Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs and cooked until perfectly golden.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
- If using chicken breasts, slice them into evenly sized 1-inch strips.
- Place the flour in one shallow bowl.
- Whisk the eggs in a second bowl.
- In a third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat each chicken strip in the flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs until fully coated.
- Press the chicken into the seasoned panko mixture until evenly coated.
- Arrange the coated chicken pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Leave space between each piece to allow proper air circulation.
- Cook the Air Fryer Chicken Tenders for 7–10 minutes, flipping halfway through if needed, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Chicken thighs can be substituted for a juicier result.
- Gluten-free flour and gluten-free panko work well for a gluten-free version.
- Add cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Serve with ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, buffalo sauce, or ketchup.
- Pair with fries, roasted vegetables, salad, mashed potatoes, or mac and cheese.