Description
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, made with seasoned breading and cooked to golden perfection using little to no oil.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Place chicken tenders in a bowl and pour over the buttermilk. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
- In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange tenders in a single layer without overcrowding. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use Panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer—cook in batches if needed.
- Optional: add cayenne for a spicy kick or Italian seasoning for a flavor boost.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2-3 tenders
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg