicken Tenders Are So Popular
What makes chicken tenders a go-to dish for many? It’s simple: they’re versatile, quick to cook, and loved by both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re packing them in lunchboxes, serving them at a party, or simply craving a crunchy snack, chicken tenders fit the bill. Plus, with this air fryer method, you can enjoy all that golden crispiness without the added grease.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to make the best crispy air fryer chicken tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders (about 10 tenderloins)
- 1 cup buttermilk (for marinating)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best for extra crunch)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Cooking spray (or olive oil spray)
Optional for Extra Flavor
- Parmesan cheese (for a cheesy twist)
- Spices like cayenne pepper (for a kick)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- Marinade Time: In a bowl, combine the chicken tenders and buttermilk. Allow them to soak for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator. This step ensures juicy, flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
- Breading Setup: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If you’re using Parmesan or additional spices, mix them in at this point.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Dredging Process: Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, letting excess liquid drip off. Dredge each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
Step 4: Air Fry the Tenders
- Cooking Time: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Lightly spray them with cooking spray for that perfect crisp! Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
- Serving Suggestion: Once they’re done, remove the chicken tenders and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.
Tips & Variations
- Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free options. There are plenty of great blends available!
- Spice It Up: Experiment with different spices and seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture. Try adding Italian herbs or even a dash of curry powder for a unique twist.
- Serve with Sides: Pair your crispy chicken tenders with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or sweet potato fries for a balanced meal.
- Meal Prep: Cook a double batch for a quick lunch throughout the week. Just reheat in the air fryer for 5 minutes to restore that crispy texture.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve mastered how to make air fryer chicken tenders, it’s time to gather your loved ones and enjoy a delicious meal that’s sure to impress! Try it and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends, and keep an eye out for more delicious, easy recipes that make cooking fun and enjoyable. Happy cooking! 🥳