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Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders

Boneless chicken tenders are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and cooked in the air fryer until golden brown. The result is a crispy, juicy exterior with tender meat inside, achieved through a baking and air frying process that mimics deep frying texture without the excess oil.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless chicken tenders cut into strips if large
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1.5 cups breadcrumbs panko preferred for crunch
  • 1 teaspoon paprika for flavor and color
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • cooking spray olive oil or cooking spray for greasing the basket if needed

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Baking sheet or plate
  • Tongs
  • Cooking brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Prepare three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Dredge each chicken tender first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into egg wash, ensuring an even coat, and finally press into seasoned breadcrumbs, coating thoroughly. Place the coated tenders on a plate.
  3. Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray or brush with oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, leaving space between each piece.
  4. Cook the tenders in the preheated air fryer for 12-15 minutes, flipping or turning them halfway through, until the exterior is golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Listen for a crispy crackle and smell for a toasted aroma.
  5. Remove tenders carefully from the air fryer using tongs, serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, and observe the crunchy texture and appealing appearance.

Notes

For extra crunch, spray the coated tenders lightly with cooking spray before air frying. Adjust cooking time based on tender size and desired crispiness.