- Trim and Cut: If using chicken breasts, trim any excess fat and cut them into strips about 1 inch wide. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to help the coating adhere better.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
- Flour Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Egg Mixture: In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
- Breadcrumb Mixture: In a third shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with the grated Parmesan cheese if using.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
- Coat in Flour: Dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess.
- Dip in Egg: Dip the floured chicken strip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Roll the chicken strip in the panko breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs. Set aside on a plate and repeat with the remaining chicken strips.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
- Preheat: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
Cooking Steps
Step 5: Cook the Chicken Tenders
- Arrange in Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a bit of oil. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Make sure not to overcrowd them; cook in batches if necessary.
- Air Fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Making the Dipping Sauce
Step 6: Prepare the Sauce
- Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, ketchup, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Stir until smooth and well blended.
- Serve: Transfer the dipping sauce to a serving bowl and refrigerate until ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
Side Dishes
- French Fries: Crispy fries are a classic pairing with chicken tenders.
- Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw complements the crunch of the chicken.
- Salad: A fresh green salad adds a healthy balance to the meal.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side dish.
Additional Dips
- Ranch Dressing: A cool, creamy ranch dip is always a hit.
- Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy honey mustard sauce pairs well with the chicken tenders.
- BBQ Sauce: A smoky BBQ sauce adds a rich, flavorful contrast.
Tips and Tricks
For Extra Crispiness
- Double Dipping: For an extra crunchy coating, you can double dip the chicken. After the first coating of breadcrumbs, dip the chicken back into the egg mixture and then coat with breadcrumbs again.
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, providing an extra crunch.
Cooking Variations
- Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Crusted Tenders: Mix dried herbs like basil, oregano, and thyme into the breadcrumb mixture for an herbaceous flavor.
Storing and Reheating
- Storing: Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to retain crispiness.
Conclusion
Air fryer chicken tenders are a delightful, healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. With their crispy coating and juicy interior, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. This detailed guide provides everything you need to make delicious chicken tenders with ease. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, these tenders are guaranteed to please. Enjoy the crunch and flavor of homemade chicken tenders straight from your air fryer!
Key Takeaway
The secret to perfect air fryer chicken tenders lies in the proper breading technique and the right cooking time. By following these steps and tips, you can achieve a deliciously crispy and tender chicken that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Experiment with different seasonings and dipping sauces to make this recipe your own. Happy cooking!