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air fryer chicken tenders Recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these air fryer chicken tenders deliver flavor without the hassle of deep frying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a kid-friendly meal, this recipe brings healthier homemade chicken tenders to your table in just a few simple steps.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 500 grams chicken tenders About 12–16 pieces.
  • 100 grams breadcrumbs Preferably panko.
  • 30 grams all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 grams salt
  • 2 grams black pepper
  • 1 gram paprika
  • 1 gram garlic powder
  • 1 spray cooking spray Or oil spray.

Equipment

  • 1 Air fryer
  • 3 shallow bowls
  • 1 tongs
  • 1 plate or tray
  • 1 cooking spray

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.
  2. Set up breading station: Place flour in the first bowl. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
  4. Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
  5. Place the coated chicken tenders on a plate or tray.
  6. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer, leaving space between each piece (cook in batches if necessary).
  7. Spray the tops of the chicken tenders lightly with oil spray.
  8. Air fry for 6 minutes. Flip tenders over, spray again lightly, and continue cooking for 6 more minutes, or until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F).
  9. Remove from air fryer and serve immediately.

Notes

For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
You can add dried herbs like parsley or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture for variation.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch.
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated in the air fryer to regain crispiness.