Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier and equally delicious alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. They achieve a perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior with minimal oil, making them a guilt-free and quick meal option for the whole family.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes (plus marinating time)
- Yield: Servings: 4-6
- Category: Dinner
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins
- Marinade:
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Breading:
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray (avocado or olive oil recommended)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenderloins and ensure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.
- Prepare the Breading: In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs), Parmesan cheese (if using), smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken tenderloins from the buttermilk marinade and let any excess drip off. Dredge each tenderloin in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated. Press the breadcrumbs gently to adhere.
- Preheat and Cook: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches.
- Cook: Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.
Notes
- Chicken: Use fresh or thawed chicken tenderloins. Trimming off any excess fat helps the breading adhere better.
- Buttermilk Marinade: The buttermilk marinade helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar added to it. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Breading: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs. You can also use gluten-free breadcrumbs. Adjust the spices to your preference. Add a pinch of cayenne for some heat.
- Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Oil: Lightly spraying the chicken with cooking spray helps the breading brown and crisp up. Don’t overspray, or the breading may become soggy.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces (honey mustard, ranch, BBQ, ketchup), or alongside a salad, fries, or roasted vegetables.