:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/air_fryer_chicken_tenders_014-s-2000-e29c92149e44404a943e1b8fcf77a914.jpg)
Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- ¾ cwhole buttermilk
- 2 tspgrated garlic
about 3 medium garlic cloves
- 1 ½ tspkosher salt
divided
- 1 lbchicken breast tenders
about 8 tenders
- 1 ¼ cpanko
japanese-style breadcrumbs
- 2 ozparmesan cheese
grated, about 1/2 cup
- 1 tbspolive oil
- ¼ cmayonnaise
- ¼ cwhole buttermilk
- 1 tbspapple cider vinegar
- 1 ½ tspgranulated sugar
- ¾ tspspicy brown mustard
- ½ tspfresh lemon juice
from 1 small lemon
- ½ tspblack pepper
- ¼ tspkosher salt
Directions
- 1
Prepare the Chicken Tenders: Place buttermilk, garlic, and 1 teaspoon of the salt in a ziplock plastic bag. Add chicken; seal bag, and gently toss to completely coat chicken. Let marinate at room temperature, tossing occasionally, 30 minutes.
- 2
Meanwhile, stir together panko, Parmesan, oil, and remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt in a shallow dish, stirring to evenly combine. Set aside.
- 3
Prepare the Sauce: Stir together mayonnaise, buttermilk, vinegar, sugar, mustard, lemon juice, pepper, and salt in a bowl. Set aside.
- 4
Preheat a 5.3-quart air fryer to 400°F for 2 to 3 minutes. Working with 1 tender at a time, remove chicken from marinade, and place in panko mixture, gently pressing to fully coat on both sides. Gently shake chicken to remove excess, and place in air fryer basket. Repeat process with remaining tenders. Cook until chicken is golden brown and a thermometer inserted into thickest portion of meat registers 165°F, about 6 minutes per side. Serve Chicken Tenders hot alongside Sauce.
Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
Similar Recipes
Ratings & Reviews
Be the First to Rate
Your rating helps others discover amazing recipes. Share your experience and let others know what you think!
About this Recipe
Craving perfectly crispy, juicy chicken tenders without the deep-fry mess? These Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken Tenders are your new go-to for a family-favorite supper, ready in about an hour. Forget soggy takeout; this recipe delivers authentic crunch and flavor right in your own kitchen.
The magic starts with a buttermilk marinade, ensuring tender, flavorful chicken that stays incredibly moist. The coating, a savvy blend of Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, achieves an unbelievably golden, crunchy crust when air fried. This technique bypasses excess oil, offering a lighter yet equally satisfying experience compared to traditional frying.
Prepare for chicken tenders that are wonderfully juicy on the inside, encased in a satisfyingly golden, crunchy exterior. The grated garlic and Parmesan add delightful layers of savory depth to the coating, while the buttermilk works its magic for exceptional tenderness. You'll also whip up a vibrant dipping sauce, blending buttermilk, apple cider vinegar, and spicy brown mustard for a tangy, slightly sweet, and zesty profile that perfectly complements the rich chicken. This entire meal, from start to finish, clocks in at about an hour.
Looking to customize? While chicken breast tenders are classic, you could experiment with boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a different texture. For a vegetarian option, consider coating thick slices of firm tofu or halloumi cheese. If spicy brown mustard isn't on hand for the sauce, a good quality Dijon mustard makes a suitable substitute, offering a similar tang.
These versatile tenders are ideal for a casual weeknight dinner or a fun gathering. Serve them alongside a fresh green salad or some roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.