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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: Juicy, Golden, and Ready Fast

Close-up of golden brown, crispy air fryer chicken tenders stacked on a white plate, one is broken open showing white meat.
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Make ultra-crispy air fryer chicken tenders at home. These tenders are juicy inside and crunchy outside, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or snack. This recipe uses simple ingredients for restaurant-quality crunch without deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray (or 1 tablespoon oil for brushing)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This step helps the coating stick.
  2. Set up a standard breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well.
  3. In the second dish, lightly beat the eggs.
  4. In the third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
  5. Take one chicken tender at a time and dredge it first in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
  6. Next, dip the floured tender into the beaten egg, letting excess drip off.
  7. Finally, press the tender firmly into the panko breadcrumbs until fully coated. Place the coated tender on a clean plate. Repeat with all tenders.
  8. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  9. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; work in batches if necessary.
  10. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray or brush with a small amount of oil for extra browning.
  11. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time.
  12. The tenders are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  13. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • For the juiciest results, do not overcook the tenders past 165°F internal temperature.
  • If you want a low-carb option, skip the flour and panko. Instead, season the raw tenders heavily with spices and spray well with oil before air frying at 380°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • These homemade chicken tenders freeze well. Cool completely, then place on a baking sheet to freeze solid before transferring to a freezer bag for up to three months.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://mdlatdmm.com/air-fryer-chicken-tenders-crispy-juicy-fast/