Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Why make this recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, using an air fryer means you can enjoy this favorite without the extra oil, making it a lighter option.

How to make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup dill pickle ranch seasoning
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (optional for extra crunch)
• Cooking spray or oil for air frying
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken tenders in dill pickle ranch seasoning, ensuring they are evenly covered. If desired, you can dip them in breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
5. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Serve your chicken tenders hot with a side of dipping sauce, like ranch or honey mustard. They go great with a fresh salad or as part of a meal with roasted vegetables.

How to store Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

To store any leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool completely. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispiness.

Tips to make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

• Make sure to not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Give each tender space for air to circulate.
• Experiment with different seasonings if you want to switch things up. Garlic powder or paprika can add great flavor.
• If you want a lighter option, skip the breadcrumbs and use just the seasoning.

Variation

You can easily change the flavor of your chicken tenders by using different seasonings or marinades. Try using barbecue seasoning, buffalo sauce, or even a lemon herb mix to create a different taste.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes, checking for doneness.

What dipping sauces go well with chicken tenders?
Popular dipping sauces include ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and buffalo sauce.

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders and coat them in seasoning ahead of time. Store them in the fridge for a few hours before cooking when you’re ready to eat.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, perfect for both kids and adults.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 22 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main ingredients

• 1 pound chicken tenders
• 1 cup dill pickle ranch seasoning
• 1 cup breadcrumbs optional for extra crunch
• as needed spray cooking spray or oil for air frying
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper.
3. Coat the chicken tenders in dill pickle ranch seasoning, ensuring they are evenly covered. Optionally, dip them in breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
4. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
5. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Serving

1. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch or honey mustard. They pair well with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.

Notes

To store leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool completely, then place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking. Experiment with seasonings like garlic powder or paprika for added flavor.