The Air Fryer Chicken Tenders That Will Make You Forget Frying

Why This Recipe Matters Right Now

Normally, I’d say chicken tenders are just a quick fix, but this time? I wanted to crack the secret—how to get that irresistible crunch without turning on the stove or dunking everything in oil. We’re in the middle of dozens of cooking apps and recipes that feel like a blur. But honestly, I needed something real, something that makes me smile mid-bite. The smell when these go in the air fryer—garlic and paprika in the air, that crisp sound, it’s oddly calming. Plus, the fact that I can throw this together and still get the crunch? Okay, it’s practically a new kind of comfort food. No breading mess, no guilt, just that perfect bite—crispy, tender, and gone in a second. It’s not the fancy part of cooking, but sometimes, that’s exactly what I need for today.

Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Tenders

This dish consists of chicken tenders coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, cooked in an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior. The tenders are tender on the inside with a golden-brown, crunchy crust, featuring a appealing appearance and satisfying texture.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 15 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound chicken tenders boneless, skinless
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for coating
• 1 teaspoon paprika adds flavor and color
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder for flavor
• to taste salt and pepper seasoning to preference
• 2 eggs large eggs beaten
• 1 tablespoon olive oil optional, for spray

Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking tongs
• Plate for breading

Method

 

1. Trim any excess fat from the chicken tenders and cut them into uniform strips for even cooking. Place the tenders on a plate and set aside.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute the seasonings evenly.
3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well blended. Prepare a third plate for breading assembly.
4. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated, then transfer to the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to adhere the coating evenly on all sides.
5. Place the coated tenders on a greased or parchment-lined tray, then lightly spray them with olive oil for extra crispness. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
6. Arrange the tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, cooking in batches if necessary. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and crispy, with internal temperature reaching 165°F (74°C).

Notes

For extra flavor, add Parmesan cheese or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Sometimes, I think the best dishes are the simple ones that surprise you. No fuss, no drama, just good, honest food that hits every time. Maybe it’s just me, but when I make these tenders, I feel like I finally cracked the code on something I didn’t even realize I was chasing.