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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

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3.9 from 13 reviews

Crispy and flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Tenders made with seasoned breadcrumbs and panko, coated in egg, and air fried to golden perfection. This quick and easy recipe delivers tender, juicy chicken with a crunchy exterior, perfect for a healthy family meal or snack.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 12 chicken tenders (1 1/4 lbs)
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Black pepper, to taste

Breading

  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs

Additional

  • Olive oil spray
  • Lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken tenders evenly with kosher salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor.
  2. Prepare your dipping stations: Place the beaten eggs in a shallow bowl. In a separate shallow bowl, combine the seasoned breadcrumbs and panko breadcrumbs thoroughly.
  3. Bread the chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it into the breadcrumb mixture. Shake off any excess crumbs and arrange the breaded tenders on a large dish or cutting board. Spray both sides generously with olive oil spray to help achieve a crisp finish.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and allow it to preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
  5. Cook the chicken tenders: Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on one side until golden and crispy, then flip and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F) and the coating is crispy and golden brown.
  6. Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve immediately with lemon wedges for an added burst of fresh flavor.

Notes

  • To maintain crispiness from batch to batch, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
  • Seasoned breadcrumbs can be made or store-bought; adjust salt and pepper accordingly.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked to 165°F.
  • Olive oil spray is used to keep the breading crispy without adding excess oil.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs and panko with gluten-free alternatives.

Find it online: https://cozyplatter.com/air-fryer-chicken-tenders-recipe/