Ultimate Air Fryer Chicken Tender Recipe: Crispy, Juicy, and Healthier Than Fried!

#### Air Fryer Chicken Tender RecipeIf you're on the lookout for a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders, look no further……

#### Air Fryer Chicken Tender Recipe

If you're on the lookout for a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders, look no further! This **air fryer chicken tender recipe** is your answer. Not only does it provide that satisfying crunch we all crave, but it also significantly reduces the amount of oil used in cooking, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

#### Why Choose Air Frying?

Air frying is a revolutionary cooking method that uses hot air circulation to cook food, resulting in a crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil. This method not only cuts down on calories but also retains the moisture inside the chicken, making it tender and juicy. The air fryer is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping, as it cooks quickly and efficiently.

#### Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the perfect **air fryer chicken tender recipe**, gather the following ingredients:

- 1 pound of chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)

- 1 cup of buttermilk (for marinating)

- 1 cup of breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crunch)

- 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour

- 1 teaspoon of garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon of onion powder

- 1 teaspoon of paprika

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Cooking spray or olive oil spray

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Marinate the Chicken**: Start by marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight in the refrigerator. This helps to tenderize the meat and adds flavor.

2. **Prepare the Breading Station**: In one bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

3. **Coat the Chicken**: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally coat it with breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is well-coated for maximum crunch.

4. **Preheat the Air Fryer**: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture.

5. **Cook the Chicken Tenders**: Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray to enhance browning. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

6. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.

#### Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

- **Do Not Overcrowd**: Ensure there's enough space between each chicken tender in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and soggy breading.

- **Experiment with Flavors**: Feel free to customize the seasonings in the flour mixture to suit your taste. Adding cayenne pepper for heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor profile can elevate your chicken tenders.

- **Check for Doneness**: Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid undercooked chicken.

#### Conclusion

This **air fryer chicken tender recipe** is a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a classic comfort food without the extra calories. With its simple preparation and quick cooking time, it’s perfect for family dinners, parties, or meal prep. So, grab your air fryer and get ready to enjoy some crispy, juicy chicken tenders that everyone will love!