Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Introduction
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are the perfect quick meal: crispy, golden, and full of flavor without deep-frying. They’re kid-friendly, high-protein, and ready in minutes. Whether you serve them with fries, a salad, or your favorite dip, these tenders will become a go-to in your kitchen.Great for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep — and you only need a few simple ingredients!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 9–12 minutes
Total Time: 20–22 minutes
Air Fryer Temperature: 400°F (200°C)
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Chicken Tenders
1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil (or 1 beaten egg for breaded version)
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp chili flakes (optional)
For Breaded (Crunchy) Version — Optional
1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
½ cup grated parmesan
1 egg, beaten
Instructions
Prep the Chicken
Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
If using chicken breasts, slice into strips.
Season
In a bowl, mix:
Salt · Pepper · Garlic Powder · Paprika · Onion Powder · Italian Seasoning.
Add chicken and coat well with olive oil + seasoning.
Optional: Breaded Crispy Version
Beat 1 egg in a bowl.
In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs + parmesan.
Dip each tender into egg → then into breadcrumbs to coat.
Press gently for a good crust.
Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Arrange tenders in a single layer (not touching).
Air fry 9–12 minutes, flipping halfway at 5 minutes.
Internal temperature must reach 165°F (74°C).
Breaded tenders: Lightly spray with oil for maximum crunch.
Serve
Enjoy hot with your favorite dip:
Garlic mayo
Sriracha mayo
Ranch
Honey mustard
BBQ sauce
Sweet chili sauce
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders
Don’t overcrowd the basket → they won’t crisp.
For extra juiciness: marinate in buttermilk for 30 minutes.
For extra crisp: use panko breadcrumbs.
Slice breasts evenly so all cook same time.
Add a little oil spray before air frying for golden color.
Variations
Spicy Buffalo
Toss cooked tenders in buffalo sauce + melted butter.
Lemon Herb
Season with lemon zest, thyme, rosemary, garlic.
Honey Garlic
Brush with honey + garlic + soy sauce during last 2 minutes.
Tandoori Tenders
Marinate in yogurt, ginger, garlic, chili powder, turmeric, cumin.
Parmesan Crusted
Mix extra parmesan with panko for a cheesy crisp crust.
Serving Ideas
With fries or potato wedges
Over pasta or rice bowls
In wraps or sandwiches
On salads
With roasted veggies
Precautions
Always check internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
If cooking from frozen, add 4–6 extra minutes.
Avoid too much oil spray — can make them soggy.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are simple, fast, and always a winner. Whether you choose seasoned or crispy breaded, they turn out golden and juicy every time. Perfect for busy days, family meals, or meal prep!