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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

These crispy air fryer chicken tenders are quick, family-friendly, and healthier than traditional frying, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders
  • 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins Pick fresh, pale pink pieces.
  • 1 cup buttermilk Soak chicken for tenderness.
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs For a crispy coating.
  • 0.5 cup all-purpose flour Used for coating.
  • 2 large eggs, beaten To help the coating stick.
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika For added flavor.
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
  • 0.5 tsp fine sea salt Plus more to taste.
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper Freshly ground.
  • Nonstick cooking spray or olive oil spray For air frying.
For Serving
  • Honey mustard or ranch dressing For dipping.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Place the chicken tenderloins in a shallow dish and pour the buttermilk over them, making sure every piece is submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
  2. Prepare three shallow dishes: mix flour with half the garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper in one; beat the eggs in the second; in the third, combine panko breadcrumbs with the remaining spices.
Coating
  1. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour, dip in beaten eggs, and finally coat with seasoned panko, pressing gently.
Cooking
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 to 5 minutes.
  2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the tenders in a single layer, leaving space between them. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders.
  3. Air fry the chicken for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the thickest piece reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serving
  1. Let the tenders rest for 2 to 3 minutes before serving with your choice of dipping sauce.

Notes

These tenders reheat well in the air fryer. Serve with simple, cozy sides like mashed potatoes or coleslaw for a balanced meal. Avoid crowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking.