Description
These extra-crispy air fryer chicken tenders mimic the texture of deep-fried chicken without the mess or guilt. Using a double-dip dredging method and panko breadcrumbs, they deliver a shaggy, crunchy exterior and juicy interior in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- Splash of milk or buttermilk
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Cooking spray (olive oil or canola oil)
Instructions
- Pat chicken breasts dry and slice into 1-inch thick, 3-4 inch long strips. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set up three shallow bowls: Bowl 1 with flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; Bowl 2 with beaten eggs and milk; Bowl 3 with panko breadcrumbs, extra garlic powder, and salt.
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, then press firmly into the panko breadcrumbs to create a thick coating.
- Place coated tenders on a plate or wire rack. For extra crispiness, let them sit for 10-15 minutes to set the coating.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Place tenders in a single layer without overlapping.
- Spray the tops of the tenders generously with cooking oil.
- Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through and spraying the other side with oil.
- Cook until the coating is deep golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Transfer to a wire rack or plate and let rest for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness. For extra crunch, use the double-dip method (egg, panko, egg, panko). Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1-2 tenders per serv
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 20
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, crispy chicken, healthy fried chicken, quick dinner, family friendly recipes, panko chicken