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Homemade Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders photo

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders ready in the air fryer for a quick family-friendly meal.
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds chicken tenders about 14
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt divided
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/3 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • olive oil spray for coating basket and tops of tenders
  • Greek yogurt ranch dip for serving, optional
  • barbecue sauce for serving, optional

Equipment

  • Paper Towels
  • 2 shallow bowls or pie dish
  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • Air Fryer
  • Olive oil spray
  • Instant-read thermometer

Method
 

  1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and sprinkle with 1/2 teaspoon of the kosher salt.
  2. Beat the eggs in a shallow bowl until blended.
  3. In a second shallow bowl, combine the panko, whole wheat breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, ground black pepper, and the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt.
  4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set nearby to hold coated tenders.
  5. Working a few at a time, dip each tender into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated; shake off excess and place on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (about 200°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
  7. Arrange tenders in a single layer in the basket without touching (cook in batches if needed). Spray the top of the tenders lightly with olive oil spray.
  8. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and an instant-read thermometer registers at least 165°F (74°C).
  9. Repeat with remaining tenders, keeping finished pieces warm in a 250°F (120°C) oven if desired. Serve hot with Greek yogurt ranch dip or barbecue sauce.

Notes

  • Store cooked tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat leftovers in the oven, air fryer, or microwave.
  • To freeze, freeze tenders in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.