Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

These crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are golden and juicy, so easy to make and perfect for weeknight cooking!

Ingredients

  • 12 chicken tenders)

    (1 1/4 lbs

  • 2 large eggs

    beaten

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • black pepper
    to taste
  • 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs*
  • 1/2 cup seasoned panko*
  • olive oil spray
  • lemon wedges

    for serving

Directions

  1. 1

    Season chicken with salt and pepper.

  2. 2

    Place egg in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, combine the bread crumbs and panko.

  3. 3

    Dip chicken in the egg, then into the breadcrumb mixture and shake off excess and place on a large dish or cutting board. Spray both sides of the chicken generously with oil.

  4. 4

    Preheat air fryer to 400F.

  5. 5

    In batches, cook the chicken 5 to 6 minutes on each side, until the chicken is cooked through and crispy and golden on the outside. Serve with lemon wedges.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

4.9(203)

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About this Recipe

Tired of soggy, greasy fried chicken tenders? This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe delivers perfectly golden and juicy results every time, making weeknight meals a breeze. Say goodbye to takeout and hello to a homemade favorite that's simple, satisfying, and tastes incredible.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of the air fryer means you achieve that irresistible crispy exterior without excessive oil, while keeping the chicken incredibly moist inside. The combination of seasoned breadcrumbs and panko creates a superior coating that's both flavorful and extra crunchy. It's an easy way to enjoy a favorite comfort food with less fuss and fantastic texture.

What to Expect

Prepare for chicken tenders that boast an impressive crunch with every bite, giving way to tender, flavorful meat. They emerge beautifully golden from the air fryer, perfectly seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper, and incredibly satisfying. The process is straightforward, requiring just 5 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of cooking time, so you can have a delicious meal on the table efficiently.

Customization & Variations

You have control over the flavor profile here. While seasoned breadcrumbs and panko provide a classic base, feel free to experiment. You could enhance the seasoning by mixing a pinch of garlic powder, onion powder, or a dash of smoked paprika into your breading mixture. If you only have one type of breading, using 1 cup of either seasoned breadcrumbs or seasoned panko will still yield delicious results, though the texture might vary slightly.

Serving & Context

These crispy tenders are a fantastic, family-friendly option for any weeknight dinner, or a perfect appetizer for a casual gathering. Serve them hot with fresh lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish that complements the rich chicken beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions