Description
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are the ultimate guilt-free comfort food — crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in under 30 minutes! These healthier tenders are coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and air-fried to golden perfection without the mess of deep frying. Perfect for family dinners, party platters, or lunchbox meals, they’re a kid-friendly, crowd-pleasing classic you’ll make again and again.
Ingredients
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1–1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breasts)
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2 eggs, beaten
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1/2 cup all-purpose flour
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1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (or plain breadcrumbs)
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1 tsp garlic powder
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1 tsp onion powder
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1 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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Cooking spray or oil mist
Instructions
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Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season lightly with salt and pepper.
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Set up breading station:
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Bowl 1: flour
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Bowl 2: beaten eggs
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Bowl 3: breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
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Dredge each chicken tender in flour, dip into egg, then coat thoroughly in seasoned breadcrumbs. Press gently to adhere.
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Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
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Arrange tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil.
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Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
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Let cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Notes
Don’t overcrowd the basket — cook in batches for best crispiness.
Panko breadcrumbs give the crispiest texture.
For extra juiciness, marinate chicken in buttermilk before breading.
Add cayenne or hot sauce for a spicy version.
Parmesan can be added to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, healthy chicken tenders, chicken strips, panko chicken, air fryer dinner