Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

There’s something inherently comforting about crispy, golden chicken tenders, especially when they’re made in an Air Fryer. I remember the first time I decided to try making these at home; I was craving that crunch that usually comes from frying but wanted a healthier version. So, I whipped out my Air Fryer and got to work. The anticipation filled the kitchen as I prepped my ingredients, and soon enough, I was met with the irresistible aroma of perfectly cooked chicken tenders. These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders became a staple in my household, loved by adults and kids alike. The ease of preparation and the minimal clean-up is just a bonus!

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Ingredients

When it comes to making these delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, the ingredients are simple yet effective. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect crunch and flavor. The key players here are the chicken tenders, which provide the juicy base, and the coating, which delivers that satisfying crunch. Together, they create a delightful dish that everyone loves.

• 6 cups of white or yellow corn tortilla chips (or 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs and ¼ teaspoon salt): Perfect for creating a crispy and flavorful coating that adheres beautifully to the chicken.
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour (or cup-for-cup gluten-free flour): This helps the egg adhere and gives the chicken a nice texture.
• 2 eggs: Beaten lightly, they act as the glue that holds the coating on the chicken.
• 1 pound of chicken tenders: The star of the show, these juicy pieces of chicken are perfect for frying.

The Method for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Making these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is as easy as pie! The method is straightforward, and the results are always delicious. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a fun cooking experience. Let’s dive into the steps!

1. Start by preheating the Air Fryer to 400 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures your chicken tenders cook evenly and develop that crispy texture we all love. While it heats, prepare your ingredients so everything is ready to go.

2. Next, take your tortilla chips and place them in a food processor or blender. Pulse them until you’ve created fine crumbs, which should yield about 1 cup. This crumb mixture is what will coat your chicken and give it that delightful crunch.

3. Pour the crushed tortilla chips into a shallow dish or pie plate. This makes it easy to dredge the chicken tenders later. It’s important to have a good coating so that every bite is flavorful.

4. In a second shallow dish, add the flour. This will be the first step in the dredging process. Having everything in place makes the cooking flow seamlessly and keeps your workspace tidy.

5. Now, crack the eggs into another shallow dish and beat them lightly. This will serve as the binding agent that helps the crumbs stick to the chicken. It’s a simple step, but it’s essential for achieving that perfect coating.

6. Take one chicken tender at a time. First, dredge it completely in the flour, shaking off any excess. This step not only adds texture but also helps the egg mixture adhere better.

7. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. This is where the magic happens, as the egg will help the crumbs stick during cooking.

8. Finally, roll the tender in the crushed tortilla chips until it’s completely coated. Place it on the prepared rack or basket of the Air Fryer. Repeat this process for each chicken tender, making sure they don’t touch each other for even cooking.

9. Once all the tenders are in the Air Fryer, cook them for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is simply mouthwatering!

10. When they’re done, carefully remove the chicken tenders and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, marinara, or even applesauce. Enjoy!

Change It Up

If you’re looking to put a spin on your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, here are some ideas to get you started. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own!

• Storage: Store any leftover chicken tenders in the fridge in an airtight container. They can last for up to three days.
• Freezing: You can freeze these chicken tenders after cooking. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.
• Pairing: Serve these chicken tenders with a side of homemade coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Flavor Variations: Experiment with different seasonings in the flour or egg mixture, like garlic powder, paprika, or even a bit of cayenne for a kick.
• Serve with Sides: These tenders are great over a plate of pasta or served with rice and veggies for a balanced meal.

Serving Ideas for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

When it comes to serving your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, the options are endless. Here are some creative ideas to help you elevate this dish and make it even more enjoyable:

• Lunchboxes: Pack them in lunchboxes for a satisfying meal at school or work. Pair them with some fresh fruit and a dipping sauce for a complete lunch.
• Game Day Snacks: These chicken tenders are perfect for game day! Serve them on a platter with various dipping sauces and watch them disappear.
• Family Dinners: Make these chicken tenders the main dish for a cozy family dinner. Serve with mashed potatoes and steamed vegetables for a comforting meal.
• Picnics: They’re also great for picnics. Just pack them in a container, and they can be enjoyed cold or warmed up at the park.
• Seasonal Pairings: In summer, pair them with a refreshing corn salad. In winter, serve with roasted seasonal vegetables for a hearty meal.
• Kids’ Parties: These chicken tenders are a hit at kids’ parties. Create a fun dipping station with various sauces to keep everything exciting.

FAQ

Conclusion

The Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are not just another dinner option; they’re a delicious way to satisfy your cravings for comfort food while keeping it healthy. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and see how quickly they become a family favorite. With their crispy exterior and juicy inside, they’re sure to impress everyone at the table. Give them a go tonight, and I promise you’ll want to make them again and again!

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

The ultimate comfort food meets healthy cooking with these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, they’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. Try them tonight for a delicious meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

• Air Fryer

Ingredients

  

• 6 cups White or yellow corn tortilla chips (or 1 cup panko breadcrumbs and ¼ teaspoon salt)
• 1 cup All-purpose flour (or cup-for-cup gluten-free flour)
• 2 Eggs
• 1 pound Chicken tenders

Instructions

 

• Start by preheating the Air Fryer to 400 degrees F. This step is crucial as it ensures your chicken tenders cook evenly and develop that crispy texture we all love. While it heats, prepare your ingredients so everything is ready to go.
• Next, take your tortilla chips and place them in a food processor or blender. Pulse them until you’ve created fine crumbs, which should yield about 1 cup. This crumb mixture is what will coat your chicken and give it that delightful crunch.
• Pour the crushed tortilla chips into a shallow dish or pie plate. This makes it easy to dredge the chicken tenders later. It’s important to have a good coating so that every bite is flavorful.
• In a second shallow dish, add the flour. This will be the first step in the dredging process. Having everything in place makes the cooking flow seamlessly and keeps your workspace tidy.
• Now, crack the eggs into another shallow dish and beat them lightly. This will serve as the binding agent that helps the crumbs stick to the chicken. It’s a simple step, but it’s essential for achieving that perfect coating.
• Take one chicken tender at a time. First, dredge it completely in the flour, shaking off any excess. This step not only adds texture but also helps the egg mixture adhere better.
• Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. This is where the magic happens, as the egg will help the crumbs stick during cooking.
• Finally, roll the tender in the crushed tortilla chips until it’s completely coated. Place it on the prepared rack or basket of the Air Fryer. Repeat this process for each chicken tender, making sure they don’t touch each other for even cooking.
• Once all the tenders are in the Air Fryer, cook them for 8 to 10 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. You can check for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this time is simply mouthwatering!
• When they’re done, carefully remove the chicken tenders and let them cool slightly. Serve them warm or at room temperature with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, ranch, marinara, or even applesauce. Enjoy!

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftover chicken tenders in the fridge in an airtight container. They can last for up to three days.
• Tip 2: You can freeze these chicken tenders after cooking. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag for up to three months.
• Tip 3: Serve these chicken tenders with a side of homemade coleslaw or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal.
• Tip 4: Experiment with different seasonings in the flour or egg mixture, like garlic powder, paprika, or even a bit of cayenne for a kick.
• Tip 5: These tenders are great over a plate of pasta or served with rice and veggies for a balanced meal.

Keyword Air Fryer Recipes, crispy chicken tenders, Healthy Chicken Recipe, Quick Dinner Idea

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!