Satisfy your cravings with these golden, crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders! Perfectly seasoned and easy to make, these tenders are a healthier take on a classic favorite. Whether for a family dinner or a quick snack, these tenders will impress everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this simple yet delicious recipe that will have you reaching for seconds!
Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 12-15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 4 tenders) contains approximately 250 calories, 12g fat, 20g protein, and 30g carbohydrates. This is based on a single serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
3. In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off excess.
6. Dip the floured tender back into the buttermilk.
7. Coat the tender with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
8. Repeat for all tenders and arrange in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
9. Spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray.
10. Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute buttermilk with regular milk mixed with a little vinegar for a similar effect. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also an excellent alternative for a gluten-free option.
Serving and Pairings
These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with dipping sauces like BBQ or honey mustard. Serve with a side of fresh salad or crispy fries for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crispiness. They can be frozen for up to a month, just ensure they are fully cooled before freezing.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not preheating the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overcrowding the basket will prevent crispiness.
- Skipping the marination can result in dry tenders.
- Not using cooking spray might lead to sticking.
- Flipping too early can cause the coating to come off.
Helpful Tips
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs.
- Let the tenders rest a few minutes before serving.
- Experiment with different spices for unique flavors.
- Try adding grated Parmesan to the breadcrumb mixture.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer?
Yes, you can cook frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes until fully cooked.
How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?
Chicken tenders are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). A meat thermometer can help ensure they are cooked through.
Can I make these tenders spicy?
Absolutely! Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the buttermilk marinade for a spicy kick.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat leftovers is in the air fryer to maintain their crunch. Set it to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.
Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
You can prepare the tenders and coat them ahead of time. Store them in the fridge before air frying them when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a fantastic way to enjoy a beloved dish without the guilt of traditional frying. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them with your favorite sides and dips for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In another bowl, mix breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip the floured tender back into the buttermilk.
- Coat the tender with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.