About Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier twist on a classic favorite. These tenders are made from juicy, boneless chicken breasts that are sliced into strips, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, and cooked to golden perfection in an air fryer. The result is a crispy exterior that gives way to tender, flavorful chicken inside, without the need for deep frying in oil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun family meal, or a tasty appetizer, these air fryer chicken tenders are sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy a satisfying, guilt-free treat.
Customize Your Chicken Tenders with Three Marinade Options
This recipe unlocks three ways to create crispy, juicy air fryer chicken tenders at home, from healthy and un breaded to extra crispy and panko-crusted.
This recipe lets you make restaurant-quality chicken tenders at home in just a few minutes. It’s super versatile because you can choose from three different marinades:
1. Classic:Â Buttermilk, paprika, salt and pepper for a simple and flavorful tender.
2. Asian-inspired:Â Ginger, garlic, chili flakes, lemon juice, and cumin for a kick.
3. Sweet and tangy: Honey and lemon juice with hot spices for a unique twist.
Keto-Friendly Option:
With a few adjustments, you can create delicious keto air fryer chicken tenders in your air fryer. Simply swap out traditional breadcrumbs for a low-carb alternative like almond flour or crushed pork rinds.
This recipe isn’t just about healthy options, it’s about creating the absolute best air fryer chicken tenders you’ve ever tasted like our keto friendly Ginger-Lemon flavored Baked Chicken Wings and Keto Coconut Cookies.
We’ll guide you through the simple process of how to cook chicken tenders in your air fryer, from prepping the chicken to achieving that perfect crispy golden brown exterior.
Time is Money:
Wondering how long to cook chicken tenders in an air fryer? We’ve got you covered! This recipe includes specific cooking times and temperatures to ensure your tenders cook through perfectly without drying out.
Leftovers? No Problem!
Made a big batch? Learn how to reheat air fryer chicken tenders in your air fryer to bring back that crispy perfection.
Reheat leftover chicken tenders in your air fryer for a quick and crispy revival! Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), arrange the tenders in a single layer, spritz with oil (optional) for extra crisp, and air fry for 3-5 minutes each side flipping halfway.
Check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety before devouring!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Can I use chicken thighs instead?
Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be substituted. However, they may take slightly longer to cook through due to their higher fat content.
How do I know the chicken is cooked through?Â
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Can I freeze leftover tenders?
Yes, allow tenders to cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until warmed through.
Get ready to enjoy restaurant-quality chicken tenders at home? This air fryer Chicken Tenders recipe is your secret weapon
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Air fryer Chicken Tenders (3 ways easy recipe)
Description
Crispy, juicy, and irresistibly delicious, these air fryer chicken tenders are a game-changer for your mealtime routine. Coated in a flavorful blend of spices and breadcrumbs, they achieve a perfect golden-brown crust without the need for deep frying. Ready in under 30 minutes, these tenders are a healthier alternative that doesn't compromise on taste.
Method:1 ( Healthy, Keto friendly)
Method : 2 (Asian spiced with breading)
For breading
Method : 3 (Sweet & Sour with out breading)
Instructions
Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe with 3 Unique Marinades
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Marinate chicken tenders:
Â
1.Grab a zip-lock bag this will keep everything contained and make mixing easy.
2. Pour in your favorite marinade.Â
3. Add the chicken tenders, toss them in the bag with the marinade. Make sure the bag is sealed tightly, then massage the bag gently to evenly coat the chicken tenders with the marinade.
4. Put the bag in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour. For even deeper flavor, marinate for up to 24 hours.
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Breading:
1.Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge 30 minutes before frying or baking for even cooking.
2.Breaded:Â Follow your preferred breading recipe. Here are two options:
3. Keto Breading: In one shallow bowl, whisk 2Â eggs. In another, spread out 1 cup of almond flour. Dip each chicken tender in the egg, letting excess drip off, then coat evenly in almond flour. Repeat for a thicker crust (optional).
4. Panko Breading:Â In one bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, spices, and chicken powder. In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with herbs. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, then dip in cold water, and finally coat generously in the panko mixture.
5. Skip the Breading: For a healthier option, skip the breading, simply spray your air fryer basket with cooking oil for a non-stick surface, arrange the marinated chicken tenders and air fry for golden perfection.
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Air Fry Chicken Tenders:
1. Spray the basket with oil then arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, avoid overlapping to ensures even air circulation for crispy results.
2. Cooking time: Air fry for 5 to 6 minutes on each side at 200c, turning halfway. OR
You can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
3. Safety check: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
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Serving Suggestions
Pairing Options: Pair these delicious air fry chicken tenders with Crispy French Fries, Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Gravy. Roasted Vegetables, Fresh Fruits and vegetable Salads
Dipping Options:Â
- Ketchup, Honey Mustard, Ranch Dressing.
- Â Buffalo Sauce for a fiery kick.
- Â Cheese Dip or Yogurt Sauce for a cool contrast.
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 225kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 10g16%
- Saturated Fat 4g20%
- Sodium 300mg13%
- Total Carbohydrate 20g7%
- Dietary Fiber 2g8%
- Sugars 0.8g
- Protein 20g40%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- For even cooking, try to cut the chicken tenders into similar thicknesses.Â
- Marinating for at least 30 minutes helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. Marinate chicken tenders overnight for deeper flavor and increased tenderness.
- Â For a healthier twist, use whole-wheat flour or almond flour for dredging, or skip the breading.
- Cool tenders completely before storing in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or air fryer.
- Experiment with different seasonings in your marinade.
