Description
These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are crispy, juicy, and flavorful—with a golden breadcrumb coating made without deep frying. Perfect for a quick, kid-friendly meal or tasty appetizer.
Ingredients
1.5–2 lb chicken tenderloins (12–16 pieces)
¾ cup all-purpose flour
½ tsp kosher salt
1 oz ranch seasoning packet (optional)
1 egg
1–2 tsp hot sauce (optional)
¾ cup milk + 1½ tsp vinegar (buttermilk mix)
2½ cups plain breadcrumbs
2½ Tbsp seasoning mix (e.g., garlic herb or lemon pepper)
Avocado oil spray
Instructions
- Prep dredging stations: Mix flour, salt, and optional ranch seasoning. Combine milk, vinegar—wait 5 minutes—then whisk in egg and optional hot sauce. Stir breadcrumbs with seasoning.
- Flatten tenders: Gently press each tender with a knife’s flat side for even cooking.
- Bread: Dredge in flour mix → buttermilk mix → breadcrumb mix, pressing to adhere.
- Arrange in basket: Layer tenders in air fryer in a single layer, spray tops with avocado oil.
- Cook: Air fry at 400 °F for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked to 165–175 °F.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Flattening ensures even cooking and better crust.
- Add seasonings like cayenne or garlic powder to breadcrumbs for a twist.
- Use panko for extra crunch or gluten-free coatings to suit dietary needs.
- Spray oil lightly—too much can cause sogginess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes per batch
- Category: Main Dish / Appetizer
- Method: Air Fry
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tenders
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
