Chicken tenders are a favorite for many because they’re juicy, tender, and perfect for dipping. Cooking them in an air fryer is a game-changer – you get that crispy, golden exterior without the mess and extra oil of deep frying. If you’ve been wondering how do I cook chicken tenders in the air fryer? – this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make perfect chicken tenders every time.
Why Cook Chicken Tenders in an Air Fryer?
– Healthier option: Uses little to no oil, cutting down on fat and calories.
– Quick and easy: Ready in about 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
– Crispy texture: Achieves that satisfying crunch without deep frying.
– Less mess: No oil splatters or heavy cleanup.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients
– Chicken tenders (about 1 pound)
– Olive oil or cooking spray
– Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, or your favorite spice blend
– Optional breading: flour, eggs, and panko or regular breadcrumbs for extra crunch
Equipment
– Air fryer
– Bowls for breading (if using)
– Tongs for flipping
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer
1. Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 390°F–400°F (200°C–205°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. Preheating helps the chicken tenders cook evenly and get crispy on the outside.
2. Prepare the Chicken Tenders
– For breaded tenders:
– Pat the chicken dry.
– Set up a breading station: one bowl with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs (mix in garlic powder, paprika, and other spices).
– Coat each tender in flour, dip in egg, then press into breadcrumbs.
– Lightly spray or brush with oil to help crisp the coating.
– For unbreaded tenders:
– Toss chicken tenders with olive oil and your favorite seasonings for a flavorful, no-breading option.
3. Arrange in the Air Fryer Basket
Place the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure hot air circulates and crisps the chicken evenly. Cook in batches if needed.
4. Cook and Flip
– Air fry for about 9-12 minutes total.
– Flip the tenders halfway through cooking to brown both sides evenly.
– Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy
Serve your crispy chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
– Don’t skip preheating: It makes a big difference in crispiness.
– Pat chicken dry: This helps the breading stick and prevents sogginess.
– Use panko breadcrumbs: They crisp up better than regular breadcrumbs.
– Flip halfway: Air fryers can cook unevenly, so turning the tenders ensures even browning.
– Work in batches: Crowding the basket can cause steaming instead of crisping.
– Marinate for juiciness: Soaking tenders in buttermilk before breading keeps them moist and tender.
Variations and Flavor Ideas
– Spicy tenders: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to your seasoning mix.
– Parmesan crust: Mix grated Parmesan cheese with your breadcrumbs for a cheesy crust.
– Herb-infused: Add dried oregano, thyme, or basil to the breading for extra flavor.
– Keto-friendly: Skip the breading and season tenders with spices and oil only.
Chicken tenders cooked in the air fryer are crispy, juicy, and ready in no time. Whether you prefer them breaded or seasoned simply, the air fryer makes it easy to enjoy this classic comfort food with less oil and less fuss. Perfect for a quick dinner or a snack that everyone loves!