Go Back

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders No Breading – Crispy & Juicy

Air fryer chicken tenders need about 8–10 minutes at 400°F.Olive oil and seasonings create a flavorful exterior without breading.Cook until the center reaches 165°F for juicy, tender chicken.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American-inspired

Ingredients
  

  • - 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken tenderloins
  • - 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • - 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • - 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
  • - 1 teaspoon paprika
  • - 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • - 1 teaspoon sea salt
  • - 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • - Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Pat the chicken tenderloins thoroughly dry with paper towels to remove excess surface moisture.
  • Place the chicken tenders in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss until evenly coated.
  • In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper.
  • Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken. Toss well until every tender is evenly coated with the spices.
  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  • Lightly grease the air fryer basket if necessary. Arrange the Air Fryer Chicken Tenders No Breading in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece for proper air circulation.
  • Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through cooking. Larger or thicker tenderloins may require a little additional time.
  • Check the thickest piece with an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is safely cooked when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Transfer the chicken to a serving plate, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Chicken breasts can be used instead of tenderloins. Slice them lengthwise into strips of similar thickness so they cook evenly.
For additional brightness, squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the chicken immediately before serving.
These no breading chicken tenders pair well with roasted vegetables, air fryer potatoes, rice, salad, coleslaw, or steamed vegetables.
For dipping, try ranch dressing, garlic yogurt sauce, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a simple lemon-herb yogurt dip.