Print

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Tenders

crispy air fryer chicken breast tenders - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders made in the air fryer. Using a double-dip breading technique with panko, these tenders are juicy inside and crunchy outside, ready in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free blend)
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • Cooking spray or avocado oil spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 380°F (190°C).
  2. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. If thick, pound to 1/2 inch thickness and slice into 1-inch wide strips.
  3. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with half the spices, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with remaining spices.
  4. Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
  5. Dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, letting excess drip off.
  6. Press the chicken firmly into the panko mixture to coat evenly.
  7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil.
  8. Place tenders in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap.
  9. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying tops with oil if desired.
  10. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F and coating is golden brown.
  11. Remove and rest on a wire rack for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

Ensure chicken is patted dry before breading to help the coating stick. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary. For a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper to the panko. Can be baked at 400°F for 15-18 minutes if an air fryer is not available.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken, chicken tenders, crispy chicken, healthy dinner, quick recipes, weeknight meals, gluten-free option