Description
Crispy, flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Tenders coated in a seasoned flour and breadcrumb mixture. These tenders are perfectly cooked in the air fryer, offering a healthier and quick alternative to traditional fried chicken with a crunchy outside and juicy inside.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- ½ cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 ½ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups Panko bread crumbs
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- ¼ cup buttermilk
Main Ingredient
- 2 pounds chicken tenders
Instructions
- Prepare Breading Mixtures: Set up three wide, shallow dishes. Put the flour in the first dish. In the second, whisk together the eggs, buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is smooth and evenly blended. Place the Panko bread crumbs in the third dish.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) for 5 minutes to ensure it reaches the ideal temperature for crisp cooking.
- Bread the Chicken Tenders: One by one, coat each chicken tender first in the flour, shaking off the excess, then dip into the egg and buttermilk mixture, and finally press into the Panko bread crumbs until fully coated on all sides.
- Air Fry the Tenders: Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer inside the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook them at 400°F for 6 minutes on one side.
- Flip and Continue Cooking: Carefully turn each tender over and air fry for an additional 5 to 7 minutes, or until the tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked safely to 165°F internal temperature.
- Substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option without compromising texture.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to keep it juicy.
- Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
