Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Learn how to make crispy, juicy chicken tenders in your air fryer! This quick and easy recipe delivers golden, crunchy coating and tender chicken in just 12 minutes. Perfect family-friendly meal that's healthier than deep-frying.

Prep

15 mins

Cook

12 mins

Serve

Kcal

265

Carbs: 18g, Protein: 32g, Fat: 8g

265

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">600g chicken breast tenderloins (or chicken breast cut into strips)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g plain flour (or gluten-free flour blend)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">100g panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">50g grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 large eggs</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">2 tbsp buttermilk (or regular milk)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp garlic powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp onion powder</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp paprika</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp dried oregano</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp salt</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/2 tsp black pepper</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for heat)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">Cooking spray or 1 tbsp olive oil</li></ul>

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Right, let's get our chicken ready first. Pat those tenderloins completely dry with kitchen paper - this is crucial for getting that crispy coating to stick properly. If you're using chicken breast instead of tenderloins, slice them into finger-sized strips about 2cm thick. Season the chicken lightly with salt and pepper, then set aside for a moment.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Now we're setting up our breading station, which is key to success here. Get three shallow bowls lined up like a production line. In the first bowl, combine the flour with half the garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk until smooth - this creates a lovely binding mixture. In the third bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the Parmesan cheese, remaining garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, and cayenne if you're using it.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>Here's where the magic happens - the breading process. Take each piece of chicken and dredge it thoroughly in the seasoned flour, making sure every surface is coated. Give it a gentle shake to remove excess flour, then dip it into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off for about 3 seconds. Finally, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, really pushing those crumbs onto the chicken to create that beautiful coating. Place each coated tender on a clean plate and repeat with all pieces.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>Preheat your air fryer to 200°C for about 3 minutes - this ensures we get that immediate sizzle when the chicken hits the basket. While it's heating, give your coated tenders a light spray with cooking spray or brush them gently with olive oil. This helps achieve that gorgeous golden color we're after.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Carefully arrange the chicken tenders in your air fryer basket in a single layer - don't overcrowd them as they need space for the hot air to circulate properly. Depending on your air fryer size, you might need to cook in batches. Cook for 6 minutes at 200°C without disturbing them.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>After 6 minutes, carefully flip each tender using tongs - you should see a lovely golden color developing. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 74°C when checked with a meat thermometer. The coating should be deep golden brown and crispy to the touch.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Remove the tenders and let them rest on a wire cooling rack for 2-3 minutes - this helps maintain the crispiness while allowing the juices to redistribute. Serve immediately while they're at their crispiest peak, alongside your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy mayo.</li></ol>

FAQ for

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

What temperature should I cook chicken tenders in the air fryer for best results?

Cook chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for optimal crispiness. This high temperature creates the perfect golden crust while keeping the inside juicy and tender in just 12 minutes total cooking time.

How do I know when air fryer chicken tenders are fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The coating should be deep golden brown and crispy to touch, with no pink visible when cut open.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer without thawing?

It's best to thaw chicken tenders completely before breading and air frying. Frozen tenders won't hold coating well and may cook unevenly, resulting in soggy breading and tough meat.

What's the secret to extra crispy air fryer chicken coating?

The key is using panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, pressing the coating firmly onto the chicken, and lightly spraying with oil before cooking. Don't skip the flour-egg-breadcrumb sequence!

Why do my chicken tenders turn out dry in the air fryer?

Overcooking is the main culprit. Stick to 12 minutes total at 400°F, flip once at 6 minutes, and use a meat thermometer. Pat chicken dry before breading but don't skip the buttermilk egg wash.

The calorie count is an approximation and can vary based on exact measurements and specific ingredients used. Always consult nutritional information if strict adherence to calorie counts is required. This recipe is inspired by the flavours of this restaurant's dishes and has been independently developed for home cooking. It is not an exact match to the proprietary recipe used by the restaurant. This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the restaurant.

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Serve immediately while they're at their crispiest peak, alongside your favorite dipping sauces." } ], "aggregateRating": { "@type": "AggregateRating", "ratingValue": "5", "ratingCount": "147" }, "review": [ { "@type": "Review", "author": "Maria Rodriguez", "datePublished": "2025-09-02", "reviewBody": "These chicken tenders are absolutely perfect! So crispy on the outside and juicy inside. My kids ask for them every week now!", "name": "Crispiest tenders without deep frying!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Ahmed Hassan", "datePublished": "2025-09-05", "reviewBody": "Amazing recipe! The coating stays crispy even after sitting for a while. Much healthier than takeaway and tastes better too.", "name": "Better than any takeaway version!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Priya Patel", "datePublished": "2025-09-10", "reviewBody": "Perfect for meal prep! I make a big batch on Sunday and reheat throughout the week. The seasoning blend is spot on.", "name": "Meal prep winner for busy weeknights!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Lars Andersson", "datePublished": "2025-09-15", "reviewBody": "Incredibly easy to follow recipe. Ready in just 12 minutes and tastes like restaurant quality. Will definitely make again!", "name": "Restaurant quality in my kitchen!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } }, { "@type": "Review", "author": "Sarah O'Connor", "datePublished": "2025-10-20", "reviewBody": "The kids absolutely loved these! Golden and crispy outside, tender and juicy inside. No more frozen chicken tenders for us!", "name": "Kids absolutely loved these beauties!", "reviewRating": { "@type": "Rating", "ratingValue": "5" } } ] }


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August 26, 2025

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Learn how to make crispy, juicy chicken tenders in your air fryer! This quick and easy recipe delivers golden, crunchy coating and tender chicken in just 12 minutes. Perfect family-friendly meal that's healthier than deep-frying.

Prep

Cook

Serve

Kcal

Carbs: 18g, Protein: 32g, Fat: 8g

Ingredients

Directions

What temperature should I cook chicken tenders in the air fryer for best results?

How do I know when air fryer chicken tenders are fully cooked?

Can I use frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer without thawing?

What's the secret to extra crispy air fryer chicken coating?

Why do my chicken tenders turn out dry in the air fryer?