Air Fryer Chicken Tenders have taken the culinary world by storm, and for good reason! These crispy delights are not only a hit with kids and adults alike, but they also offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying. I remember the first time I made these tenders for my family. The kids were skeptical at first, but once they took a bite, their faces lit up with joy. The air fryer gives the chicken a golden, crunchy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Plus, using less oil means I can indulge without the guilt. It’s a win-win! Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat, these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients List
1 pound chicken tenderloins: Fresh or thawed, these are the star of the dish.
1 cup buttermilk: This will tenderize the chicken and add flavor. You can make your own by mixing milk with a splash of vinegar.
1 cup all-purpose flour: This forms the crispy coating.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth to the flavor.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste.
1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a subtle smokiness and color.
1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of spice.
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional for those who like a kick.
Cooking spray or olive oil spray: To ensure the tenders crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Preparing Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. Follow these steps to achieve crispy perfection!
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Start by marinating the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the meat and infuses it with flavor. Aim to marinate for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, letting it sit overnight will enhance the taste even more.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In a shallow dish, whisk together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Each spice plays a role: garlic and onion powder add savory notes, while paprika gives a lovely color and subtle smokiness. This mixture will create a flavorful crust.
Step 3: Dredge the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and dredge each tenderloin in the flour mixture. Make sure to coat each piece evenly, shaking off any excess flour. This ensures a crispy exterior once cooked, giving you that satisfying crunch.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating your air fryer is essential for even cooking. Set it to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat up for about 5 minutes. This step helps achieve that golden-brown finish and ensures the chicken cooks through properly.
Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders
Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray them lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and cooked through!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.
Healthier Alternative: Air frying uses significantly less oil than traditional frying, making these chicken tenders a guilt-free option.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of spices and the buttermilk marinade creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will love.
Kid-Friendly: These tenders are a hit with kids, making mealtime enjoyable for the whole family.
Versatile: Serve them as a main dish, in wraps, or as a snack with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders turn out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:
Don’t skip the marinating: The longer you marinate, the more flavorful and tender your chicken will be.
Use a light hand with the flour: Too much flour can lead to a heavy coating. Shake off excess for a lighter crunch.
Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give each tenderloin space to cook evenly and achieve that crispy texture.
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or add your favorites for a unique twist!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one serving of Air Fryer Chicken Tenders:
Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 800mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used.
FAQ Section
Here are some common questions I often hear about Air Fryer Chicken Tenders:
Can I use frozen chicken tenderloins?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating for the best results.
How do I make the chicken tenders extra crispy?
For an extra crispy texture, try double-dipping the chicken. After the first dredge, dip it back into the buttermilk and then coat it again in the flour mixture.
What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
These chicken tenders are delicious with ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. You can even whip up a spicy mayo for a kick!
Can I make these tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and you’re good to go.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
To store your leftover Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
When you’re ready to enjoy them again, preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Arrange the tenders in a single layer and air fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. This method helps maintain their delicious crunch, making them just as enjoyable as when they were freshly made!
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: a crispy and healthier alternative.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound chicken tenderloins
1 cup buttermilk
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
In a bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins and buttermilk. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
In a shallow dish, whisk together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until well combined.
Remove the chicken from the buttermilk marinade, dredge each tenderloin in the flour mixture, and shake off any excess flour.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket and spray lightly with cooking spray.
Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Notes
Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.
