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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Easy and Flavorful Recipe

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- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch) - Cooking spray or olive oil spray For this recipe, I focus on simple, quality ingredients. The chicken breasts are the star, providing a tender bite. Buttermilk does wonders, keeping the chicken juicy. Flour helps create a nice crust. The seasonings boost flavor. Garlic and onion powder add depth. Smoked paprika gives a warm touch. Salt and pepper bring balance. Cayenne adds a hint of heat, but feel free to skip it if you prefer mild. Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to for crunch. They create a crispy outer layer that makes each bite delightful. A light spray of oil ensures an even golden finish. Gather these ingredients, and you will be on your way to making delicious crispy air fryer chicken tenders. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by soaking your chicken strips in buttermilk. This step is key. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes. This gives the chicken time to soak up all that goodness. Next, mix the dry ingredients for the coating. In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you like some heat, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. In another dish, place 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Panko works best for extra crunch. Once the chicken has marinated, take it out and shake off any excess buttermilk. Dip each strip into the flour mixture first. Then, shake off the excess flour. Next, dip the strip into the breadcrumbs. Press down gently. This helps the breadcrumbs stick well. Before you cook, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats, spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This will help the chicken not to stick. Now it’s time to cook! Place the coated chicken strips in a single layer in the basket. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray. Cook for 8-10 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. Check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken tenders. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Honey mustard or barbecue sauce is a great choice! To get that perfect crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. They create a light and crispy coating. Regular breadcrumbs can work, but panko gives a better texture. For even coating, shake off excess flour and breadcrumbs. This helps the coating stick. Make sure each piece is well-coated for the best crunch. You can boost flavor by adding herbs and spices to the coating mix. Try adding dried oregano or thyme for a fresh taste. For a kick, increase the cayenne pepper. Marinating is also key. Soaking chicken in buttermilk adds flavor and keeps it juicy. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to really absorb those flavors. For the best look, arrange the chicken tenders on a nice platter. You can garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color. Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue for added flavor. Serve with crunchy veggies or fries on the side for a fun meal. Pro Tips Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, for maximum tenderness and flavor. Crunchy Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture that elevates your chicken tenders. Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken strips are of uniform size for even cooking and browning in the air fryer. Resting Time: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking to maintain juiciness before serving. {{image_2}} You can change up the flavors of your chicken tenders easily. Here are two tasty ideas: - BBQ chicken tenders: After coating your chicken, brush on your favorite BBQ sauce before air frying. This adds a sweet and smoky flavor that is hard to resist. - Spicy buffalo chicken tenders: Mix hot sauce into your buttermilk for a spicy kick. You can also toss the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for extra heat. If you want a gluten-free meal, it's easy to swap out some ingredients. Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. For the breading, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, you can enjoy crispy chicken without the gluten. Not everyone has an air fryer, and that's okay! You can bake the chicken tenders in the oven. Here’s how: - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. - Spray them lightly with cooking spray for a crispy finish. - Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Check that the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. These variations let you enjoy chicken tenders your way! To store leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool first. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. I recommend using glass containers. They hold heat well and do not stain. Store the chicken tenders in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze chicken tenders, let them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. Chicken tenders can last up to three months in the freezer. For reheating, use the air fryer if you want to keep them crispy. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. You can also use the oven. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes. This keeps them warm and crispy. Yes, you can use frozen chicken strips! Here are tips for using them: - Thaw first: Let the chicken strips thaw in the fridge overnight. - Marinate: Even frozen strips can soak in buttermilk, but marinate longer if possible. - Adjust cooking time: Cook for an extra few minutes to ensure they are done. To enhance crunch, follow these techniques: - Use panko breadcrumbs: They add a great crunch. - Double coat: Coat in flour, dip in buttermilk, and roll in breadcrumbs twice. - Spray oil: Lightly spray the chicken with oil before cooking for a crispier finish. Here are popular dipping sauce options: - Honey mustard: Sweet and tangy, a classic choice. - Barbecue sauce: Smoky and flavorful, great for dipping. - Ranch dressing: Creamy and cool, pairs well with crispy chicken. - Buffalo sauce: For a spicy kick, it's a fan favorite. In summary, you learned how to make delicious chicken tenders. We discussed key ingredients like chicken, buttermilk, and spices. You also gained step-by-step instructions for marinating, coating, and cooking. Tips for texture and flavor variations were shared to enhance your dish. Finally, remember to store leftovers properly and try different sauces. Enjoy your crunchy chicken tenders! They are perfect for any meal or snack.

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Looking for a quick and tasty meal? You’ll love these crispy air fryer chicken tenders! They are easy to make and pack a punch of flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s perfect for dinner or a snack. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe and transform ordinary chicken into a crispy delight that everyone will enjoy!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or quick lunches.
  2. Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives these chicken tenders a delightful crunch without the excess oil.
  3. Flavorful Marinade: Soaking the chicken in buttermilk infuses it with moisture and flavor, ensuring juicy bites.
  4. Versatile Serving Options: These tenders can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, making them a hit for all ages.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour

Seasoning and Coating

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For this recipe, I focus on simple, quality ingredients. The chicken breasts are the star, providing a tender bite. Buttermilk does wonders, keeping the chicken juicy. Flour helps create a nice crust.

The seasonings boost flavor. Garlic and onion powder add depth. Smoked paprika gives a warm touch. Salt and pepper bring balance. Cayenne adds a hint of heat, but feel free to skip it if you prefer mild.

Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to for crunch. They create a crispy outer layer that makes each bite delightful. A light spray of oil ensures an even golden finish.

Gather these ingredients, and you will be on your way to making delicious crispy air fryer chicken tenders.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

Start by soaking your chicken strips in buttermilk. This step is key. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes. This gives the chicken time to soak up all that goodness.

Preparing the Coating

Next, mix the dry ingredients for the coating. In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you like some heat, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. In another dish, place 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Panko works best for extra crunch.

Coating the Chicken

Once the chicken has marinated, take it out and shake off any excess buttermilk. Dip each strip into the flour mixture first. Then, shake off the excess flour. Next, dip the strip into the breadcrumbs. Press down gently. This helps the breadcrumbs stick well.

Air Fryer Preparation

Before you cook, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats, spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This will help the chicken not to stick.

Cooking the Chicken Tenders

Now it’s time to cook! Place the coated chicken strips in a single layer in the basket. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray. Cook for 8-10 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. Check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).

Serving Suggestions

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken tenders. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Honey mustard or barbecue sauce is a great choice!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Texture

To get that perfect crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. They create a light and crispy coating. Regular breadcrumbs can work, but panko gives a better texture. For even coating, shake off excess flour and breadcrumbs. This helps the coating stick. Make sure each piece is well-coated for the best crunch.

Flavor Enhancements

You can boost flavor by adding herbs and spices to the coating mix. Try adding dried oregano or thyme for a fresh taste. For a kick, increase the cayenne pepper. Marinating is also key. Soaking chicken in buttermilk adds flavor and keeps it juicy. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to really absorb those flavors.

Serving and Presentation

For the best look, arrange the chicken tenders on a nice platter. You can garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color. Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue for added flavor. Serve with crunchy veggies or fries on the side for a fun meal.

Pro Tips

  1. Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, for maximum tenderness and flavor.
  2. Crunchy Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture that elevates your chicken tenders.
  3. Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken strips are of uniform size for even cooking and browning in the air fryer.
  4. Resting Time: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking to maintain juiciness before serving.

Variations

Flavor Variations

You can change up the flavors of your chicken tenders easily. Here are two tasty ideas:

  • BBQ chicken tenders: After coating your chicken, brush on your favorite BBQ sauce before air frying. This adds a sweet and smoky flavor that is hard to resist.
  • Spicy buffalo chicken tenders: Mix hot sauce into your buttermilk for a spicy kick. You can also toss the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for extra heat.

Gluten-Free Option

If you want a gluten-free meal, it’s easy to swap out some ingredients. Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. For the breading, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, you can enjoy crispy chicken without the gluten.

Oven-Baked Alternative

Not everyone has an air fryer, and that’s okay! You can bake the chicken tenders in the oven. Here’s how:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Spray them lightly with cooking spray for a crispy finish.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Check that the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.

These variations let you enjoy chicken tenders your way!

Storage Info

Refrigeration

To store leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool first. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. I recommend using glass containers. They hold heat well and do not stain. Store the chicken tenders in the fridge for up to three days.

Freezing Chicken Tenders

To freeze chicken tenders, let them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. Chicken tenders can last up to three months in the freezer.

Reheating Tips

For reheating, use the air fryer if you want to keep them crispy. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. You can also use the oven. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes. This keeps them warm and crispy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken strips! Here are tips for using them:

  • Thaw first: Let the chicken strips thaw in the fridge overnight.
  • Marinate: Even frozen strips can soak in buttermilk, but marinate longer if possible.
  • Adjust cooking time: Cook for an extra few minutes to ensure they are done.

How do I make chicken tenders extra crispy?

To enhance crunch, follow these techniques:

  • Use panko breadcrumbs: They add a great crunch.
  • Double coat: Coat in flour, dip in buttermilk, and roll in breadcrumbs twice.
  • Spray oil: Lightly spray the chicken with oil before cooking for a crispier finish.

What dipping sauces pair well with chicken tenders?

Here are popular dipping sauce options:

  • Honey mustard: Sweet and tangy, a classic choice.
  • Barbecue sauce: Smoky and flavorful, great for dipping.
  • Ranch dressing: Creamy and cool, pairs well with crispy chicken.
  • Buffalo sauce: For a spicy kick, it’s a fan favorite.

In summary, you learned how to make delicious chicken tenders. We discussed key ingredients like chicken, buttermilk, and spices. You also gained step-by-step instructions for marinating, coating, and cooking. Tips for texture and flavor variations were shared to enhance your dish.

Finally, remember to store leftovers properly and try different sauces. Enjoy your crunchy chicken tenders! They are perfect for any meal or snac

- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat) - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch) - Cooking spray or olive oil spray For this recipe, I focus on simple, quality ingredients. The chicken breasts are the star, providing a tender bite. Buttermilk does wonders, keeping the chicken juicy. Flour helps create a nice crust. The seasonings boost flavor. Garlic and onion powder add depth. Smoked paprika gives a warm touch. Salt and pepper bring balance. Cayenne adds a hint of heat, but feel free to skip it if you prefer mild. Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to for crunch. They create a crispy outer layer that makes each bite delightful. A light spray of oil ensures an even golden finish. Gather these ingredients, and you will be on your way to making delicious crispy air fryer chicken tenders. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by soaking your chicken strips in buttermilk. This step is key. The buttermilk helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes. This gives the chicken time to soak up all that goodness. Next, mix the dry ingredients for the coating. In a shallow dish, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. If you like some heat, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. In another dish, place 1 cup of breadcrumbs. Panko works best for extra crunch. Once the chicken has marinated, take it out and shake off any excess buttermilk. Dip each strip into the flour mixture first. Then, shake off the excess flour. Next, dip the strip into the breadcrumbs. Press down gently. This helps the breadcrumbs stick well. Before you cook, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. While it heats, spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This will help the chicken not to stick. Now it’s time to cook! Place the coated chicken strips in a single layer in the basket. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray. Cook for 8-10 minutes. Flip the chicken halfway through for even cooking. Check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken tenders. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps keep them juicy. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces. Honey mustard or barbecue sauce is a great choice! To get that perfect crunch, use panko breadcrumbs. They create a light and crispy coating. Regular breadcrumbs can work, but panko gives a better texture. For even coating, shake off excess flour and breadcrumbs. This helps the coating stick. Make sure each piece is well-coated for the best crunch. You can boost flavor by adding herbs and spices to the coating mix. Try adding dried oregano or thyme for a fresh taste. For a kick, increase the cayenne pepper. Marinating is also key. Soaking chicken in buttermilk adds flavor and keeps it juicy. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes to really absorb those flavors. For the best look, arrange the chicken tenders on a nice platter. You can garnish with fresh parsley or basil for color. Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue for added flavor. Serve with crunchy veggies or fries on the side for a fun meal. Pro Tips Marination Magic: Allow the chicken to marinate in buttermilk for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight, for maximum tenderness and flavor. Crunchy Coating: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crispy texture that elevates your chicken tenders. Even Cooking: Ensure the chicken strips are of uniform size for even cooking and browning in the air fryer. Resting Time: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking to maintain juiciness before serving. {{image_2}} You can change up the flavors of your chicken tenders easily. Here are two tasty ideas: - BBQ chicken tenders: After coating your chicken, brush on your favorite BBQ sauce before air frying. This adds a sweet and smoky flavor that is hard to resist. - Spicy buffalo chicken tenders: Mix hot sauce into your buttermilk for a spicy kick. You can also toss the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for extra heat. If you want a gluten-free meal, it's easy to swap out some ingredients. Use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour. For the breading, choose gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, you can enjoy crispy chicken without the gluten. Not everyone has an air fryer, and that's okay! You can bake the chicken tenders in the oven. Here’s how: - Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). - Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. - Spray them lightly with cooking spray for a crispy finish. - Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway. Check that the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety. These variations let you enjoy chicken tenders your way! To store leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool first. Place them in an airtight container. This helps keep them fresh. I recommend using glass containers. They hold heat well and do not stain. Store the chicken tenders in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze chicken tenders, let them cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Remove as much air as possible. Chicken tenders can last up to three months in the freezer. For reheating, use the air fryer if you want to keep them crispy. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders in the basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes. You can also use the oven. Set it to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes. This keeps them warm and crispy. Yes, you can use frozen chicken strips! Here are tips for using them: - Thaw first: Let the chicken strips thaw in the fridge overnight. - Marinate: Even frozen strips can soak in buttermilk, but marinate longer if possible. - Adjust cooking time: Cook for an extra few minutes to ensure they are done. To enhance crunch, follow these techniques: - Use panko breadcrumbs: They add a great crunch. - Double coat: Coat in flour, dip in buttermilk, and roll in breadcrumbs twice. - Spray oil: Lightly spray the chicken with oil before cooking for a crispier finish. Here are popular dipping sauce options: - Honey mustard: Sweet and tangy, a classic choice. - Barbecue sauce: Smoky and flavorful, great for dipping. - Ranch dressing: Creamy and cool, pairs well with crispy chicken. - Buffalo sauce: For a spicy kick, it's a fan favorite. In summary, you learned how to make delicious chicken tenders. We discussed key ingredients like chicken, buttermilk, and spices. You also gained step-by-step instructions for marinating, coating, and cooking. Tips for texture and flavor variations were shared to enhance your dish. Finally, remember to store leftovers properly and try different sauces. Enjoy your crunchy chicken tenders! They are perfect for any meal or snack.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Deliciously crispy chicken tenders made in an air fryer, perfect for a quick meal or snack.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko preferred for extra crunch)
  • to taste spray cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, soak the chicken strips in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
  • In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. In another dish, place the breadcrumbs.
  • Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and shake off any excess. Dip each strip into the flour mixture, then shake off the excess. Next, dip into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken strips in a single layer in the basket. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil spray for an extra crispy finish.
  • Air fry the chicken tenders for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
  • Once done, carefully remove the chicken tenders and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Arrange the chicken tenders on a platter and garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue sauce on the side for added flair.
Keyword air fryer, chicken tenders, crispy, easy recipe

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