If you’re searching for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s just as perfect for an after-school snack as it is for busy weeknight dinners, then Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are your new go-to recipe. These golden, juicy strips strike that magical balance of crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—all with a fraction of the oil compared to traditional frying. Every bite bursts with flavor thanks to a buttermilk marinade and a seasoned panko crust, making it truly irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for kids, adults, or anyone in between, Air Fryer Chicken Tenders quickly become a favorite at any table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things totally fuss-free with pantry staples and just a handful of essentials, yet every ingredient plays an important role in delivering the taste and crunch you crave. The secret is all in the layers of seasoning and texture—don’t skip a step!
- Chicken tenders (1 pound): These are naturally the perfect size and shape, cooking up juicy every time.
- Buttermilk (1 cup): The key to tender, flavorful chicken; it acts as a marinade, adding a subtle tang and ensuring each piece stays moist.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Gives every bite an aromatic, savory boost without overpowering the dish.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Adds savory depth and balances out the rest of the seasonings perfectly.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings subtle warmth and a beautiful golden color to the coating.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all of the other flavors and is crucial for seasoning both the marinade and the crust.
- Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): A touch of peppery sharpness that keeps things interesting without overwhelming sensitive palates.
- All-purpose flour (1 cup): This is the essential base layer that helps the coating stick and adds to the crunch.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): Japanese-style breadcrumbs are the gold standard for an ultra-crispy, light crust.
- Large eggs (2): These bind everything together and help the breadcrumbs adhere for maximum crunch.
- Non-stick cooking spray: A quick spritz ensures even browning and that signature fried look, with hardly any oil.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by placing your chicken tenders in a bowl. Pour the buttermilk over them, and stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together so each piece is perfectly coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—this quick marinade works wonders to tenderize the chicken and infuse every bite with flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations
While the chicken marinates, set up your breading line. In three shallow bowls, arrange your all-purpose flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and panko breadcrumbs in the third. This simple setup keeps the process organized and ensures that each tender gets the crispiest, most even coating.
Step 3: Coat the Tenders
Take the chicken out of the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Working one at a time, dredge each piece thoroughly in the flour, dip into the egg, and then press into the panko so every side is covered. This triple-dip technique locks in moisture and delivers a beautiful, craggy crust on your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F—hot enough to get the coating golden and crisp. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray, then arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer. A little space between each one helps them crisp up nicely.
Step 5: Air Fry to Perfection
Give the tops of your tenders a quick mist with cooking spray to help with browning. Cook them for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are ready when they turn gorgeously golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Serve immediately while they’re piping hot and crisp.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
Dress up your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or even a little flaky sea salt for added texture and color. These easy touches make your plate pop and elevate the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
Pair your tenders with classic sides like crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad. For something lighter, try roasted veggies or sliced cucumber with ranch dip. If you’re feeding a crowd, whip up some mac and cheese or buttery corn on the cob to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders into sliders or wraps? Slice them up over a salad, stuff them into pita bread with crunchy slaw, or serve them as bite-sized appetizers on a skewer with your favorite dipping sauces lined up for dunking. The possibilities are endless and fun!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with a few extra Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (lucky you!), let them cool completely and transfer them to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, ready for a quick lunch or snack straight from the fridge or rewarmed.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange your cooled tenders on a baking sheet and let them freeze solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag or container. This keeps them from sticking together. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months—just don’t forget to label and date the bag!
Reheating
For best results, reheat your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders in the air fryer itself at 350°F until warmed through and crispy again (about 3-4 minutes). In a pinch, you can also reheat in the oven or toaster oven; avoid the microwave if possible, as it can make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just slice chicken breasts into strips about the size of traditional tenders and follow the same steps. They’ll turn out perfectly juicy and flavorful.
How do I make these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders gluten-free?
Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free blend, and use gluten-free breadcrumbs in place of panko. The tenders will be just as crunchy and delicious.
Is it okay to marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes! Marinating overnight gives your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders even more flavor and tenderness. Just be sure they’re well covered in the fridge, and you’re good to go.
Which dips go best with these tenders?
You can’t go wrong with classics like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or ketchup. For a fun twist, try buffalo sauce or a creamy sriracha mayo for a little kick.
Can I cook a double batch at once?
For the crispiest results, cook your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders in a single layer without crowding the basket. If you need more, simply work in batches—good things are worth the wait!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders—they’re a total gamechanger for busy nights, picky eaters, and anyone who loves a satisfying, crunchy bite. Grab your ingredients, fire up that air fryer, and get ready to win dinnertime with confidence!
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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These crispy and flavorful air fryer chicken tenders are the perfect quick and easy dinner option for the whole family. Tender chicken strips are marinated in buttermilk and spices, coated in a crunchy panko breadcrumb mixture, and air fried to golden perfection. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious meal that’s sure to be a hit.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenders
Marinade:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Breading:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 large eggs
Other:
- Non-stick cooking spray
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken tenders in a bowl, pour buttermilk and spices over them, mix well, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three bowls with flour, beaten eggs, and panko breadcrumbs.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each tender in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Air Fry: Preheat air fryer, spray basket with cooking spray, arrange tenders in a single layer, spray tops with cooking spray, and cook until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Serve: Enjoy hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.
- You can substitute panko with crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
- Prep Time: 40 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 tenders
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
