Looking for a quick and healthy dinner option? These air fryer chicken tenders are your answer! Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, this recipe transforms traditional fried chicken into a wholesome meal that’s ideal for family dinners or weeknight meals. With minimal effort, you can have homemade chicken that everyone will love.
This dish is not just another recipe; it’s a delightful way to enjoy breaded chicken with the benefits of air fryer cooking. Imagine crispy chicken tenders that are healthier yet still deliver on taste! The best part? You can whip these up in no time, making them perfect for those busy evenings when you need easy chicken dinners ready in a flash.
Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Air fryer recipes have gained immense popularity, and for good reason. These crispy chicken tenders bring a delightful twist to traditional fried chicken while keeping health in mind.
The combination of a golden, breaded exterior with juicy chicken inside makes this recipe a hit for family dinners and busy weeknights. With minimal effort required, homemade chicken can be ready in no time, perfect for those looking for quick chicken recipes.
A Wholesome Meal Option
These air fryer chicken tenders are an excellent choice for anyone seeking healthy meals that don’t compromise on flavor. Each tender is coated to perfection, ensuring a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Pair them with sweet potato fries for a complete meal that appeals to both adults and children alike, making it one of the go-to easy chicken dinners in any household.
Ingredients and Preparation
Preparing these tenders involves a few simple ingredients like chicken breast, breadcrumbs, and spices. The chicken is seasoned and coated using a classic breading technique, making them perfect for air fryer cooking.
Setting up a breading station will streamline the process, allowing you to create crispy chicken tenders easily. With just a little cooking spray, the air fryer does its magic, turning your ingredients into a delicious dish.
Cooking in the Air Fryer
The air fryer is a game changer for anyone looking to enjoy crispy textures without the excess oil of traditional frying methods. Preheating to the right temperature ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and achieves that desired golden brown finish.
As they cook, the tenders will emit an irresistible aroma, inviting everyone to the table. Flipping them halfway through guarantees even crispiness on all sides, making them irresistible.
Serving Suggestions
Once the chicken tenders are cooked, serve them warm with a small dish of creamy honey mustard dipping sauce. The contrast of flavors will enhance the overall dining experience.
Garnishing with fresh herbs such as parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, while a side of sweet potato fries and a glass of iced tea completes this inviting meal.
The Perfect Family Dinner
Whether it’s a casual weeknight meal or a special family dinner, these air fryer chicken tenders are sure to impress. They not only satisfy cravings for crispy fried foods but also offer a healthier alternative.
Enjoy the delightful combination of juicy chicken and crispy breading, knowing that you’ve prepared a dish everyone will love. Your next family gathering is sure to be a hit with this dish on the table!
Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These air fryer chicken tenders are a fantastic option for those looking for healthy meals without sacrificing flavor. Coated in a golden breading, they are bursting with juiciness and make an irresistible pair with a creamy dipping sauce.
Ideal as a quick chicken recipe, these tenders can be served alongside sweet potato fries for a complete meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
- Creamy honey mustard dipping sauce for serving
- Fresh herbs (parsley) for garnish
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.
- Coat the Chicken: Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. Dredge each piece of chicken in flour, dip it in the egg, then coat it thoroughly with breadcrumbs.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket (you may need to do this in batches). Spray the tops with a little more cooking spray.
- Air Fry: Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let cool slightly. Serve with honey mustard dipping sauce and garnish with fresh herbs.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 300kcal
- Fat: 8g
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 30g