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air fryer chicken tenders

air fryer chicken tenders

These air fryer chicken tenders are a quick, crispy, family-friendly meal made in just minutes. Tender chicken strips are coated in seasoned flour, dipped in a simple buttermilk mixture, and finished with crunchy breadcrumbs before being air-fried to golden perfection. This healthier alternative to deep-fried tenders delivers incredible flavor with minimal oil, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Breading + Air Frying Time 22 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 260
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein
  • 1.5–2 lbs chicken tenderloins
Flour Mixture
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
  • 1 oz ranch seasoning packet optional
Wet Ingredients (Buttermilk Mix)
  • ¾ cup milk
  • 1½ tsp vinegar
  • 1 egg
  • 1–2 tsp hot sauce optional
Breading
  • 2½ cups plain breadcrumbs
  • 2½ tbsp chicken seasoning mix e.g., rotisserie seasoning
Finishing
  • Avocado oil spray

Equipment

  • Air fryer 5–6 quart basket style
  • Breading stations 3 shallow bowls
  • Sharp knife
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Stations:
    Mix flour, salt, and optional ranch seasoning in one bowl.
    In another bowl, combine milk, vinegar, egg, and optional hot sauce.
    In a third bowl, mix breadcrumbs with seasoning blend.
  2. Prep the Chicken: Flatten chicken tenders slightly with the back of a knife for even cooking.
  3. Bread the Tenders:
    Dredge chicken in flour and shake off excess.
    Dip into the buttermilk mixture and let extra drip off.
    Coat fully in the breadcrumb mixture.
  4. Air Fry:
    Place tenders in a single layer inside the air fryer basket.
    Spray generously with avocado oil.
    Air fry at 400°F for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway if desired.
    Cook until internal temperature reaches 165–175°F.
  5. Serve:
    Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces or as part of salads, wraps, sliders, or bowls.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the basket, proper air circulation ensures crispiness.
  • Shake off excess flour and buttermilk to prevent soggy breading.
  • Avocado oil is ideal for high heat and even browning.
  • To reheat: Air fry at 375°F for 3–4 minutes, no oil needed.
  • For gluten-free: Use GF flour + GF breadcrumbs.