Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

  1. Season the Flour:
    • In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Prepare the Egg Wash:
    • In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and water until well combined.
  3. Mix the Breadcrumbs:
    • In a third shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
  4. Coat the Chicken:
    • Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Dip it into the egg wash, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs.

Step 2: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  2. Arrange the Tenders:
    • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook them in batches.
  3. Cook:
    • Air fry the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

Step 3: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

  1. Mix the Sauce:
    • In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice. Mix well until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

  1. Plate the Chicken Tenders:
    • Transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a serving platter. Serve immediately with the optional dipping sauce on the side.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

  • Uniform Size: Ensure the chicken tenders are of uniform size for even cooking.
  • Preheating: Preheat the air fryer to achieve a crispy texture.
  • Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray before cooking for extra crispiness.

Serving Suggestions

  • Sides: Serve with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Dips: Besides the honey mustard dipping sauce, you can also serve with ketchup, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.

Conclusion

Crispy air fryer chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. This recipe is easy to follow and results in tender, juicy chicken with a perfectly crispy coating. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner or a party appetizer, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. Enjoy the delightful crunch and flavor of this classic comfort food made even better with the convenience of an air fryer!

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