Craving a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders? Look no further! These air fryer chicken tenders are perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a fun snack. With minimal oil and simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time, satisfying your cravings without the guilt. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko recommended)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 12-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (approx. 3-4 tenders) contains about 320 calories, 15g fat, 30g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional breakdown is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station: one bowl for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
- Season the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured tender into the beaten eggs, coating well.
- Press the tender into the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Place the breaded tenders on a plate.
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray.
- Arrange tenders in a single layer in the air fryer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken tenders with chicken breasts cut into strips or use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option. Additionally, different spices can be used to customize the flavor to your liking.
Serving and Pairings
These air fryer chicken tenders pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce. Serve them with a side of fresh vegetables, coleslaw, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they are properly sealed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overcrowding the basket will prevent the tenders from getting crispy.
- Skipping the egg wash can result in breadcrumbs falling off.
- Not seasoning the flour mixture will lead to bland tenders.
- Using too much oil can make them greasy instead of crispy.
Helpful Tips
- For extra crunch, double-dip the tenders in flour and breadcrumbs.
- Let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance flavor.
- Experiment with different spices and breadcrumbs for unique flavors.
- Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C).
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but adjust the cooking time to ensure they are fully cooked and crispy.
How do I make them spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the flour mixture for a spicy kick, adjusting amounts to taste.
Can I make these tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives like almond flour for a gluten-free version.
How do I know when the chicken is cooked?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
What’s the best way to serve air fryer chicken tenders?
These tenders are best served hot with your favorite dipping sauces and sides like fries or a salad.
Conclusion
Air fryer chicken tenders are an easy and delicious option for any meal. They offer the perfect combination of crispy texture and juicy flavor without the guilt of deep frying. Try this recipe today for a healthy and satisfying dish that the whole family will love!
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs panko recommended
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station: one bowl for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs.
- Season the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured tender into the beaten eggs, coating well.
- Press the tender into the breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Place the breaded tenders on a plate.
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray.
- Arrange tenders in a single layer in the air fryer.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Nutrition
