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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are tender chicken strips coated in a golden, crunchy panko breadcrumb crust, perfectly cooked in minutes using an air fryer. This healthier and quick recipe offers a satisfying crunch without the excess oil of traditional frying, making it ideal for busy weeknights and gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb chicken tenders

Coating

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free panko for GF option)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Other

  • Olive oil spray

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Coating Stations: Set up three shallow dishes — one with flour seasoned with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder; one with beaten eggs; and one with the panko breadcrumbs.
  2. Coat the Chicken Tenders: Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
  3. Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and aid browning.
  4. Air Fry the Chicken Tenders: Arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in the basket without overlapping. Spray olive oil on top of the tenders. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Let the tenders rest for 1-2 minutes to lock in juices. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.

Notes

  • Use chicken tenders of similar thickness for even cooking.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to achieve maximum crispiness.
  • A light mist of olive oil spray is essential for golden, crunchy coating.
  • Allow cooked tenders to rest before serving to retain juiciness.
  • Use panko breadcrumbs for the best crispy texture.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy chicken tenders, air fryer chicken, healthy chicken tenders, quick chicken snack, gluten free chicken tenders

Find it online: https://marycorner.com/crispy-air-fryer-chicken-tenders/