Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

In recent years, air fryers have revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods while still delivering crispy, delicious results. One of the most beloved dishes that can be made in an air fryer is chicken tenders. These golden, crunchy morsels are not just a favorite among kids but also a go-to for adults looking for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing for a family dinner, hosting a game day gathering, or meal prepping for the week, air fryer chicken tenders are a versatile choice that never disappoints.

Discover the secret to making crispy air fryer chicken tenders with this easy guide! These tender, golden bites are not only a hit with kids but also make for a quick, satisfying meal for adults. Using a simple marinade and panko breadcrumb coating, you can achieve that crave-worthy crunch without the excess oil. Perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prep, these healthier chicken tenders are sure to impress. Dive into the recipe and enjoy delicious comfort food guilt-free!

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Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenderloins

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

Cooking spray (or olive oil spray)

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours) to tenderize and flavor the chicken.

Prepare the Coating: Set up a dredging station by placing flour in one shallow bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in a third bowl.

Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess liquid to drip off. First, dredge each piece in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Cook the Chicken Tenders: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t touch. Spray the tops of the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray as well.

Air Fry: Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer for 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time and spray again with cooking spray to ensure even crispiness. Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serve: Once done, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4