How do I know when my Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Extra Crispy) are cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the thickest part of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C).

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

While you can, panko breadcrumbs are highly recommended for achieving that superior extra crispy texture in these chicken tenders.

Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken tenders a few hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator before air frying for a quick meal.

What are some good dipping sauces for this crispy air fryer recipe?

Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, and ketchup are classic choices that pair perfectly with these crispy tenders.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders an easy 5 steps family favorite

Description

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Extra Crispy) are a game-changer for weeknight meals! Achieving that perfect crispy coating without all the oil of traditional frying, these tenders are not only delicious but also a healthier option.

Ingredients

Scale

1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs, beaten
1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons olive oil (or cooking spray)

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Instructions

Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
In another shallow dish, beat the eggs.
In a third shallow dish, place the panko breadcrumbs.
Dip each chicken tender first into the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they adhere.
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray.
Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd. You may need to cook in batches.
Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with olive oil or cooking spray.
Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C).
Repeat with remaining tenders.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

For extra crispiness, ensure you don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
Feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a little kick!
These tenders are delicious served with honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or ketchup.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for a few minutes until warmed through.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 3-4 tenders)
Calories: 340
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 450mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 100mg