If you’re craving crispy, golden chicken tenders without the mess of deep frying, this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe is about to become your new weeknight favorite. They’re crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and made with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day snacks, or a quick lunch the whole family will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 15 minutes, faster than takeout
- Uses way less oil than deep frying, but still super crispy
- Easy cleanup, no messy oil splatters
- Kid-friendly and great for meal prep
- Perfectly pairs with any dipping sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound chicken tenders (or chicken breast sliced into strips)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How To Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick better.
- Dredge each tender in the flour, shaking off the excess.
- Dip into the beaten eggs, letting the extra drip off.
- Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly on all sides.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Arrange the tenders in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap.
- Spray the tops of the tenders lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Air fry for 8 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4 to 6 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.
