Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders the Easiest Healthiest Way

Recipe Introduction

Quick Hook

Fancy some proper finger food? My air fryer chicken tenders recipe nails that crispy, juicy thing. Honestly, who doesn't love crispy air fryer chicken ? It's proper naughty but nice.

Brief Overview

Chicken tenders are a classic American comfort food. But let's be real, it's global now! This is an easy chicken recipe air fryer , taking only about 45 minutes total.

This recipe makes 4 servings, enough for a family or a few mates.

Main Benefits

These healthy air fryer chicken tenders are a lighter way to enjoy a classic. It's proper great for the kids and adults, it makes these perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

What makes these special? A super crunchy coating with way less oil and a delightful taste of the best dipping sauce for chicken tenders

How To Air Fry Chicken Tenders Properly

Okay, so let's get down to business. The goal is chicken tenders in airfryer that are actually crispy. No soggy nonsense here! The secret is chilling them after breading.

Trust me, this step is a game changer, stopping the breading from falling off.

The Magic of Air Fryer Tenders Recipes

I've made air fryer tenders recipes a gazillion times. I started out wanting something quick, but I still wanted something good.

The air fryer is just the best way to get that golden brown finish. And using air fryer chicken tenderloins ? Oh my gosh, so tender!

Let's Talk Ingredients: What You Need

Here's what you'll need to whip up these bad boys:

• For the Chicken:

  • 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch thick strips
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) paprika (smoked preferred)

• For the Breading:

  • 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) paprika (smoked preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup (85g) panko breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) olive oil spray

Don't fret if you're missing something. Remember that air fryer chicken tenders no breading are also a great option to explore for a super healthy choice, while still retaining tenderness.

I've swapped out panko for regular breadcrumbs before and it was still decent.

Alright, mate! Let's chat about what you'll need to make these crispy air fryer chicken tenders . Honestly, it's dead simple.

Even if you're not a whiz in the kitchen, you'll nail this. I promise! It's the easiest chicken recipe air fryer can make.

Ingredients & Equipment

This air fryer chicken tenders recipe is foolproof once you get the hang of it. I remember the first time I tried chicken tenders in airfryer .

I slightly burnt them, but now I know the trick!

Main Ingredients

Okay, here's the lowdown on what you'll need. Remember, measurements are important !

• Chicken: 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1 inch thick strips. Go for chicken that looks pink and firm, not grey or slimy. Fresh is always best.
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5ml) kosher salt.
• Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
• Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) smoked paprika, if you're feeling fancy.

For the breading, we have:

• Flour: 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour.
• Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
• Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) , smoked again is great.
• Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) kosher salt.
• Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper.
• Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten.
• Panko: 1 cup (85g) panko breadcrumbs. These make them super crispy air fryer chicken .
• Olive Oil Spray: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .

Seasoning Notes

Now, here's where you can get creative! The garlic powder and paprika are key here. They give a lovely savory warmth.

Oregano adds a bit of herby goodness. If you want a kick, chuck in a pinch of cayenne pepper. Seriously, these healthy air fryer chicken tenders can be whatever you want them to be! Let's consider them air fryer chicken kids can enjoy!

Equipment Needed

You don't need a ton of gear for this, thank goodness.

• Air Fryer. Obviously!
• Three shallow bowls or plates. For your breading station.
• Meat mallet (optional). Only if you want to bash your chicken a bit thinner.

And that's it! No fancy gadgets needed for this air fryer chicken tenderloins recipe. This how to air fry chicken tenders method is super easy, right?

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders : The Easiest, Healthiest Way!

Fancy some crispy air fryer chicken tenders? Me too! I'm sharing my go-to air fryer chicken tenders recipe . You get that classic chicken tender crunch, but without the guilt! Honestly, this easy chicken recipe air fryer version will become a family fave.

We’re talking perfectly crispy air fryer chicken , juicy goodness in minutes. It's a modern take on those golden, fried delights we all remember.

The secret is a simple, flavorful breading and the air fryer magic. Ready? Let's dive in.

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Magic

First, the mise en place is essential. Cut 1 pound (450g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1 inch thick strips.

Now, season those bad boys! Mix together 1 teaspoon (5ml) kosher salt, ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) black pepper, 1 teaspoon (5ml) garlic powder, and ½ teaspoon (2.

5ml) smoked paprika. Give the chicken a good rub down!

Time saving tip? Prepare your breading stations ahead of time. Trust me, it makes life so much easier. And always, always wash your hands after handling raw chicken, yeah?

step-by-step: Tenders to Table

Here’s how to air fry chicken tenders that’ll make you the star chef. Follow these steps!

1. Set up three bowls. One with 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon (5ml) garlic powder, ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon (5ml) dried oregano, ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) kosher salt, and ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) black pepper.
2. Second bowl, beat 2 large eggs.
3. Third bowl, pour 1 cup (85g) panko breadcrumbs.
4. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, then dip in the egg, then coat in panko. Make sure they're fully covered!
5. Chill the breaded tenders for at least 15 minutes . This is key for the breading to stick.
6. Preheat your air fryer to 400° F ( 200° C) for 3 minutes .
7. Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the tenders in a single layer, don’t overcrowd! Spray the tops with more oil.
8. Air fry chicken tenderloins for 6- 8 minutes , flip, spray with oil, and cook another 6- 8 minutes . Chicken's done when it's golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) .

Pro Tips: The Secret Sauce

Want healthy air fryer chicken tenders ? Don’t overcrowd the air fryer! Cook in batches. This ensures maximum crispiness.

Chill time is crucial . It makes the breading stay put.

Use a meat thermometer! Safety first!

Best dipping sauce for chicken tenders ? Honestly, I'm torn between classic ketchup and honey mustard. What's your pick?

So there you have it, chicken tenders in airfryer that are a total win! Now go forth and conquer that craving!

Recipe Notes for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

So, you are about to make air fryer chicken tenders ? Ace! Let's chat about some extra bits and bobs to make this easy chicken recipe air fryer even better! Honestly, this air fryer chicken tenders recipe is already a winner, but a few tweaks can make it chef's kiss .

It's all about making it your own, yeah? And finding the best dipping sauce for chicken tenders !.

Serving Suggestions: Level Up Your Air Fryer Tenders

Thinking about plating up? Get a bit fancy! Serve these crispy air fryer chicken beauties on a bed of vibrant coleslaw.

A dollop of homemade garlic mayo? Bangin'. Or think about these with some chunky chips and maybe some fresh peas.

Pair them with a crisp salad. For drinks, I love a cold beer or even a homemade lemonade. Presentation is key!.

Storage Tips: Keeping the Good Times Rolling

Got leftovers? No worries. These chicken tenders in airfryer can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Make sure they're in an airtight container. Reheat them in the air fryer for about 3- 4 minutes. The healthy air fryer chicken tenders will crisp up again nicely.

Freezing works too. Place cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze. Then transfer to a freezer bag.

Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165° F ( 74° C) .

Variations: Get Creative!

Want to shake things up? Try a gluten-free version using almond flour and gluten-free panko. Boom! For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix.

I love experimenting with different herbs and spices too. A little smoked paprika? Yes, please! You can even try making air fryer chicken tenders no breading for a super healthy option.

Simply marinate the chicken and cook as is. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes for extra flavour.

Nutrition Basics: Guilt Free Goodness

These air fryer chicken tenderloins are already way healthier than the deep fried version. Each serving clocks in around 350 calories.

You also get a whopping 35g of protein. Not bad eh? Remember, these are just estimates. The exact numbers depend on the specific ingredients you use.

These air fryer chicken kids will love are also a good source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle building and overall health.

So there you have it! Some extra tips and tricks to make your how to air fry chicken tenders experience even better.

Don't be afraid to experiment and have some fun. Now go on, get in that kitchen and cook up a storm!