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    Home » Recipes » Air Fryer

    29 Best Air Fryer Chicken Tender Recipes

    By: Jane · Updated: 16 Sep, '23 · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

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    29 best air fryer chicken tender recipes pin

    Air fryers have revolutionized the world of fried chicken, allowing everyone to indulge in their favorite crispy treats without the guilt.

    29 best air fryer chicken tender recipes facebook

    You can say bye to the days when succumbing to the allure of chicken tenders meant a heavy dose of sodium and carbohydrates.

    Now, with an air fryer chicken tenders recipe, one can enjoy a flavorful, crispy exterior that tastes just as decadent as traditional fried chicken, but with a fraction of the calories and fats. The added benefit? A significant reduction in prep time.

    For those who are health-conscious, the air fryer doesn't just offer reduced sodium; it also ensures that the chicken retains more of its natural fiber content, making it a nutritious choice.

    Whether you're craving the spicy kick of buffalo sauce or the classic taste of golden-brown chicken, these 29 air fryer chicken tender recipes will have something to delight every palate.

    Contents
    • Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
    • Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
    • Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Unbreaded)
    • No Breading Chicken Tenders
    • Air Fryer Chicken Breasts With Herbs & Spices
    • Sweet & Savory Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
    • Air Fryer Chicken Tenders With Seasoned Breadcrumbs & Panko
    • Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins With Italian Seasoning
    • 8-Minute Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins
    • Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
    • Air Fryer Chicken Katsu
    • Best Damn Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken Tenders
    • Crumbed Chicken Tenderloins
    • Air Fryer Chicken Tenders With Panko Crumbs
    • Air Fryer Chicken Katsu With Tonkatsu Sauce
    • Air Fryer Char Siu Chicken
    • Copycat Popeye's Chicken Strips
    • Teriyaki Chicken Tenders In Air Fryer
    • Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken Tenders
    • Chicken Goujons
    • Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken
    • Million Dollar Chicken Bake
    • Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets
    • Easy Air Fryer Chicken Katsu
    • Air Fryer Chicken Strips With Cholula
    • Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Tenders
    • Air Fryer Chicken Tenders With Buttermilk
    • Simple Pancake Batter Chicken Tenders
    • Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
    • 📋 Recipe
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • 💬 Comments

    Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Extra crispy air fryer chicken tenders
    Image source: Delicious Little Bites

    This dish combines classic spices with all-purpose flour to provide a delightful crunch. Perfectly paired with honey mustard or ranch, it promises a bite of crispness in every mouthful.

    Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Breaded air fryer chicken tenders
    Image source: Simply Home Cooked

    Featuring a unique chicken marinade, this recipe offers a harmonious blend of mayo, Dijon, and parmesan. Ideal for a weekend meal with sweet potato fries or a simple salad.

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Unbreaded)

    Air fryer chicken tenders
    Image source: Air Fryer Eats!

    A simple recipe focusing on raw chicken tenderloins enhanced with olive oil and garlic powder. These are wonderful alongside a bowl of steamed potatoes or your favorite dipping sauce.

    No Breading Chicken Tenders

    No breading chicken tenders
    Image source: Whole Lotta Yum

    The homemade chicken tenders rub mix in this recipe ensures a burst of flavors with every bite. Great for those on a low-carb or keto diet, these pair well with grilled veggies.

    Air Fryer Chicken Breasts With Herbs & Spices

    Air fryer chicken breasts with herbs & spices
    Image source: Platings + Pairings

    This dish boasts tender chicken breasts, marinated in a blend of aromatic herbs and spices. It's the perfect entrée for a flavorful mid-week dinner or a protein-packed lunch.

    Sweet & Savory Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Sweet & savory air fryer chicken tenders
    Image source: Air Fryer Eats!

    These chicken tenders strike a beautiful balance between sweet and savory notes. Whether you're hosting a party or serving a weekend treat, they'll surely be a hit!

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders With Seasoned Breadcrumbs & Panko

    Air fryer chicken tenders with seasoned breadcrumbs & panko
    Image source: Skinnytaste

    This recipe transforms ordinary chicken tenders into a crispy delight using seasoned breadcrumbs and panko. Ideal for a quick snack, they pair perfectly with your favorite dipping sauces.

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins With Italian Seasoning

    Air fryer chicken tenderloins with italian seasoning
    Image source: The Big Man's World

    With an infusion of Italian herbs, these chicken tenderloins are an ode to classic Italian flavors. Consider serving with spaghetti aglio e olio for a delightful dinner.

    8-Minute Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins

    8-minute air fryer chicken tenderloins
    Image source: Key To My Lime

    Efficiency meets taste in this recipe. Paired with a fresh green salad or french fries, it's a meal the whole family will adore.

    Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Crispy parmesan air fryer chicken tenders
    Image source: The Recipe Critic

    Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs combine to give this dish its unique flavor and crunch. Best enjoyed with a side of green beans or garlic-infused mashed potatoes.

    Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

    Air fryer chicken katsu
    Image source: Everyday Family Cooking

    This dish showcases crispy chicken coated in golden panko breadcrumbs, delivering a classic Japanese favorite. Ideal for quick dinners, it pairs swimmingly with a tangy dipping sauce and steamed rice.

    Best Damn Air Fryer Buttermilk Chicken Tenders

    Best damn air fryer buttermilk chicken tenders
    Image source: Recipe Teacher

    Do you love a tangy twist? These chicken tenders are marinated in buttermilk and paprika before being breaded and air-fried. They pair wonderfully with a side of coleslaw or as a protein boost for salads.

    Crumbed Chicken Tenderloins

    Crumbed chicken tenderloins
    Image source: Allrecipes

    These tenderloins are given a simple breadcrumb coating and fried in vegetable oil for a minimalistic yet tasty treat. They are a go-to for busy nights when kids demand something delicious and quick.

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders With Panko Crumbs

    Air fryer chicken tenders with panko crumbs
    Image source: Mommy's Fabulous Finds

    The harmony of panko crumbs and seasonings give these chicken tenders a delightful crunch. Consider serving them with a dipping sauce or atop a fresh garden salad for added nutrition.

    Air Fryer Chicken Katsu With Tonkatsu Sauce

    Air fryer chicken katsu with tonkatsu sauce
    Image source: Craving Home Cooked

    This recipe presents chicken breasts breaded in panko, served with a tangy tonkatsu sauce. Accompanied by steamed rice and shredded cabbage, it's an enticing dish that brings out authentic flavors.

    Air Fryer Char Siu Chicken

    Air fryer char siu chicken
    Image source: Christie at Home

    The allure of this dish lies in its marinade: red fermented bean curd and Shaoxing wine enhance the chicken thighs, yielding a rich flavor. Great for those looking to venture beyond traditional cooking chicken recipes.

    Copycat Popeye's Chicken Strips

    Copycat popeye's chicken strips
    Image source: Restless Chipotle

    If you’re in the mood for something spicy, these chicken strips seasoned with chipotle chile powder and paprika are a top choice. Remember to reheat any leftovers for a crunchy treat the next day.

    Teriyaki Chicken Tenders In Air Fryer

    Teriyaki chicken tenders in air fryer
    Image source: Enjoy Clean Eating

    These chicken tenders are infused with the sweetness of mirin and light brown sugar, complemented by sesame oil and ginger. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion for an authentic teriyaki experience.

    Air Fryer Cornflake Chicken Tenders

    Air fryer cornflake chicken tenders
    Image source: The TipToe Fairy

    Combining the crunchiness of cornflakes with seasonings, this dish is an innovative twist on traditional chicken tenders. With fewer calories than their fried counterparts, they're a healthier option for chicken wing enthusiasts.

    Chicken Goujons

    Chicken goujons
    Image source: Supergolden Bakes

    These mini chicken filets are coated in a blend of panko breadcrumbs and cornflakes, providing a delightful crunch. Perfect for a fun meal with kids or when hosting a game night.

    Air Fryer General Tso’s Chicken

    Air fryer general tso’s chicken
    Image source: Father And Us

    This dish transforms chicken breast into a tantalizing treat using General Tso's sauce and a crispy coating. Paired with green onion and almonds, it offers a perfect balance of texture and flavor.

    Million Dollar Chicken Bake

    Million dollar chicken bake
    Image source: A Reinvented Mom

    Cream cheese and mayonnaise elevate this chicken breast dish, which also boasts a kick of flavor from bacon and green onions. An enticing main for those seeking rich, creamy delights.

    Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Cutlets

    Crispy air fryer chicken cutlets
    Image source: Easy Dinner Ideas

    These chicken cutlets get their burst of flavor from Italian seasoning and garlic powder. After a dip in mayonnaise and breadcrumbs, they turn into a crispy delicacy that's hard to resist.

    Easy Air Fryer Chicken Katsu

    Easy air fryer chicken katsu
    Image source: Christie at Home

    Coated in cornstarch and panko breadcrumbs, this chicken dish offers a crispy, golden exterior. With the mild flavor of avocado oil, it's an exquisite main dish for any dining occasion.

    Air Fryer Chicken Strips With Cholula

    Air fryer chicken strips with cholula
    Image source: The Salted Pepper

    Do you have a penchant for spicy dishes? These chicken strips, livened up with Cholula hot sauce, provide a fiery kick. Ideal for those evenings when you crave a spicy protein-packed meal.

    Air Fryer Hot Honey Chicken Tenders

    Air fryer hot honey chicken tenders
    Image source: Supergolden Bakes

    Cornflakes and spices come together to create a crunchy coating, while the hot honey sauce adds a delightful sweet and spicy kick. A must-try for those who relish a balance of flavors.

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders With Buttermilk

    Air fryer chicken tenders with buttermilk
    Image source: Plated Cravings

    Marinated in buttermilk and seasoned with paprika and garlic, these chicken tenders boast a rich flavor profile. They're a great option for those wanting a classic air-fried dish without the cholesterol of traditional frying.

    Simple Pancake Batter Chicken Tenders

    Simple pancake batter chicken tenders
    Image source: The Protein Chef

    The unique blend of pancake mix and breadcrumbs gives these tenders an intriguing flavor. A sprinkle of Cajun seasoning completes this gluten-free delight, making it a family favorite.

    Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders

    Air fryer buffalo chicken tenders
    Image source: This Silly Girl's Kitchen

    This dish brings together juicy chicken tenderloins with a spicy kick of buffalo sauce. Perfect for game day or a spicy dinner treat, it pairs well with cool, creamy dips.

    📋 Recipe

    29 best air fryer chicken tender recipes featured recipe

    Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

    Make delicious and healthy chicken tenders in an air fryer with this easy recipe. Enjoy crispy, golden-brown chicken without the excess oil!
    No ratings yet
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 5 minutes mins
    Cook Time 11 minutes mins
    Total Time 16 minutes mins
    Course Main Course
    Cuisine American
    Servings 4 people
    Calories 243 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    • Chicken Tenders
    • Olive Oil
    • Garlic Powder
    • Mild Buffalo Sauce
    • Blue Cheese Dressing for dipping

    Instructions
     

    Prepare the Chicken Tenders:

    • Lightly coat chicken tenders with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of garlic powder.
      Chicken Tenders, Olive Oil, Garlic Powder

    Preheat the Air Fryer:

    • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes.

    Air Frying:

    • Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

    First Half of Cooking:

    • Air fry the chicken tenders for 5-6 minutes.

    Add Buffalo Sauce:

    • Carefully open the air fryer and brush or drizzle mild buffalo sauce over the chicken tenders.
      Mild Buffalo Sauce

    Finish Cooking:

    • Continue air frying the chicken tenders for the remaining 5 minutes, or until they are cooked through and have a crispy exterior.

    Serve:

    • Once cooked to perfection, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer.
    • Serve the flavorful and slightly spicy chicken tenders with a side of blue cheese dressing for dipping.
      Blue Cheese Dressing

    Nutrition

    Calories: 243kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 32gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 96mgSodium: 590mgPotassium: 564mgFiber: 0.1gSugar: 0.2gVitamin A: 45IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 1mg
    Keyword airfryer, chicken, tenders
    Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can you cook tenders in an air fryer?

    Absolutely! Air frying chicken tenders not only ensures a crispy outside but also a juicy inside.

    How long do you cook raw tenders in the air fryer?

    The cook time for raw tenders typically ranges between 8 to 12 minutes at 400°F. However, always consult the specific air fryer recipe for best results.

    Should you put raw chicken in an air fryer?

    Yes, raw chicken can be placed in the air fryer. Ensure you've prepped it with the right ingredients for optimal flavor and crispiness.

    Why is my chicken tenders soggy from the air fryer?

    This might be due to overcrowding the air fryer basket or not using the right mixture of breadcrumbs and flour. It's best to cook in batches and ensure the tenders are in a single layer for even cooking.

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