Air fryer chicken tenders are a game-changer for busy families who want a crispy, delicious dinner without the mess or extra oil of traditional frying. These tenders are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs that crisp up beautifully in the air fryer, giving you that golden crunch everyone loves. The best part? They’re quick to make and perfect for picky eaters who might shy away from anything too fancy.

This recipe is ideal for lunch or dinner and pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a fresh salad or sweet potato wedges. Because they’re freezer-friendly, you can make a big batch ahead of time, saving you precious minutes on hectic days. Plus, air frying means less cleanup and less guilt, making it a win-win for the whole family.

Whether you’re new to air frying or a seasoned pro, these chicken tenders deliver that perfect crispy texture without any greasy aftermath. They’re a crowd-pleaser that’s easy enough to whip up after work or on a lazy weekend.

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 400–500 calories per serving

Ingredients

• Chicken tenders
• Breadcrumbs
• Eggs
• Flour
• Salt and pepper
• Paprika
• Garlic powder
• Olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

• Prepare the Breading Station: Set out separate bowls for flour, beaten eggs, and seasoned breadcrumbs.
• Coat the Chicken: Dredge chicken tenders in flour, dip into eggs, then coat evenly with breadcrumbs.
• Preheat the Air Fryer: Heat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
• Air Fry the Tenders: Arrange tenders in a single layer in the basket, spray lightly with oil, and cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Check and Serve: Ensure tenders are cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F, then serve with your favorite sides.

Substitutions & Variations

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunchy coating, swap regular breadcrumbs for panko.
• Add Spice: Mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into the seasoning for a mild kick.

What Equipment You’ll Need

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Tongs or fork

Storage & Reheating Guidelines

• Storage: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to restore crispiness.

Top Tips

• Use Parchment Paper: Lining the basket makes clean-up much easier.
• Flip for Even Cooking: Turn tenders halfway through for an even golden crust.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Leave space between tenders so they crisp up properly.
• Serve with Dips: Ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard are great pairing choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I freeze the chicken tenders before or after cooking?
  Yes, you can freeze both breaded uncooked tenders and fully cooked ones. Freeze uncooked tenders on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a bag. Reheat cooked tenders in the air fryer for best results.
• What’s the best way to make these tenders extra crispy?
  Use panko breadcrumbs and spray the tenders lightly with oil before air frying. Flipping halfway also helps ensure even crispiness on all sides.
• Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
  Yes, cut chicken breast into strips of similar size to tenders for even cooking. Adjust the cooking time slightly if pieces are thicker.

Related Recipes

• Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Nuggets: Juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside—perfect for a fast, kid-friendly dinner.
• Beef and Cheese Sliders: Mini burgers that are big on flavor and fun for the whole family.

Food Safety Guidelines

• Cook to Temperature: Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• Avoid Cross-Contamination: Use separate utensils and bowls for raw and cooked chicken.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers within two hours to prevent bacteria growth.
• Reheat Thoroughly: Heat leftovers evenly until hot throughout before eating.