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Ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Breaded & No Breading Options)

Close-up of perfectly cooked air fryer chicken tenders, showing the crispy golden breading and juicy white interior.
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Make the best air fryer chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside and juicy inside. This recipe provides clear steps for both a classic breaded version and a quick, healthy no breading option, perfect for fast weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil spray
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • For Breaded Option:
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken tenders completely dry using paper towels. This step is key for crispiness.
  2. Season the chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the dry tenders with 1 tablespoon of oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  3. Choose your method: Decide if you want breaded or no breading tenders.
  4. For No Breading Tenders: Place the seasoned tenders directly into the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
  5. For Breaded Tenders: Set up a dredging station: one shallow dish with flour, one with the beaten egg, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with cayenne pepper (if using). Dip each tender first in flour (shake off excess), then egg (let excess drip off), and finally press firmly into the panko mixture to coat completely.
  6. Air Fry: Place the coated or seasoned tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, which prevents crisping.
  7. Cook: Air fry at 380°F (195°C) for 10 minutes. Flip the tenders. Continue cooking for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is golden brown and crunchy.
  8. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  • For the crispiest results, preheat your air fryer to 380°F (195°C) for 5 minutes before adding the chicken.
  • If you are making the breaded version and want an extra crunchy coating, lightly spray the breaded tenders with oil spray before the first cook cycle.
  • For a gluten free air fryer chicken option, substitute the flour with almond flour and the panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • This recipe works well for meal prep; cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pureplatepath.com/air-fryer-chicken-tenders/