Looking for a quick yet delicious meal? These air fryer chicken tenders are the answer! With a crispy outer layer and juicy chicken inside, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or a fun family dinner. Plus, they’re healthier than traditional fried tenders, making them a guilt-free indulgence. Read on to learn how to whip up this delightful dish in your air fryer!
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 12-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (about 4 tenders): Calories: 300, Protein: 25g, Carbohydrates: 30g, Fat: 10g. This is based on a serving size of 4 tenders.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, soak chicken strips in buttermilk for about 10 minutes.
3. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off.
5. Dredge each chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring an even coating.
6. Place the coated chicken strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
7. Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
8. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
9. Check for doneness; internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
10. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar for a similar effect. Also, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
Serving and Pairings
These air fryer chicken tenders pair beautifully with a side of coleslaw, fries, or a fresh garden salad. Don’t forget to serve them with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce!
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat directly from frozen.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking.
– Not preheating the air fryer can result in soggy tenders.
– Skipping the cooking spray may yield less crispy results.
Helpful Tips
– Use fresh chicken for the best flavor.
– Let the chicken sit in the buttermilk longer for more tenderness.
– Experiment with different spices for unique flavors.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but adjust the cooking time. They may need an additional 5-7 minutes to cook through.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and coat it beforehand. Store it in the fridge and air fry it just before serving.
What dipping sauces go well with chicken tenders?
Popular dipping sauces include honey mustard, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, and buffalo sauce.
Are air fryer chicken tenders healthy?
Yes, they are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders, as they use less oil and have lower calories.
Conclusion
These air fryer chicken tenders are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly delicious and versatile. Perfect for any occasion, they bring a crispy texture and rich flavor that will satisfy your cravings. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and sauces for a delightful meal!
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Soak chicken strips in buttermilk for about 10 minutes.
- Mix breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Remove chicken from the buttermilk and let excess drip off.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray.
- Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Check for doneness; internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
