Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders have long been a beloved comfort food across the globe, cherished for their tender texture and versatile flavor. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner, a party platter, or a snack, chicken tenders resonate with both kids and adults alike. Their appeal lies not only in their delicious taste but also in their adaptability to various seasonings and dips, making them a go-to option for countless culinary occasions.

Discover the joy of making crispy air fryer chicken tenders, a healthier twist on a classic favorite. This recipe balances tender, juicy chicken with a crunchy panko coating, all while using minimal oil for a guilt-free indulgence. Marinated in buttermilk and seasoned to perfection, these tenders cook quickly and easily in an air fryer, making them ideal for meals, snacks, or gatherings. Pair them with delicious dipping sauces and sides for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

1 pound chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for spice)

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenders, making sure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.

Prepare the Coatings: In a shallow dish, mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In another dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, dried thyme, and dried oregano.

Coat the Chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender first in the flour mixture, shaking off excess, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally coat it thoroughly with the panko mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

Arrange in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to work in batches depending on your air fryer size.

Air Fry the Tenders: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray or olive oil. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Serve: Once cooked, remove chicken tenders from the air fryer, and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, like honey mustard or ranch.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings