Crispy and Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

🍗 Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

✅ Ingredients (Serves 3–4):

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)

• 1 cup buttermilk (or plain yogurt or milk with 1 tsp lemon juice)

• 1 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• 1/2 tsp onion powder

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

• Olive oil spray

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken

• Soak chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours).
  This tenderizes and adds flavor.

2. Prepare the Breading Stations

• In one bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and onion powder.

• In another bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

3. Bread the Tenders

• Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off.

• Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, then back into the buttermilk, and finally coat well with panko breadcrumbs.

4. Preheat Air Fryer

• Preheat to 400°F (204°C) for 3 minutes.

5. Air Fry

• Spray the air fryer basket lightly with oil.

• Place chicken tenders in a single layer without overcrowding.

• Spray tops lightly with olive oil spray.

• Cook at 400°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).

🍴 Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or your favorite dip.

• Pair with fries, salad, or steamed veggies.

🧊 Storage:

• Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 5 minutes to re-crisp.