Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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1. Heat the air fryer to 190°C / 375°F for 3 minutes.

   Mark done Start 3 min timer

2. Pat the chicken dry. Mix the flour with half the salt and the pepper in one dish, put the eggs in a second and mix the panko with the paprika, garlic powder and remaining salt in a third.

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3. Dredge each strip in the flour, dip in the egg, then press firmly into the panko so it is completely coated.

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4. Spray the strips generously with oil on both sides.

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5. Arrange in a single layer in the basket, not touching, in two batches if needed.

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6. Cook 5 minutes, turn, spray any pale spots and cook 5 to 7 minutes more, until deep golden and 74°C / 165°F.

   Mark done Start 5 min timer

7. Serve hot with the sauce.

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Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

• Spray the crumbs with oil. Without it they stay pale.
• Press the panko on. Loose crumbs blow around the basket.
• Keep the strips from touching so the coating crisps on all sides.

Common Substitutions & Variations

• Panko gives the crunchiest crust here, but ordinary dried breadcrumbs will still fry crisp if that's what's in the cupboard.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

• Honey mustard
• Sweet potato fries
• Coleslaw

Storing & Reheating Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Refrigerate up to 3 days and re-crisp in the air fryer at 180°C for 4 minutes. Freeze uncooked breaded strips for 3 months and cook from frozen, adding 4 minutes.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders FAQ: Common Questions

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Nutrition

Per serving, calculated from the ingredient list. Treat these as an estimate — brands and cuts vary.