Get ready to elevate your snack game with these mouth-watering 20 Crispy Chicken Tender Recipes Air Fryer Delights! Say goodbye to greasy fried chicken and hello to a healthier, tastier alternative. Air frying has taken the world by storm, and for good reason – it’s easy, efficient, and produces results that will impress even the pickiest of eaters.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of air fryer chicken tenders. From classic flavors to bold twists, we’ve got you covered with our top picks for crispy, juicy, and utterly delicious air fryer chicken tender recipes. Whether you’re a fan of spicy kick or sweet and tangy, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering dishes.
Classic Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
A deliciously crispy and juicy twist on traditional chicken tenders, made with minimal oil and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spicy Buffalo Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these spicy buffalo air fryer chicken tenders! Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 1/2 cup Frank’s RedHot sauce
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip chicken tenders in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Air fry chicken for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through, flipping halfway.
5. While chicken is cooking, melt butter and mix with Frank’s RedHot sauce.
6. Brush buffalo sauce on chicken during last 2 minutes of cooking.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Honey Mustard Glazed Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your air fryer game with this simple recipe for Honey Mustard Glazed Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with flavor, these tenders are a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices (e.g., garlic powder, paprika)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, mustard, and olive oil.
3. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the glaze.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices.
5. Load the air fryer basket with the glazed chicken tenders in a single layer.
6. Cook for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this simple and flavorful recipe that yields crispy, cheesy bites. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying restaurant-quality results from the comfort of your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder.
6. Cook for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Garlic Herb Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these flavorful and crispy air-fried chicken tenders, infused with the savory aroma of garlic and herbs. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together garlic, olive oil, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken strips to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Place panko breadcrumbs in a shallow dish. Dredge marinated chicken tenders in breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
5. Cook chicken tenders in air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
BBQ Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Add a twist to classic chicken tenders with this simple recipe that combines the smokiness of BBQ sauce with the crispieness of air frying. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast strips
– 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the marinated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Pepper Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with this zesty and flavorful recipe that combines the crispiest air-fried chicken tenders with a bright and tangy lemon pepper seasoning. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins
– 2 tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together lemon pepper seasoning and salt.
3. Dip each chicken tender in olive oil, then coat evenly with lemon pepper mixture.
4. Place the coated tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until cooked through and crispy.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ranch Seasoned Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Get ready for crispy, flavorful chicken tenders with a ranch twist! This simple recipe yields mouthwatering results with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup ranch seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together ranch seasoning and a pinch of salt.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the ranch mixture, coating evenly.
4. Place the coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with pepper to taste.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
7. Shake the basket halfway through cooking for even cooking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Sweet and Spicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe
Transform your snack game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors. This air fryer chicken tender recipe is a must-try!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, soy sauce, sriracha, and garlic powder.
3. Add chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until fully coated with marinade.
4. Cook the chicken tenders in batches for 5-6 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun Style Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Get ready to spice up your air fryer with this bold and flavorful recipe! These Cajun-style chicken tenders are a game-changer, perfect for a quick snack or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s or Zatarain’s)
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, then coat in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Glazed Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with this easy recipe that combines the crispiest air-fried chicken tenders with a sticky teriyaki glaze. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these tender and flavorful bites are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add chicken tenders and toss to coat.
3. Cook chicken in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through and crispy.
4. While chicken is cooking, mix teriyaki glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
5. Remove chicken from air fryer and brush with teriyaki glaze during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Panko Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with this simple and delicious recipe that yields crispy, flavorful chicken tenders. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., paprika, dried herbs)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through and crispy, shaking halfway.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Maple Dijon Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this unique Maple Dijon flavor combination, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or party appetizer. This air fryer recipe yields crispy, juicy, and flavorful tenders that are sure to please!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast strips
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Cooking spray or oil, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Check for crispiness and cook an additional minute if needed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve: Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce!
Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these mouthwatering Hot Honey Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. The perfect blend of sweet and spicy, these crispy tenders are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons hot honey (such as Ghost Pepper or Scorpion Pepper)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: additional seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together hot honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken strips to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly.
4. Load the marinated chicken into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Greek Yogurt Marinated Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with this tangy and flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of Greek yogurt with the crispy goodness of air-fried chicken tenders.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs (e.g., parsley, dill, or thyme)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and mix until they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
5. Cook the chicken tenders in batches if necessary, cooking for 10-12 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Shake halfway through cooking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Asian Zing Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tenders game with this flavorful and crispy recipe that combines the best of Asian-inspired flavors with the convenience of an air fryer. In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious snack or meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the chicken tenders and toss to coat.
3. Load the coated chicken tenders into the air fryer basket in a single layer.
4. Cook for 12-14 minutes, shaking halfway through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Smoky Paprika Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful Smoky Paprika Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. The combination of smoky paprika, garlic powder, and a hint of brown sugar creates a depth of flavor that will have you hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenders
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade and toss to coat evenly.
4. Place the marinated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through, shaking halfway through.
6. Sprinkle with brown sugar during the last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your chicken tender game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese, savory garlic, and a crispy air-fried exterior.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together garlic, breadcrumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Chili Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these sweet and spicy chicken tenders cooked to perfection in an air fryer. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast tenders
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon sweet chili sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, honey, sweet chili sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken tenders to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Place marinated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Crispy Buttermilk Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: A Game-Changer for Snack Time!
These tender and juicy chicken strips are coated in a crispy buttermilk mixture, then air-fried to perfection. The result is a healthier alternative to deep-fried tenders that still packs plenty of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Optional: your favorite seasonings (e.g., cayenne pepper, dried herbs)
Instructions:
1. Preheat air fryer to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the buttermilk mixture, then coat in the flour mixture.
4. Place coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking halfway through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes