why make this recipe
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a quick and tasty meal option. They are perfect for a family dinner, game day, or just a snack. Using an air fryer makes these tenders crispy without deep frying, which is healthier for you. Plus, they are easy to make and everyone loves chicken tenders!
how to make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) chicken tenders or thinly sliced chicken breast strips
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (use panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for added flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray or non-stick cooking spray
Directions:
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
- In a bowl, whisk the egg yolks with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg yolk mixture, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to ensure even coating.
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t touch; cook in batches if needed. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray.
- Air fry at 180°C (350°F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
- Remove from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips: For extra crispiness, double-coat the chicken; feel free to adjust seasonings like paprika, cayenne, or Italian seasoning. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat at 160°C (320°F) for 3–4 minutes.
how to serve Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Serve the Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders hot. They are great alone or with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch. You can also pair them with a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a complete meal.
how to store Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
To store leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven for crispy results.
tips to make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- For an extra crunch, consider double-coating the chicken.
- Experiment with different spices according to your taste—try adding cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor.
- Make sure to spray the chicken tops lightly with olive oil to help them crisp up.
variation
You can make these tenders with a variety of coatings. Try using crushed cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs for a different texture. You can also add some hot sauce to the egg yolk mixture for spicy chicken tenders.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but adjust the cooking time. You may need to add a few extra minutes to ensure they are cooked through.
2. Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cornflakes to make a delicious gluten-free version.
3. What is the best way to reheat chicken tenders?
The best way to reheat chicken tenders is in an air fryer or oven at 160°C (320°F) for 3–4 minutes for crispy results. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make them soggy.