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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a quick and healthy way to enjoy the classic taste of breaded chicken tenders with a crispy exterior and juicy interior. This method ensures a delicious meal without the excess oil and calories of traditional frying.
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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a quick and healthy way to enjoy the classic taste of breaded chicken tenders with a crispy exterior and juicy interior.
Course Dinner
Cuisine American
Keyword Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, Chicken Tenders
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 14 Tenders

Ingredients

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders:

  • 2 pounds chicken tenders about 14
  • 2 large eggs
  • cup panko breadcrumbs
  • cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 2 tsp kosher salt divided
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp ground black pepper
  • Olive oil spray

FOR DIPPING (optional):

  • Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip
  • Honey Mustard Sauce
  • Barbecue Sauce

Instructions

  • Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels, then sprinkle them evenly with 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt to enhance their flavor.
  • In a shallow bowl or pie dish, whisk the eggs until well beaten.
  • In a separate shallow bowl, combine the panko, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of salt, mixing evenly.
  • Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set it nearby for easy access during breading.

Coat the chicken tenders:

  • Working in small batches, dip each chicken tender into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated.
  • Next, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, gently patting to help the coating adhere. Shake off any excess breadcrumbs before placing the chicken.
  • Place each coated chicken tender onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat the process with the remaining pieces, arranging them in a single layer.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. To keep cooked chicken warm between batches, preheat a regular oven to 250°F.
  • Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil cooking spray and arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch (about four tenders per batch).
  • Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with oil spray before cooking.
  • Cook the chicken tenders for 8 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even crispiness.
  • The chicken should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F on an instant-read thermometer, with the exterior golden brown and crispy.
  • Repeat with the remaining chicken tenders, keeping them warm in the oven if needed.
  • Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

To Store: Refrigerate the chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat: Rewarm the leftovers in the oven at 350°F, in the air fryer, or in the microwave until heated through.
To Freeze: Lay the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen tenders to an airtight, freezer-safe container and store for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.