Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Craving comfort food that’s outrageously crispy without the deep-fried mess? These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are absolutely dreamy: golden, crunch-coated on the outside, and perfectly juicy inside.

Incredibly easy and ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe turns simple chicken strips into a family favorite. You’ll love the mouthwatering blend of seasoned breadcrumbs and a hint of garlic. No greasy pans or long clean-up required!

Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, a crowd-pleasing party platter, or even satisfying picky eaters. Inspired by school cafeteria nostalgia but way tastier (and better for you).

Once you try these, you’ll want to skip the drive-thru forever!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Super crispy texture with little to no oil
• Quick and easy—on your plate in less than 30 minutes
• Kid-friendly and crowd-approved
• Cleaner and healthier than deep-frying

Key Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Chicken Tenders

The star of the show! Look for fresh, firm chicken breast tenders or slice boneless skinless breasts into thick strips if needed. Trim off any visible fat. Chicken thighs work for a juicier, richer bite but may require a minute or two extra in the air fryer.

Panko Breadcrumbs

Panko gives the tenders that irresistible crunch and airy texture. Regular breadcrumbs will do in a pinch, but for maximum crunch, panko can’t be beat. If needed, opt for gluten-free panko for an allergy-friendly version.

Parmesan Cheese

Finely grated Parmesan adds a savory depth and an extra crispy coating. Use fresh-grated for the best melt and flavor. If going dairy-free, nutritional yeast is a delicious and cheesy-tasting substitute.

Eggs

Beaten eggs help the breading stick for a thick, even crust. If you’re out, try a mixture of plain yogurt and a splash of milk to help bind the coating.

Seasonings

A blend of garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper adds bold flavor that pops in every bite. Play with your favorite herbs and spices—like cayenne for heat or Italian seasoning for a herby twist!

Instructions for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

See recipe card below for full list of measurements, ingredients, and instructions.

Set Up Your Breading Station

You'll need three shallow bowls: one for flour (mixed with seasonings), one for beaten eggs, and one for the panko-Parmesan mixture. This makes coating the chicken quick and mess-free.

Dredge the Chicken

Pat chicken tenders dry, then dip each piece first in the seasoned flour, ensuring all sides are coated. Next, dunk in the egg wash, and finally, coat with the panko-Parmesan mixture. Press gently so the coating sticks well.

Arrange and Spray

Place the breaded tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket. Leave a little space between pieces for even cooking. Lightly spritz both sides with olive oil spray to guarantee golden, crispy results.

Air Fry Until Crispy

Air fry at 400°F for 11 to 13 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The outside should be deeply crisp, and the inside juicy—check for doneness if your tenders are thicker.

Serve Hot and Enjoy

Serve immediately while the tenders are at peak crispiness. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces and sides for the ultimate comfort meal!

Recipe Variations

Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders

Swap out the all-purpose flour for a cup-for-cup gluten-free blend and use gluten-free panko. You’ll get all the same crunch—perfect for anyone avoiding gluten.

Add a Spicy Kick

Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or a teaspoon of hot sauce into the flour or eggs for a batch with some heat! Buffalo-style is always a crowd-pleaser.

Dairy-Free Option

Leave out the Parmesan cheese or replace it with nutritional yeast. The chicken tenders still come out super crispy and delicious!

Baked in the Oven

No air fryer? No problem! Arrange the prepared tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, spray with oil, and bake at 425°F for 15-18 minutes, turning once, until golden and cooked through.

Serving Suggestions

Round out your meal by serving these chicken tenders with crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or classic coleslaw. Dipping sauces like tangy honey mustard, smoky barbecue, or homemade ranch make them truly irresistible. For a fun twist, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley or a bit of extra Parmesan just before serving.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in the air fryer at 375°F for 3-4 minutes until refreshed and crispy. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; reheat from frozen in the air fryer for 6-8 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the coating soggy.

Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (FAQ)

Q: Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
A: Yes! Just thaw completely and pat dry before breading for best results.

Q: How do I prevent the coating from sticking to the air fryer basket?
A: Use a light spray of olive oil and don’t overcrowd the basket. You can also use parchment paper made for air fryers.

Q: What’s the best way to keep the breading crispy?
A: Serve tenders immediately or reheat in the air fryer so the coating stays crunchy and delicious.

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are the best way to satisfy your cravings for something crisp, juicy, and fun—without any hassle or guilt! Give this easy recipe a try, and let me know how your family loves it. If you enjoyed it, please leave a comment and a rating below!