Healthy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Juicy, and No Breading! 🍗
Looking for a healthier way to make crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders? The air fryer is your new best friend! With less oil and just as much flavor, these air fryer chicken tenders are an easy, quick, and healthier option for your next family meal or snack. The best part? They are perfectly crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and so simple to make!
Wait till you see the secret ingredient for extra tips to make the recipe perfect!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❤️
- Crispy & Juicy: The air fryer gives chicken tenders a crispy crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender.
- Quick & Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, these tenders are ready in less than 30 minutes.
- Healthier Option: By using the air fryer, you can reduce the amount of oil, making these chicken tenders a healthier option than traditional frying.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love them! Plus, they’re great for dipping in your favorite sauces.
- Customizable: You can add your favorite spices or use different breadcrumbs to adjust the flavor.
Ingredients 🍽️
Here’s everything you’ll need to make the perfect air fryer chicken tenders:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenders (boneless) | 1 lb (about 10 pieces) |
| All-purpose flour | 1 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large, beaten |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 1/2 cups |
| Parmesan cheese, grated | 1/2 cup |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | 1/2 tsp |
| Paprika | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/4 tsp |
| Olive oil spray | As needed |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders 🍗
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- Prep the chicken tenders: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps them crisp up in the air fryer.
- Season the chicken: Season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper for an extra burst of flavor.
Step 2: Set Up the Dredging Station
- Flour mixture: In a shallow bowl, place the all-purpose flour.
- Egg wash: In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- Breadcrumb mixture: In another shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Coat the chicken: First, dip each chicken tender into the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated. Shake off any excess.
- Dip in egg wash: Next, dip the chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess egg to drip off.
- Coat with breadcrumbs: Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, coating it evenly on all sides.
Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes.
- Arrange the chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Make sure there’s space between each tender for even cooking.
- Cook: Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve hot: Remove the tenders from the air fryer, garnish with a sprinkle of parsley, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce!
Recipe Notes ✨
Don’t skip the storage trick — it’s at the end of the post!
- Flavor variations: You can adjust the seasoning by adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or use Italian seasoning for an herby flavor.
- Breadcrumb alternatives: If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers for a different texture.
Time and Servings ⏲️🍴
| Time | Duration |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 12 minutes |
| Total Time | 22 minutes |
| Servings | 4 servings |
Serving Suggestions 🥗🍖
Serve these crispy chicken tenders with:
- Sauces: Try dipping them in honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or a spicy buffalo sauce for extra flavor.
- Side Dishes: Pair with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
- Drinks: A cold glass of iced tea or lemonade complements this dish perfectly.
How to Store and Reheat 🏠🔥
Storage:
Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
To keep the tenders crispy, reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, you can use an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
Extra Tips to Make the Recipe Perfect 👩🍳
- Secret ingredient: A touch of Parmesan cheese in the breadcrumb mixture adds a rich, savory flavor to the tenders.
- Crispy finish: For an even crispier coating, give the tenders a quick spray of olive oil right before air frying.
Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌
- Overcrowding the basket: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave some space between each tender for the hot air to circulate, ensuring they cook evenly.
- Skipping the flour coating: The flour helps the egg wash and breadcrumbs stick, giving you that perfect crispy crust.
- Not preheating the air fryer: Preheating ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately and gets that crispy texture.
FAQs 🤔
Q1: Can I use frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer. Simply increase the cooking time to 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Q2: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the flour is gluten-free to make this recipe gluten-free.
Q3: How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?
Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is fully cooked.
Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Cook them just before serving for the best texture.
Q5: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just cut them into strips and adjust the cooking time to 12-15 minutes, depending on the thickness of the strips.
Final Thoughts 🌟
These air fryer chicken tenders are a game-changer when it comes to easy, healthy, and delicious meals. With a perfect crispy coating and juicy chicken inside, they’re a great option for weeknight dinners, parties, or any time you want a quick bite. Whether you’re serving them as a snack or as part of a full meal, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Enjoy making them, and don’t forget the secret ingredient for an even better crunch!
