Description
Crispy and juicy air fryer chicken tenders made with a flavorful breadcrumb coating and very little oil. This quick and easy recipe delivers a golden crunchy exterior and tender inside without deep frying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders
- 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- 1 cup (100 g) breadcrumbs or panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better.
- Prepare three bowls for breading. Place the flour in the first bowl.
- In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
- In the third bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, onion powder, and oregano.
- Dip each chicken tender into the flour, coating lightly.
- Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
- Coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the crumbs stick well.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray and place the chicken tenders in a single layer without overlapping.
- Lightly spray the tops with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through cooking.
- Remove when the tenders are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- Add grated parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- For a spicy version, mix cayenne pepper or chili powder with the seasoning.
- Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative.
- Crushed cornflakes can replace breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy coating.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes to keep them crispy.
- Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soft.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 620 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 26 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg
