Name: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders in 25 Minutes Flat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; 1 cup breadcrumbs; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; 2 eggs; ¼ cup milk; Cooking spray

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These crispy and juicy chicken tenders are cooked in an air fryer for a healthier alternative to deep frying. With a golden, crunchy exterior and tender, juicy inside, these chicken tenders are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders in 25 Minutes Flat

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Not only are these chicken tenders crisp and delicious, but they’re also a healthier option than traditional deep-fried tenders. The air fryer gives them that perfect crunch without the extra oil, making them lighter but still full of flavor. Plus, they cook in just 25 minutes, making them a great option for a fast weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crispiness)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 eggs
¼ cup milk
Cooking spray

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Air Fryer – Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat.
Prepare the Coating – In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Prepare the Egg Mixture – In another bowl, whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined.
Coat the Chicken – Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, coat the tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.
Air Fry the Chicken – Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray them with cooking spray.
Cook the Tenders – Cook the chicken tenders for 10 minutes, flip them over, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until they’re golden, crispy, and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve – Serve your crispy chicken tenders hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy Chicken Tenders – Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Herbed Chicken Tenders – Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
Gluten-Free Version – Swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.

Storage

Storing Leftovers – Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating – Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore the crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips to make your own chicken tenders. Just adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the thickness of the strips.

Do I need to use breadcrumbs?

Breadcrumbs are essential for getting the crispy exterior. If you don’t have breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.

Can I cook these chicken tenders in the oven instead?

Yes, you can bake these tenders in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. However, the air fryer will give them a crispier texture.

Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze the coated chicken tenders before cooking. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. To cook from frozen, air fry at 400°F for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?

The chicken tenders are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Conclusion

These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are the perfect quick and easy meal. They’re light, crispy, and full of flavor, making them a hit for the whole family. Whether served with a dipping sauce or alongside your favorite sides, they’re sure to become a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a healthier alternative to fried chicken. Enjoy!