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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: 5 Perfectly Crispy Steps to Enjoy


  • Author: ushinzomr

Description

These air fryer chicken tenders are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound chicken breast tenders
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, soak the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. In another bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Mix well.
  3. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  4. Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
  5. Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
  6. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
  7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk with spices for a few hours.
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary.
  • These chicken tenders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (2-3 tenders)
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 1
  • Sodium: 500
  • Fat: 8
  • Saturated Fat: 1
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 30
  • Fiber: 1
  • Protein: 30
  • Cholesterol: 75

Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, easy chicken tenders recipe, healthy chicken tenders, homemade chicken tenders