Air fryer chicken tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional)

1. Marinate: If you have time, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 1 hour or overnight in the refrigerator. The buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and adds flavor. Before breading, let the chicken come to room temperature for about 20 minutes and drain off excess buttermilk.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Beat Eggs: In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs.
3. Prepare Breadcrumbs: Place the breadcrumbs or panko in a third shallow dish.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Dredge in Flour: Coat each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
2. Dip in Egg: Dip the floured chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
3. Coat in Breadcrumbs: Finally, coat the chicken tender in breadcrumbs or panko, pressing gently to adhere.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
2. Arrange Chicken Tenders: Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or lightly brush with oil. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not touching. Work in batches if necessary.
3. Cook: Spray the tops of the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray or olive oil. Air fry for 7-8 minutes, then flip the tenders, spray the other side lightly, and continue to air fry for another 7-8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the exterior is golden and crispy.
4. Check Doneness: Ensure the chicken tenders are fully cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) with a meat thermometer.

Step 5: Serve

1. Rest: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking.
2. Serve: Serve your crispy air fryer chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders:

• Do Not Overcrowd: Cook in batches if necessary to ensure the air can circulate freely around each tender, resulting in an even, crispy coating.
• Shake or Flip Halfway Through: This ensures even cooking and browning on all sides.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on the size of your chicken tenders and the specific model of your air fryer, cooking times may vary. Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested cooking time ends.

Enjoy your delicious, crispy air fryer chicken tenders with your favorite sides for a quick, satisfying meal.