Description
Crispy, juicy, and easy to make, these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are perfect for a quick lunch or family dinner. Healthier than fried, they’re made with simple pantry ingredients and ready in under 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders (about 1.25 lb)
- 1½ tsp salt, divided
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper, divided
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup plain regular breadcrumbs
- ½ cup plain panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1¼ tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
Instructions
- 1. Place the chicken tenders on a cutting board. Season with ½ tsp salt and ½ tsp black pepper. Sprinkle flour and toss to coat.
- 2. Whisk eggs in a shallow bowl. In another bowl, combine both breadcrumbs, remaining seasonings, salt, and pepper.
- 3. Dip each tender into the egg, then coat with breadcrumbs. Press breadcrumbs in for even coverage.
- 4. Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Place tenders in a single layer. Spray tops with oil spray.
- 5. Air fry for 7 minutes. Flip, spray again, and cook another 6 minutes.
- 6. Remove, let cool 3–5 minutes, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- You can cut chicken breasts lengthwise if you don’t have pre-cut tenders.
- Use buttermilk instead of eggs for a tangier flavor.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 13 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tenders
- Calories: 254
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 1179mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg