Are you looking for a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders? This air fryer chicken tenders recipe is your answer! With a crispy exterior and juicy interior, these tenders are easy to prepare and require minimal oil. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a party snack, they are sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– Cooking spray
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 4 tenders) contains approximately:
– Calories: 250
– Protein: 28g
– Fat: 6g
– Carbohydrates: 24g
– Fiber: 1g
This nutritional value is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Start by marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavor and moisture.
2. In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
4. Remove chicken from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
5. Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coating.
6. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
7. Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
8. Spray the tops of the tenders lightly with cooking spray to encourage browning.
9. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
10. Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute buttermilk with yogurt or a dairy-free milk alternative for a lighter option. For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of all-purpose flour.
Serving and Pairings
Air fryer chicken tenders pair beautifully with a variety of sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. Serve alongside a fresh salad or crispy fries for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes for best results. Freezing is also possible; just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not marinating long enough, which can lead to dry tenders.
- Overcrowding the air fryer basket, preventing even cooking.
- Skipping the cooking spray, which may result in sticking.
- Not preheating the air fryer, affecting cooking time and texture.
- Forgetting to flip the tenders halfway through cooking.
Helpful Tips
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure tenders reach 165°F (75°C).
- Experiment with different seasonings to customize flavors.
- Let the tenders rest before serving for juicier results.
- Consider using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How do I make the chicken tenders extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, double-dip the tenders in buttermilk and then in the flour mixture before air frying. Additionally, using panko breadcrumbs can enhance crunchiness.
What sauces go well with chicken tenders?
Chicken tenders pair excellently with sauces like ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tenders ahead of time and refrigerate them before cooking. Just remember to cook them fresh when ready to serve for the best texture.
Are these tenders healthy?
Yes, air fryer chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried tenders, requiring less oil while still delivering delicious flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Air fryer chicken tenders are a fantastic option for a quick, healthy meal that’s full of flavor. Whether you enjoy them on their own or with your favorite dipping sauces, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy your crispy, juicy tenders without the guilt!
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off.
- Dredge each tender in the seasoned flour mixture.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
- Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
- Spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Remove from the air fryer and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
