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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Emily

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are perfectly seasoned, golden crispy on the outside, and juicy tender inside. Ready in just 15 minutes with simple pantry spices and no breading required.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 371
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins about 10-12 pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 spray cooking spray for air fryer basket

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for seasonings
  • Paper towels
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

  1. Preheat air fryer to 400 degrees F for 2-3 minutes. Pat chicken tenderloins completely dry with paper towels.
  2. Place dried chicken tenders in a large mixing bowl. Drizzle olive oil over chicken and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
  3. In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, and basil. Mix thoroughly.
  4. Sprinkle seasoning mixture over oiled chicken tenders and toss until completely coated with spices.
  5. Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange seasoned tenders in a single layer without overlapping. Cook at 400 degrees F for 7 minutes.
  6. Open air fryer and flip each tender using tongs. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.
  7. Remove tenders from basket and let rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Always pat chicken completely dry before seasoning for maximum crispiness.
  • Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Flip tenders halfway through for even browning on both sides.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F internal temperature.
  • Store leftovers in refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.
  • For breaded version, dip seasoned chicken in beaten egg then coat with panko breadcrumbs before air frying.