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In recent years, air fryers have surged in popularity, revolutionizing the way we cook and enjoy our favorite foods. These versatile kitchen appliances allow home cooks to achieve that crispy, golden-brown texture we all crave, but with significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. The allure of healthier cooking without sacrificing flavor has made air fryers a staple in modern kitchens across the globe.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Discover the joy of making Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, a healthier twist on a classic favorite. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to achieve that crunchy exterior and juicy interior using minimal oil. Learn about the essential ingredients, marinating tips, and perfect breading techniques that elevate your tenders. Ideal for any meal, these tenders are not just delicious but also nutritious, making them perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon black pepper

1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup all-purpose flour

Cooking spray (or olive oil spray)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken tenders, making sure they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.

    Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In the second bowl, add the marinated chicken tenders (remove excess buttermilk). In the third bowl, place the seasoned breadcrumbs.

      Bread the Chicken: Take each chicken tender and coat it in flour, shaking off the excess. Next, dip it in the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off, and finally coat it in the breadcrumbs. Press gently so the breadcrumbs adhere well.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

          Air Fry the Tenders: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded (cook in batches if necessary). Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray.

            Cooking Time: Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

              Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch.

                Prep Time: 1 hour (plus marinating) | Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes | Servings: 4 servings