Crispy outside, juicy inside
When you want a fast, comforting meal that everyone loves, Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are always a winning choice. They’re golden and crispy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside — all without deep frying.
Perfect for busy weeknights, kids’ meals, or even meal prep, this recipe delivers classic flavor with much less oil and mess.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy without deep frying
- Ready in 15–18 minutes
- Kid-friendly and family-approved
- Easy cleanup
- Great for dipping sauces
Recommended Air Fryers for This Recipe
Large Capacity & Family Cooking
If you’re making chicken tenders for the whole family, a spacious air fryer helps cook everything evenly in fewer batches.
NinjaLarge-Capacity Air Fryer
✔ Ideal for chicken tenders, wings, and family meals
- AIR CRISP TECHNOLOGY: 400℉ superheated air surrounds food for hot, crispy results with little to no oil.
- LARGE CAPACITY: The 5-QT nonstick basket and crisper plate fit up to 4 lbs of French fries or 5 lbs of chicken wings.
- 4-in-1 FUNCTIONALITY: Air Fry, Roast, Reheat, and Dehydrate.
Extra Crisp & High Heat Performance
For ultra-crispy breading and even cooking, strong airflow and high heat are key.
TurboBlaze Premium Air Fryer (Ceramic Coating)
✔ Perfect for breaded chicken and crispy recipes
- 𝘼𝙞𝙧 𝙁𝙧𝙮𝙚𝙧 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Innovative TurboBlaze Technology delivers a powerful 3600 rpm fan speed and temperatures up to 450℉, …
- 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: Cosori’s unique 5-fan speed system and precise 90°– 450°F temperature control deliver evenly cooked dis…
- 𝘾𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙘 𝘾𝙤𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙐𝙥𝙜𝙧𝙖𝙙𝙚: The basket and crisper tray feature a premium ceramic coating that is nonstick, durable, and he…
Small Kitchens & Quick Meals
Cooking for one or two? A compact air fryer works perfectly for quick batches.
ChefmanMini Air Fryer
✔ Space-saving and beginner-friendly
- FAST AND EASY: This small air fryer comes prepared for any culinary challenge. The capacitive touch screen display can c…
- HEALTHY COOKING: Say goodbye to excess oil and fat, and hello to healthy cooking. This mini air fryer uses little-to-no …
- SUPREME SPACE-SAVER: The square basket maximizes its 2-quart capacity. Housed in a sleek, narrow design to keep its coun…
Ingredients
- 1½ pounds chicken tenders (or sliced chicken breast)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prepare the Coating
In a bowl, mix breadcrumbs, parmesan (if using), salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks well.
Step 3: Air Fry
Preheat air fryer to 390°F (200°C).
Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer.
Lightly spray with oil.
Cook for 8–9 minutes, flip, spray lightly again, then cook another 6–8 minutes until golden and cooked through.
Step 4: Serve
Remove from air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Tips for Extra Crispy Chicken Tenders
- Use panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch
- Don’t overcrowd the basket
- Light oil spray makes a big difference
- Flip halfway for even browning
Dipping Sauce Ideas
- Honey mustard
- BBQ sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Garlic aioli
- Ketchup (classic)
What to Serve With Chicken Tenders
- Air fryer fries
- Roasted vegetables
- Simple salad
- Coleslaw
Storage & Reheating
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3–4 minutes
- Avoid microwaving to keep them crispy
Final Thoughts
These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders prove that comfort food can be quick, crispy, and lighter at the same time. They’re perfect for busy nights when you want something everyone will enjoy.
With the right air fryer, this recipe becomes a repeat favorite in any kitchen.