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Air frying has taken the culinary world by storm, offering a way to enjoy crispy, delicious food without the excess oil associated with traditional frying methods. This cooking technique not only cuts down on calories, but also retains the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients. One popular dish that shines in the air fryer is chicken tenders, which can be a healthier alternative to their deep-fried counterparts.

Golden Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crispy and flavorful chicken tenders cooked in an air fryer.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 0.5 pound chicken breast tenders
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • spray cooking spray
  • optional fresh parsley
  • optional lemon wedges

Instructions
 

  • Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken tenders and buttermilk. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight (for maximum tenderness).
  • Prepare the Breading: In another bowl, mix together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and cayenne pepper, if using.
  • Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and let any excess drip off. First, dredge each tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Next, dip it back into the buttermilk, and then coat it evenly with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes while you finish breading the chicken.
  • Arrange in Air Fryer: Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken tenders in the basket in a single layer, making sure they do not overlap. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
  • Air Fry the Chicken: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray to help them crisp up. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
  • Serve: Once done, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer, sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired, and serve with lemon wedges on the side. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce, like honey mustard or ranch.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight.
Keyword air fryer, chicken, crispy, tenders