Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders
Craving something crispy yet satisfying? Look no further than these Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders. This recipe offers a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken tenders, with less oil and fewer calories while still delivering that beloved crunchy exterior. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer at your next gathering.
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
The preparation time includes marinating the chicken and setting up the air fryer.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Air frying ensures quick cooking times, making this dish a breeze to prepare on busy weeknights.
Serving Size: 4 servings
Each serving is approximately 6 chicken tenders, providing a generous portion for each diner.
Description:
This recipe transforms ordinary chicken tenders into an irresistible snack or meal. The secret lies in the combination of a simple marinade and a light coating that gets beautifully crispy in the air fryer’s hot air circulation. Serve these with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
- Lemon wedges for serving (optional)
How To Cook:
- Marinate the Chicken Tenders: In a large bowl, mix together the chicken tenders with 1/2 teaspoon each of salt and pepper. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes to absorb flavors.
- Prepare the Coating Mixtures: In one shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne (if using), and a pinch of salt and black pepper. In another shallow bowl, beat the egg. Set both aside.
- Dredge Chicken Tenders: Working with one tender at a time, coat it in flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Dip into beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip back into the bowl. Finally, roll in panko breadcrumbs until well coated. Place on a plate and repeat with remaining chicken tenders.
- Air Fryer Setup: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (205°C). Lightly spray or brush the basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cooking Process: Place coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket. Cook for about 7-8 minutes, then flip and cook an additional 6-7 minutes until golden brown and crispy on the outside with no pink inside (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F).
- Serve: Serve hot with lemon wedges if desired.
Tips & Variations:
- To make this dish even healthier, use whole wheat flour and whole grain panko breadcrumbs for added fiber.
- Add a bit of nutritional yeast to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy flavor without adding cheese.
- For an extra crunchy exterior, lightly spray or brush the chicken tenders with oil after coating them in breadcrumbs before cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
About 250 calories per serving. This includes a moderate amount of protein and fat while being relatively low in carbs.
Enjoy your crispy, delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders!
