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In recent years, air fryers have surged in popularity, revolutionizing the way we approach home cooking. These innovative kitchen appliances allow us to achieve crispy results similar to traditional frying methods, but with significantly less oil, making them a favorite among health-conscious cooks. One dish that has captured the hearts of families everywhere is chicken tenders. These tender, juicy strips of chicken are not only a staple in many households but also a versatile meal option that can be enjoyed in numerous ways – from dipping in sauces to serving alongside salads or as part of a larger feast.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Discover the joy of crispy air fryer chicken tenders with this delicious recipe! Air frying offers the perfect crunch without the extra oil, keeping your tenders juicy and full of flavor. This straightforward guide covers everything from marinating in buttermilk to achieving that golden-brown finish using panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for busy nights, these versatile tenders are great for dipping, pairing with salads, or serving at gatherings. Try this healthier, family-friendly dish today!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika for a deeper flavor

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

Cooking spray or olive oil spray for frying

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken strips with the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything until the chicken is well coated in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator to marinate for at least 30 minutes. For optimal flavor, marinating overnight is recommended.

    Prepare the Breading Station: Set up your breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In the third bowl, spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly.

      Bread the Chicken: Once marinated, take the chicken strips out of the refrigerator. Begin by dredging each strip in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll each strip in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a generous coating for maximum crispiness.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken tenders start to cook evenly as soon as they are placed inside.

          Arrange the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Carefully arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they do not overlap. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to work in batches.

            Air Fry the Tenders: Lightly spray the tops of the breaded chicken tenders with olive oil spray for an extra golden finish. Cook the chicken in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when done.

              Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing, for a delightful tasting experience.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings

                  Optional: For an extra flair, serve the chicken tenders on a rustic wooden board garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for added zest! Enjoy your crispy creation!