These air fried chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. With a crispy coating and juicy inside, they can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for a quick meal.
This recipe for air fried chicken tenders is straightforward and utilizes simple ingredients. You can enjoy crispy air fried chicken tenders that are sure to please the whole family.
Quick and Easy Air Fried Chicken Tenders
For those craving a healthier twist on a classic, crispy air fried chicken tenders are the perfect solution. These tenders boast a golden-brown exterior while remaining juicy on the inside, making them a delightful option for any meal.
With a preparation time of just 10 minutes and a cooking time of 15 minutes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings. The combination of seasoned breadcrumbs and tender chicken creates a satisfying crunch that pairs wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauce.
Preparation Steps for Perfect Chicken Tenders
To start, gather your ingredients and set up your workspace. Rinse the chicken tenders and pat them dry to ensure the coating adheres properly. Creating a breading station with flour, beaten eggs, and a seasoned breadcrumb mixture will streamline the process.
Each chicken tender should be dipped in flour, followed by the egg wash, and finally coated in the breadcrumb mixture. This three-step process guarantees a crispy finish that is characteristic of fried chicken tenders, but with the added benefit of being air fried.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is a crucial step that should not be overlooked. Set it to 400°F (200°C) for about five minutes before adding the breaded chicken tenders. This ensures that the tenders cook evenly and achieve that desired crispiness.
Place the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, giving them space to cook properly. A light spray of cooking oil will help enhance the golden color and crunch of the chicken tenders. Cooking them for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, will yield perfectly cooked air fried chicken tenders.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken tenders are done, allow them to rest for a couple of minutes. This resting period helps retain moisture and ensures a tender bite. Serve them alongside a small bowl of your favorite dipping sauce for an extra layer of flavor.
Fresh herbs sprinkled around the plate not only add a pop of color but also enhance the overall presentation. The rustic wooden table background complements the dish beautifully, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
These air fried chicken tenders are not just delicious; they are also a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. With approximately 250 calories per serving, they provide a satisfying meal without the guilt.
Rich in protein and lower in fat compared to their fried counterparts, these tenders are a great choice for those looking to enjoy a classic dish while maintaining a balanced diet. The use of an air fryer significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, making air fried chicken tenders a smart option for health-conscious individuals.
Conclusion: A Family Favorite
Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner or hosting a gathering, crispy air fried chicken tenders are sure to please everyone at the table. Their versatility allows for endless dipping sauce options, making each meal unique.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these air fryer chicken tenders are a must-try for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and healthier version of fried chicken tenders. Give them a try and watch them become a family favorite!
Quick and Easy Air Fried Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and cooked in an air fryer for a crispy finish. The recipe takes about 25 minutes from start to finish and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray or oil for spraying
Instructions
- Prep the Ingredients: Rinse the chicken tenders and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Set Up Breading Stations: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken Tenders: Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Spray lightly with cooking spray. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 26g
- Carbohydrates: 18g