Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a fantastic choice for a quick and healthy meal. They are crispy on the outside yet tender and juicy on the inside, making them a favorite for both kids and adults. With minimal oil and a simple cooking method, you can enjoy a classic favorite without the guilt.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- 10 to 12 chicken tenders
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Olive oil non-stick spray
- Fresh parsley (chopped for garnish, optional)
Directions:
- In one shallow bowl, beat the eggs and mix in the mayonnaise until well combined. The mayonnaise will add extra moisture to the chicken, keeping it tender and juicy.
- In a separate shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg and mayonnaise mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Roll the chicken tender in the panko mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even cooking.
- Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with oil spray.
- Air fry the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy on the outside and fully cooked on the inside.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders are perfect for a family dinner or as a game day snack. Serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard. They pair well with a fresh salad or crispy fries for a complete meal.
How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers, store the chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay good for about 2-3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer for a few minutes at 400°F (200°C) until crispy again.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Make sure to coat the chicken tenders well in the egg mixture and then the panko breadcrumbs to achieve a crispy texture.
- Preheating the air fryer is important for even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
Variation
For a spicy kick, add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the panko mixture. You can also use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes, and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
2. Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten-free.
3. What can I serve with chicken tenders?
You can serve them with various dips such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. They also go well with fresh veggies or a light salad.
