Air-Fryer Chicken Tenders, No Breading

If you’re looking for a healthier twist on a classic comfort food, then you’ve landed in the right place! These Air-Fryer Chicken Tenders, No Breading are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, offering all the satisfaction of traditional chicken tenders without the extra calories from breading. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a snack, these tenders are seasoned to perfection and can be ready in no time. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

Why I Love This Recipe

There’s something magical about the air fryer that transforms chicken into a crisp, juicy delight without needing to deep fry or bread them. The simplicity of this recipe is what excites me most. With just three ingredients, it’s not only easy to make but also allows the natural flavor of the chicken to shine through. The olive oil and seasoning salt enhance the taste beautifully, ensuring that each bite is packed with flavor. Plus, these tenders are perfect for picky eaters and can be paired with a variety of dips and sides, making them a versatile addition to any meal.

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 pound chicken tenders – Fresh or thawed, these are the star of the show!
• 2 teaspoons olive oil – This adds moisture and helps the seasonings stick.
• Seasoning salt – To taste, for a flavorful kick.

What You’ll Need (Gear)

• Air fryer – The main appliance for achieving that crispy texture.
• Mixing bowl – For tossing the chicken with oil and seasonings.
• Tongs – To easily flip the chicken tenders while cooking.
• Meat thermometer – To ensure your chicken is cooked to perfection.

Air-Fryer Chicken Tenders, No Breading, Made Easy

Step 1: Prep Your Chicken

Start by rinsing the chicken tenders under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings adhere better.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, add the chicken tenders along with the olive oil and seasoning salt. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. Feel free to adjust the amount of seasoning salt to suit your taste preferences.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Tenders

Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for them to be fully cooked.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside a fresh salad for a delightful meal.

Allergy-Friendly Substitutes

• Olive oil: Can be replaced with avocado oil or melted coconut oil.
• Seasoning salt: Use garlic powder, onion powder, or a homemade spice blend if sodium is a concern.

What Could Go Wrong

Cooking can sometimes be a bit tricky, and here are a few things to watch out for:

• Overcrowding the basket: This can lead to uneven cooking and a lack of crispiness. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping this step can result in less crispy chicken.
• Using chicken that’s not fully thawed: Always ensure your chicken is completely thawed for even cooking.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

If you have leftovers, store your Air-Fryer Chicken Tenders, No Breading in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through. This will help retain their crispiness.

Quick Q&A

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

While it’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken tenders for the best texture, you can use frozen ones. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes and ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.

What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?

These chicken tenders are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sauces such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy sriracha mayo!

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, which can impact the cooking time and crispiness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! These tenders store well and can be made ahead of time for a quick meal during the week. Just follow the storage guide for the best results.

One Pan, More Ideas

• Air-Fryer Vegetables – Pair your chicken with delicious air-fried veggies for a complete meal.
• Air-Fryer Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges make a perfect side dish.
• Air-Fryer Broccoli – A healthy and tasty side that cooks perfectly in the air fryer.
• Air-Fryer Quesadillas – A quick and easy lunch option that complements the tenders well.

Wrap-Up

In the world of cooking, simplicity often reigns supreme, and these Air-Fryer Chicken Tenders, No Breading are a testament to that. With just three ingredients, a bit of seasoning, and your trusty air fryer, you can whip up a batch of crispy, juicy chicken tenders that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, packing them for lunch, or enjoying them as a snack, these tenders are sure to impress.

So, grab your air fryer, and let’s get cooking! You’ll soon find that homemade chicken tenders are not only easy to prepare but also a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish without the added guilt. Happy cooking!