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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are golden brown on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor—without deep frying! These homemade tenders are perfect for an easy dinner, lunch, or snack, and they pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

For the Breading:

  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs (for better coating)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for flavor)
  • 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning (optional)

For the Egg Wash:

  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tbsp milk

For Cooking:

  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken:

  • Pat chicken tenders dry and season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder.

2. Set Up the Breading Station:

  • In one bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
  • In another bowl, mix panko, plain breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.

3. Coat the Chicken:

  • Dip each chicken tender into the egg wash, letting excess drip off.
  • Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating well.

4. Air Fry the Tenders:

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
  • Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray.
  • Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer (cook in batches if needed).
  • Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
  • Chicken is done when it reaches an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).

5. Serve & Enjoy!

  • Serve hot with ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or your favorite dip!


Notes

Make It Spicy: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg wash.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes at 375°F.
No Air Fryer? Bake at 425°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.