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Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

This Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe is the ultimate solution for a quick, delicious weeknight meal that satisfies both kids and adults. In under 30 minutes, you can serve up golden, ultra-crispy chicken strips that rival any deep-fried version without the excess oil.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 414
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 3/4 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/4 teaspoon Adobo all-purpose seasoning optional

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Tongs
  • Whisk
  • Bowls

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Breading Stations: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, plain breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, onion powder, parsley, and Adobo seasoning. Stir well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. In a second bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Place the flour on a separate shallow plate.
    1 large egg, 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs, 3/4 cup plain breadcrumbs, 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder, 3/4 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 3/4 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/4 teaspoon Adobo all-purpose seasoning
  2. Season the Chicken: Take your thawed chicken tenders and lightly season them with a bit of extra salt and pepper to build the first layer of flavor.
    12 chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips), 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  3. The Breading Process: Using the "two-hand method" (one hand for dry ingredients, one for wet), dredge a chicken tender in the flour until coated. Next, dip it into the egg and milk mixture, letting the excess drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated on all sides. Place the breaded tenders on a clean plate.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400 degrees F and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
  5. Arrange and Mist: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place the chicken tenders in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching or crowded. Lightly mist the tops of the chicken with oil.
  6. Air Fry: Cook at 400 degrees F for 10 to 12 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, flip the tenders over and give them another light mist of oil to ensure both sides get crispy.
  7. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Remove with tongs and repeat with the remaining batches.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to prevent soggy spots. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F to maintain crispiness.