Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with crispy chicken tenders. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to golden perfection, they are a family-friendly option that never disappoints. This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic, ensuring you get all the flavor without the excess oil. Plus, the air fryer makes it incredibly easy to whip up a batch of these delicious tenders in no time!

Why It Deserves a Spot

This recipe deserves a spot in your weekly meal rotation for several reasons. First and foremost, it delivers juicy chicken enveloped in a crunchy exterior, thanks to the magic of panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal. The air fryer allows for a crispy texture without deep frying, making it a lighter alternative that still satisfies those cravings. Additionally, the buttermilk marinade infuses the chicken with flavor and tenderness, creating a dish that both kids and adults will love. And let’s not forget the versatility—these tenders can be enjoyed on their own, in a sandwich, or even tossed into a salad!

Ingredients at a Glance

• 1 pound chicken tenderloins (see note 1)
• 1 cup buttermilk (optional)
• 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons mayo (divided)
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 1 large egg
• 1 tablespoon Dijon-style mustard
• 1-1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
• 1-1/2 teaspoons paprika
• 1-1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (see note 2)
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup yellow cornmeal
• 1/2 cup flour
• Cooking spray
• 1 teaspoon yellow mustard
• 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 2 teaspoons honey BBQ sauce

Must-Have Equipment

• Air Fryer: The star of the show, providing that crispy texture without the oil.
• Mixing Bowls: For marinating the chicken and mixing the dry ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate ingredient measurements.
• Whisk: To combine the wet ingredients smoothly.
• Cooking Spray: Helps to achieve that golden crispiness.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe, Made Easy

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by marinating your chicken tenderloins. If using buttermilk, combine it with 2 tablespoons of mayo, and mix well. Add the chicken tenderloins to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight) to allow the flavors to meld and the chicken to tenderize.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

While the chicken is marinating, set up your breading station. In one bowl, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons of mayo, and the yellow mustard, lemon juice, and honey until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, onion powder, and pepper. Finally, in a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and cornmeal.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Remove the marinated chicken from the fridge. One by one, dip each tenderloin into the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the panko-cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere well.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, like honey BBQ sauce, or enjoy them on a salad or in a sandwich. For a fun twist, you might also consider trying variations like Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders for a cheesy delight!

Seasonal Twists

• Autumn: Add a pinch of nutmeg to the flour mixture for a warm, seasonal flavor.
• Spring: Mix in some fresh herbs like parsley or dill with the panko for a vibrant touch.
• Summer: Serve with a light and zesty lemon-herb dipping sauce to complement the season.
• Winter: Pair the tenders with a spicy sriracha mayo for a warm kick on those chilly days.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Skipping the marinade: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor and tenderness.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Ensure there’s enough space around each tender for even cooking.
• Not preheating the air fryer: This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.
• Using regular breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a crunch that traditional breadcrumbs cannot match.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, place the cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container, where they can last for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

Common Qs About Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Just slice the chicken breasts into strips to ensure they cook evenly. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, depending on the thickness of the strips.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How can I make these tenders spicier?

To add some heat, you can incorporate cayenne pepper or chili powder into the flour mixture. Additionally, serving with a spicy dipping sauce can kick things up a notch!

Can I make these tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a few hours. Just be sure to cook them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy!

Don’t Miss These

• Pickle Brined Chicken Tenders for a tangy twist.
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders for a cheesy delight.

In Closing

With this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe, you can enjoy a healthier version of a classic favorite without compromising on taste or texture. Perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or just a tasty meal any day of the week, these tenders are sure to become a staple in your home. Enjoy the crispy goodness, and don’t forget to get creative with your dips and sauces!