Making chicken tenders in an air fryer is so quick and simple! Air fryer chicken tenders are not only incredibly easy to make, but they also turn out crispy without the need for all that oil typically used in frying. This makes them a much healthier option while still providing that satisfying crunch everyone loves. I made these tasty chicken tenders the other night for dinner, and my family absolutely loved them. They’re the perfect quick dinner solution, especially when you’re short on time but still want a meal that’s both flavourful and satisfying. These tenders are crispy on the outside, yet remain juicy and tender on the inside, which makes every bite irresistible.
So what I love most about air fryer chicken tenders is their versatility. You can serve them as a delicious main dish for dinner, or even as a tasty starter or snack. Pair them with your favourite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing meal. Whether it’s for a family dinner, a party appetizer, or just a quick snack, they’ll never disappoint.
Making crispy and juicy chicken tenders from scratch in your air fryer is easier than you might think. The ingredients you’ll need are simple – chicken, flour, egg, breadcrumbs, and a few seasonings like salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Once you’ve coated the chicken tenders with the seasoned flour and breadcrumbs, simply pop them into the air fryer. The air fryer does all the hard work, cooking them evenly and giving them that perfect crispiness without the extra fat from deep frying. Follow this easy recipe, and you’ll get perfect, golden chicken tenders every time!
PREP 5 minutes
COOK 8 to 10 minutes
SERVES 2 people
KIT you will need an air fryer and three mixing bowls.
Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
2 skinless chicken breasts, sliced
200g of plain flour
1 large egg, beaten
250g of panko breadcrumbs
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
A teaspoon of smoked paprika (optional)
Salt and pepper
Olive oil spray
Method
Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin, even strips – aim for consistency so they cook evenly and crisp up nicely in the air-fryer. Set the chicken aside while you prepare your breading station.
In a mixing bowl, add plain flour along with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will be your first coating layer. In a second bowl, crack an egg and whisk it well to create a smooth egg wash. In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, a little smoked paprika (if you like a subtle smoky flavour), and an extra pinch of salt and pepper for seasoning.
Take each chicken strip and first coat it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, allowing any extra egg to drip off. Finally, roll the chicken in the seasoned breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to make sure the coating sticks well and covers all sides.
Lightly spray the breaded chicken tenders with olive oil to help them crisp up in the air fryer. Place them in a single layer in your air fryer basket, leaving the crisper plates in to help circulate the air. Avoid overcrowding the basket – you may need to cook in batches depending on how many tenders you’re making.
Set your air fryer to 200°C and cook the tenders for 8 to 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure an even, golden crisp on both sides. Keep an eye on them as cooking times can vary slightly depending on the size of your strips and your air fryer model.
Once cooked, let the chicken rest briefly before serving. Enjoy with fries or wedges, or serve as a starter with spicy mayo, garlic ali-oli, sweet chilli, or honey mustard!
Tips for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
1. Use even-sized tenders
Whether you’re using pre-cut chicken tenders or cutting boneless chicken breasts into strips, aim for uniform thickness and size. This ensures they all cook evenly and finish at the same time.
2. Dry before breading
Use kitchen paper to pat the chicken dry before seasoning or breading. Removing excess moisture helps the coating stick better and results in a crispier texture once cooked.
3. Double-dip for crunch
For ultra-crispy chicken, use the classic breading method: dip in seasoned flour, then beaten egg, followed by panko breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb step once more for a double coating.
4. Season every layer
Add salt, pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, or herbs to your flour and breadcrumb mix for flavour-packed results.
5. Preheat your air fryer
Set your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for a few minutes before cooking to get that golden, crispy finish.
6. Don’t overcrowd the basket
Give each tender space. If they are too close, they’ll steam instead of crisp. Work in batches if needed.
7. Spray or brush with oil
A light coating of oil on the tenders helps mimic that deep-fried crunch without the extra fat.
8. Flip halfway
Turn the chicken halfway through cooking to ensure both sides are evenly browned and crisp.
9. Check doneness
Chicken tenders should reach an internal temp of 75°C (165°F). If in doubt, slice one open to check.
10. Serve right away
They’re best hot and crispy! Serve with your favourite dipping sauces like garlic mayo, ketchup, or spicy sriracha.
Similar recipes
If you loved these crispy and juicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, then you will definitely want to try these other easy, flavour-packed air fryer recipes or mine. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals, each one offers quick prep and fantastic results that the whole family will enjoy.
Air Fryer Chicken Drumsticks
Succulent chicken drumsticks with a perfectly crispy skin and tender meat inside. Marinated with simple spices, they are a no-fuss crowd-pleaser that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Air Fryer Roast Potatoes
Golden and crunchy on the outside, fluffy and soft on the inside. These air fried roast potatoes are a perfect side dish to pair with your chicken tenders or any roast dinner.
Air Fryer Halloumi Fries
Crispy, salty, and irresistibly squeaky halloumi fries that work brilliantly as a snack, appetizer, or side. They cook quickly and offer a delightful texture contrast.
Air Fryer Sausage Rolls
Flaky golden pastry encasing juicy, seasoned sausage meat. These sausage rolls are perfect for parties, lunches, or anytime you want a comforting finger food.
Air Fryer Corn on the Cob
Sweet, buttery corn with just a hint of char, this quick and easy corn on the cob recipe makes a great side dish or snack that is packed with summer vibes.
Try mixing and matching these recipes to create delicious, hassle-free meals that everyone in your family will love!
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