Best 2 Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipes

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Crispy, tender, and juicy chicken tenders made in an air fryer are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. They are coated in a flavorful breading and cooked to perfection in a fraction of the time it takes to fry them. This recipe uses simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand, and it's easy to follow, making it perfect for busy weeknight meals.

This article provides two variations of air fryer chicken tenders: classic and Buffalo. The classic chicken tenders are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, while the Buffalo chicken tenders are coated in a spicy Buffalo sauce. Both variations are delicious and sure to please everyone at the table.

These air fryer chicken tenders are not only delicious but also healthier than traditional fried chicken tenders. They are cooked in hot air instead of oil, which reduces the fat and calories. Plus, they're a great source of protein and can be served with a variety of healthy sides, such as roasted vegetables or a salad.

Check out the recipes below so you can choose the best recipe for yourself!

AIR-FRYER CHICKEN TENDERS



Air-Fryer Chicken Tenders image

I added all of the components of a loaded baked potato-cheddar, potato, bacon, sour cream and chives-to my air-fryer chicken tenders recipe. Every kid will love this quick and easy dish! -Cyndy Gerken, Naples, Florida

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories     Dinner

Time 40m

Yield 4 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 10

1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
1/2 cup potato sticks, crushed
1/2 cup crushed cheese crackers
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 bacon strips, cooked and crumbled
2 teaspoons minced fresh chives
1/4 cup butter, melted
1 tablespoon sour cream
1 pound chicken tenderloins
Additional sour cream and chives

Steps:

  • Preheat air fryer to 400°. In a shallow bowl, combine the first 6 ingredients. In another shallow bowl, whisk butter and sour cream. Dip chicken in butter mixture, then in crumb mixture, patting to help coating adhere., In batches, arrange chicken in a single layer on greased tray in air-fryer basket; spritz with cooking spray. Cook until coating is golden brown and chicken is no longer pink, 7-8 minutes on each side. Serve with additional sour cream and chives.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 256 calories, Fat 14g fat (7g saturated fat), Cholesterol 84mg cholesterol, Sodium 267mg sodium, Carbohydrate 6g carbohydrate (0 sugars, Fiber 0 fiber), Protein 29g protein.

AIR FRYER CHICKEN TENDERS



Air Fryer Chicken Tenders image

This weeknight supper is a kid-friendly and healthier alternative to your run-of-the-mill chicken fingers.

Provided by Food Network Kitchen

Categories     main-dish

Time 1h45m

Yield about 8 pieces

Number Of Ingredients 12

3/4 cup buttermilk
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 pound chicken tenders
1 1/2 cups panko
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1 tablespoon olive oil
Kosher salt
1/4 cup mayonnaise
3 tablespoons yellow mustard
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Steps:

  • For the chicken: Combine the buttermilk, Worcestershire sauce and paprika in a resealable plastic bag. Add the chicken, making sure it is completely coated. Seal the bag and place in a bowl. Let marinate at room temperature for 1 hour.
  • Meanwhile, stir together the panko with the Parmesan, olive oil and 1 teaspoon salt in a shallow baking dish or pie plate.
  • For the dipping sauce: Stir together the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, honey and Dijon in a small bowl and set aside.
  • Preheat a 3.5-quart air fryer to 390 degrees F. Remove 1 piece of chicken at a time from the bag, shaking off excess buttermilk. Place in the panko and press gently with your hands to adhere the panko evenly. Gently shake to remove the excess and place in the air fryer basket. Repeat with enough chicken to fill the basket (about 4 pieces) and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7 minutes on each side. Repeat with the remaining chicken and serve warm with the dipping sauce.

Tips:

  • To ensure crispy chicken tenders, pat them dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking.
  • Use a light coating of oil to prevent the chicken from sticking to the air fryer basket.
  • Preheat the air fryer to the desired temperature for at least 5 minutes before adding the chicken tenders.
  • Cook the chicken tenders in a single layer to promote even cooking.
  • Flip the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure they cook evenly.
  • Check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders with a meat thermometer to ensure they have reached a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Conclusion:

Using an air fryer to cook chicken tenders is a healthier and more convenient alternative to traditional frying methods. With minimal oil and less mess, you can enjoy crispy and flavorful chicken tenders that are perfect for a quick and easy meal. By following the tips and recipe provided in this article, you can achieve perfectly cooked chicken tenders every time.

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