Craving something crispy yet healthy? These air fryer chicken tenders are the answer! Juicy chicken coated in a crunchy breading makes for a delightful dish that’s quick to prepare. With the air fryer, you can achieve that perfect golden brown exterior without the excess oil. Let’s dive into this easy and delicious recipe that your whole family will love!
Ingredients
Chicken tenders, breadcrumbs, eggs, flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, cooking spray, and optional dipping sauces.
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 12 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 4 tenders) contains approximately:
– Calories: 300
– Protein: 25g
– Fat: 10g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fiber: 2g
This is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station: place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
- Season the chicken tenders with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each tender in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured tender into the beaten eggs.
- Finally, coat the tender in breadcrumbs, pressing firmly to adhere.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the breaded tenders in the basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.
- Remove from the air fryer and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken tenders with chicken breasts cut into strips. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of regular flour, and gluten-free breadcrumbs for coating.
Serving and Pairings
These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a side of coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh salad. Dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce complement them perfectly.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes until heated through. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the air fryer can result in uneven cooking.
- Overcrowding the basket will prevent tenders from becoming crispy.
- Skipping the flour step may lead to soggy breading.
- Not using enough cooking spray can cause the tenders to stick.
- Using cold chicken can lead to longer cooking times.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours.
- Experiment with different spices in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Let tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking for juicier results.
- Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
FAQs
Can I cook frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer. Just increase the cooking time to about 15-18 minutes at 400°F (200°C, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
How do I make the breading extra crispy?
To achieve extra crispy breading, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs and spray the tenders with cooking spray before cooking.
What dipping sauces go well with chicken tenders?
Popular dipping sauces include honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, and sweet and sour sauce. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with turkey, pork, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times as necessary.
How long does it take for the air fryer to preheat?
Preheating an air fryer typically takes about 3-5 minutes, depending on the model. It’s a good idea to preheat for optimal cooking results.
Conclusion
Air fryer chicken tenders are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. Quick to prepare and irresistibly crispy, these tenders will become a family favorite in no time. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and dipping sauces to make this dish your own!
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs beaten
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Cooking spray
- Dipping sauces optional
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs.
- Season chicken tenders with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each tender in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured tender into the beaten eggs.
- Coat the tender in breadcrumbs, pressing firmly.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the tenders in the basket in a single layer.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from air fryer and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.