Craving perfectly crispy chicken tenders without the mess and oil of deep-frying? Look no further! This recipe delivers juicy, perfectly seasoned air fryer chicken tenders in a fraction of the time. It’s a healthier, quicker alternative to traditional frying, perfect for busy weeknights. Research from MedicalNewsToday highlights that air-fried foods generally have lower fat content than deep-fried alternatives. Get ready to enjoy incredibly simple, delicious chicken that your whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These air fryer chicken tenders are a game-changer for quick meals.
- Ultimate Crispiness: Achieve that coveted golden, crunchy exterior every time.
- Effortless & Quick Preparation: From prep to plate in under 20 minutes, ideal for busy schedules.
- Healthier Alternative: Enjoy delicious tenders with significantly less oil than deep-frying.
- Simple Pantry Ingredients: You likely have most of the seasonings already in your kitchen.
- Versatile for Any Meal: Great as a main dish, in salads, wraps, or as an appetizer.
- Kid-Friendly Favorite: A guaranteed hit with even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients
Gather these simple ingredients to create your mouthwatering air fryer chicken tenders:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless, chicken tenderloins
- 1 TBS olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp oregano
- Oil spray (like avocado or olive oil spray)
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Notes & Substitutions
You can easily adjust these ingredients to fit your pantry and preferences.
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch strips work wonderfully if tenderloins are unavailable.
- Oil: Avocado or vegetable oil are excellent alternatives to olive oil for coating the chicken.
- Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the amounts to your taste. For a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Dried Herbs: A pre-made Italian seasoning blend can substitute for individual dried oregano.
- Oil spray: This is essential for achieving a truly golden-brown and crispy exterior on your tenders.
Equipment
You won’t need much to make these delicious chicken tenders.
- Air fryer: Either a basket-style or oven-style model works great.
- Large mixing bowl: For tossing the chicken with oil and seasonings.
- Measuring spoons: To accurately measure your seasonings.
- Tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken safely in the hot air fryer.
- Meat thermometer: Crucial for ensuring your chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.
Instructions
Follow these easy steps to make the best air fryer chicken tenders right at home. This beginner-friendly guide ensures perfect results every time.
First, prepare your chicken. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better and promote crispiness. Trim any excess fat if needed.
Next, coat the chicken. Place the chicken tenderloins in a medium-sized bowl. Add the 1 tablespoon of olive oil and lightly toss to coat each piece evenly.
Now, season the chicken. In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Mix these dry seasonings together thoroughly.
Evenly coat the tenders. Sprinkle the seasoning mix generously over the oiled chicken in the bowl. Toss lightly again, ensuring every tenderloin is well-coated with the flavorful spice blend.
Prepare your air fryer. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray. This prevents sticking and helps achieve a beautiful golden crust on your air fryer chicken tenders.
Arrange the tenders. Place the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the prepared air fryer basket. Make sure they aren’t overlapping; overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness. Work in batches if necessary.
First cook cycle. Close the air fryer and set the temperature to 380°F (195°C). Cook the chicken tenders for 7 minutes.
Flip the tenders. Carefully open the air fryer basket. Using tongs, flip each chicken tender over to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides.
Second cook cycle. Close the air fryer and continue to cook for an additional 3-5 minutes at 380°F (195°C). The exact time depends on the thickness of your tenders and your air fryer model.
Check for doneness. The most crucial step! Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the thickest part of a tender. The chicken is done when it reaches 165°F (74°C). The USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service recommends cooking all poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
Finally, rest and serve. Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the air fryer. Let them rest on a plate for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. If desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Enjoy your perfect air fryer chicken tenders!
Pro Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Achieve restaurant-quality results every time with these helpful hints.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in batches if needed, ensuring a single layer for optimal airflow and crispiness.
- Preheat your air fryer: A preheated air fryer helps the chicken cook more evenly and develop a better crust faster.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Adjust cooking time: Thicker tenders may need an extra minute or two, while thinner ones might cook faster.
- Flip halfway: Turning the tenders ensures both sides get direct heat, leading to even crispiness and browning.
- Consider brining for extra juiciness: A quick brine in saltwater can make your chicken incredibly moist.
- Spray with oil for golden finish: A light spray of oil on the chicken during cooking helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown color.
- Allow tenders to rest briefly: Resting the chicken after cooking keeps them juicy and flavorful.
Serving Suggestions
These versatile air fryer chicken tenders pair well with so many dishes.
Dipping Sauces
Offer a variety of dipping sauces like classic honey mustard, creamy ranch, tangy BBQ sauce, or spicy Buffalo sauce. Try a homemade Chick-fil-A style sauce for a special treat.
Side Dishes
Serve your tenders with crispy French fries, roasted sweet potato wedges, creamy mac & cheese, a fresh pasta salad, or simple steamed corn. A light side salad balances the meal nicely.
Meal Ideas
Transform leftovers into new meals. Slice the chicken tenders for a delicious Buffalo chicken salad, or shred them for hearty wraps and sandwiches. They also make a fantastic addition to quesadillas.
Storage & Reheating
Proper storage ensures your delicious air fryer chicken tenders stay fresh and ready for your next meal.
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
Refrigeration
Store the container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked tenders for up to 3 months. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
Reheating in Air Fryer
For best results, reheat your air fryer chicken tenders at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Other Reheating Options
You can also bake these chicken tenders instead in a conventional oven at 375°F for 10-15 minutes, or quickly in the microwave (though they won’t be as crispy).
Variations
Get creative with your chicken tenders and try these delicious twists!
- Breaded Tenders: For extra crunch, dredge chicken in seasoned flour, then egg wash, then panko breadcrumbs before air frying.
- Spicy Kick: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper into the seasoning blend, or toss the cooked tenders with your favorite hot sauce.
- Herb Garden: Add fresh rosemary, thyme, or finely chopped dill to the seasoning mix for a fragrant twist.
- Lemon-Herb: Incorporate fresh lemon zest and a squeeze of lemon juice with the seasonings for bright, zesty tenders.
- Parmesan Tenders: Mix grated Parmesan cheese into your seasoning blend for a savory, cheesy crust.
Nutrition Information
Enjoying these homemade air fryer chicken tenders is a smart choice for a balanced diet. They offer a great source of lean protein with minimal fat and carbohydrates.
Per serving (based on 8 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 74 kcal |
| Fat | 2 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 1 gram |
| Protein | 13 grams |
These chicken tenders are naturally low carb, keto-friendly, paleo, gluten-free, and dairy-free, making them suitable for a variety of dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to preheat my air fryer?
Yes, preheating for 3-5 minutes ensures even cooking and helps the chicken crisp up faster from the start. It’s not strictly necessary, but it definitely improves the texture of your air fryer chicken tenders.
What air fryer setting should I use?
Always use the “Air Fry” setting on your appliance. This activates the heating element and fan that circulate hot air for optimal crisping.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
You can, but increase the cooking time by about 5-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You might need to flip them more often.
How do I know when chicken tenders are done?
The most reliable way is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of a tender; it should read 165°F (74°C).
Why are my chicken tenders not crispy?
Ensure you don’t overcrowd the basket, as this limits airflow. Also, lightly spraying the tenders with oil spray before and during cooking helps achieve that golden crisp.
Can I bake these chicken tenders instead?
Absolutely! Bake them on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 18-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until they reach 165°F.
Conclusion
You now have the ultimate recipe for delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy air fryer chicken tenders. This simple method delivers crispy, juicy results every time, making it perfect for busy parents, cooking beginners, or anyone looking for a quick meal. Ditch the deep fryer and enjoy this fantastic alternative. Go ahead, give this recipe a try tonight and bring smiles to your dinner table!