Looking for a crispy, golden-brown chicken tender recipe without all the extra oil? These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are the perfect healthier alternative to traditional deep-fried tenders. Coated in a perfectly seasoned, crunchy breading, these tenders are juicy on the inside and irresistibly crispy on the outside. Ideal for a quick dinner, snack, or even meal prep, they pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauces!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy & Golden: Perfect crunch without deep frying.
- Healthier Alternative: Uses less oil but still full of flavor.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes.
- Kid-Friendly: A family favorite that everyone will love.
Ingredients Breakdown
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Olive oil spray
Substitutions:
- Swap panko for crushed pork rinds for a keto-friendly version.
- Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make it GF-friendly.
- Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken tenders:
- Dredge in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange in the air fryer basket in a single layer and lightly spray with olive oil.
- Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Storage & Meal Prep:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes.
- Freeze raw breaded tenders for up to 3 months and cook from frozen.
Nutrition & Dietary Info (Per Serving)
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbs: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
Serving Suggestions & Topping Ideas
- Pair with ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
- Serve with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad.
- Add to a wrap or sandwich for a quick meal.
- Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or fresh parsley for garnish.
FAQs
1. Can I make these without an air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
2. How do I make them extra crispy?
Lightly spray with olive oil before cooking and avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
3. Can I use chicken breast instead?
Absolutely! Just slice into thin strips before breading.
4. What’s the best way to freeze them?
Freeze raw tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag.
5. How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the tenders and let them rest for 5 minutes before cooking.
Enjoy these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, a crispy, juicy, and healthier way to enjoy a classic favorite!
