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Chicken tenders have long held a special place in the hearts and stomachs of families across the globe. Their tender, juicy meat and crispy exterior make them a go-to choice for both kids and adults alike. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner or a fun party appetizer, chicken tenders are universally loved for their flavor and versatility. However, traditional methods of preparing chicken tenders often involve deep frying, which can contribute to unhealthy eating habits due to excess oil and calories. This is where the air fryer shines, presenting a healthier alternative without sacrificing that coveted crispy texture.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Discover the joy of Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, a family favorite reinvented for healthier eating! With tender, juicy chicken coated in a crunchy panko layer, these tenders are perfect for any occasion—from quick weeknight dinners to party appetizers. Marinated for maximum flavor and cooked with minimal oil, they're both delicious and nutritious. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy recipe that balances taste and health without sacrificing that beloved crispy texture. Perfect for kids and adults alike!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a hint of heat)

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper until well combined. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, ensuring they are fully submerged in the marinade. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to infuse.

    Prepare the Coatings: In a shallow dish, mix the all-purpose flour with a pinch of salt and black pepper, ensuring an even distribution. In a separate shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs with dried thyme and dried oregano.

      Coat the Chicken: After marinating, remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour mixture, gently shaking off the excess flour. Dip it back into the buttermilk, then thoroughly coat it in the panko mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure a good adhesion of the breadcrumbs.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to preheat at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 5 minutes. This step ensures that your tenders will cook evenly.

          Arrange in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer within the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. If necessary, cook in batches to maintain the ideal cooking environment.

            Air Fry the Tenders: Spray the tops of the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray or olive oil to promote crispiness. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside. To ensure they are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

              Serve: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo for an extra kick.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | Serves 4