Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken strips. With a crispy coating and juicy inside, these tenders are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend snack. Using an air fryer allows you to enjoy the crunchiness of fried food without all the extra oil, making it a guilt-free option you’ll love.
Why We Love This Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe
This recipe for Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders not only gives you an easy way to prepare a family favorite, but it also ensures that you can enjoy a tasty meal without the mess of deep frying. The air fryer circulates hot air around the chicken, creating that coveted crunch while keeping the inside moist and flavorful. Additionally, it’s customizable with a variety of spices, allowing you to tailor the flavor profile to your liking. From kids to adults, everyone will enjoy these chicken tenders that are quick to make and even quicker to eat.
Ingredients about Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray
These ingredients come together to create a tasty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of flour, spices, and breadcrumbs ensures that each bite is flavorful and satisfying, while the chicken tenders provide protein for a well-rounded meal.
How to Make Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Directions
- Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial to ensure that the tenders cook evenly and achieve that golden-brown color.
- Take a bowl and add the flour along with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix these dry ingredients together thoroughly. Each of these spices infuses flavor into the chicken, giving it a delightful taste that’s hard to resist.
- In a separate bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until they are well mixed. The eggs will act as a binding agent, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
- In another bowl, prepare the breadcrumbs. You can use store-bought breadcrumbs or make your own by crushing stale bread.
- Now it’s time to coat the chicken. Take one chicken tender and dip it into the flour mixture first, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Next, dip the floured chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip back into the bowl.
- Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumbs. Press down gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.
- Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded; give them some space to cook evenly. Spray the tenders lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up during cooking.
- Cook the tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You will know they are done when they turn golden brown and are cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once finished, remove them from the air fryer and prepare to serve hot!
How to Serve Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Serving your Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is where you can get creative! You might serve them alongside a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for those who like extra heat. Consider pairing the tenders with a fresh side salad or crispy sweet potato fries for a complete meal. Not only do they make a fantastic dinner option, but they also make for an excellent appetizer at parties or gatherings. The great thing about these tenders is their versatility and the way they can fit into any meal plan.
Expert Tips: Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Preheat for Best Results: Always preheat your air fryer. This ensures that the chicken tends to cook evenly and develops that perfect golden color.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Make sure to place the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.
- Adjust Cook Time: Keep in mind that different air fryer models may cook at different speeds. Keep an eye on the tenders towards the end of the cooking time, and check for doneness.
- Use Panko for Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy exterior, consider using panko breadcrumbs rather than standard breadcrumbs. They create a delightful crunch that your family will love.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to experiment with additional spices in the flour or breadcrumb mixture. Adding a pinch of paprika or cumin can elevate the flavor profile of your chicken tenders.
How to Store Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers (which might be unlikely because they are so good!), let the chicken tenders cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they are heated through and crispy once more. Alternatively, you can also freeze the uncooked breaded tenders. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to three months. No need to thaw before cooking; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
Variation of Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
You can put a personal twist on your Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with these variations:
- Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes to the flour mixture for a kick of heat.
- Herb-Infused Crust: Mix dried herbs like Italian seasoning or fresh chopped parsley into the breadcrumbs to give them a unique flavor.
- Cheesy Tenders: Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mix for a cheesy delight.
- Asian-Inspired Tenders: Use panko and season it with sesame seeds and a dash of soy sauce in your marinade for a tasty Asian twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to accommodate special dietary needs.
FAQ
What can I serve with Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?
You can serve these tenders with a variety of sides including salads, vegetables, and popular dips like BBQ sauce or ranch dressing.
How long do I need to cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer?
Typically, the chicken tenders will cook for about 10-12 minutes at 400°F. Make sure to flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders in this recipe?
Yes, but if using frozen tenders, increase the cooking time slightly, and ensure they reach the proper internal temperature of 165°F.
How do I make my chicken tenders extra crispy?
Using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs can significantly enhance crunchiness and texture.
Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook.
Enjoy your cooking journey with these incredible Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders that will bring joy to your meal times!
Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
For the chicken tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs Use panko for extra crunch.
- 1/2 cup flour Can use gluten-free if needed.
- 2 large eggs Beaten for coating.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper To taste.
- Olive oil spray For coating the tenders.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, beat the eggs.
- Prepare the breadcrumbs in a separate bowl.
- Coat each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumbs.
Cooking
- Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded and lightly spray them with olive oil.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serving
- Serve hot with various dipping sauces and sides like salads or sweet potato fries.
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