Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Introduction

Who doesn’t love the irresistible crunch and juicy flavor of chicken tenders? A favorite among both kids and adults, chicken tenders have a special place in our hearts and on our dinner tables. But what if I told you that you could make your chicken tenders even more delicious, healthier, and without the hassle of deep frying? Yes, it’s possible with an air fryer! In this guide, I’ll share secrets to achieving perfect air fryer chicken tenders, ensuring they come out crispy on the outside and tender on the inside every single time.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: A Crispy Delight

Air frying has revolutionized the way we cook, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. Here’s an introduction to the ease and health benefits of cooking chicken tenders in an air fryer.

Ease of Cooking

Preparation Simplicity: Chicken tenders require minimal preparation before being placed in the air fryer. A light coating of oil and your choice of seasoning or breadcrumb mixture is all that’s needed.
Quick Cooking Time: Air fryers heat up quickly and cook food faster than conventional ovens. Chicken tenders can be ready in as little as 10 to 15 minutes, making them a perfect option for a quick meal.
Easy Cleanup: Since air frying requires significantly less oil than traditional frying, there’s less mess to clean up afterward. Many air fryer components are dishwasher safe, further simplifying the post-cooking process.

Health Benefits

Reduced Fat Content: By using significantly less oil, air-fried chicken tenders have a lower fat content than their deep-fried counterparts. This can help reduce your overall calorie intake.
Lower Risk of Toxic Compounds: Traditional deep frying at high temperatures can lead to the formation of harmful compounds like acrylamide. Air frying reduces the risk of these compounds forming, making it a safer cooking method.
Preservation of Nutrients: Cooking at the controlled temperatures of an air fryer can help preserve the nutrients in your chicken tenders better than high-temperature deep-frying.

Preparing Your Chicken Tenders

Preparing chicken tenders in an air fryer can be a versatile and straightforward process, whether you’re starting with raw, marinated chicken or cooking them straight from frozen. Additionally, opting for no-breading recipes can offer a healthier, lower-carb alternative while still delivering delicious results. Here’s how to prepare your chicken tenders using these methods.

Best Chicken Tender Marinade

Ingredients:

1/2 cup olive oil
1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for a gluten-free option)
Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
2 tablespoons honey (or maple syrup for a vegan alternative)
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a subtle smokiness)
1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to heat preference)
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried rosemary)
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
Salt to taste (start with 1/2 teaspoon and adjust)

Instructions:

Combine Ingredients:

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, rosemary, thyme, and salt. Ensure everything is well combined and the honey is fully dissolved.

Taste and Adjust:

Give the marinade a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Depending on your preference, you might want to add more salt, a bit more honey for sweetness, or increase the cayenne for additional heat.

Marinate the Chicken:

Place your chicken tenders in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. If using a bag, seal it and gently massage the marinade into the chicken. In a dish, cover with plastic wrap.

Refrigerate:

Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though 2 hours to overnight is ideal for deeper flavor penetration and tenderization. The acid from the lemon juice and the enzymes in the garlic will help tenderize the chicken, while the oil and seasonings infuse it with moisture and flavor.

Ready to Cook:

When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the remaining marinade. Cook the chicken tenders in your preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Tips:

Marinating Time: For the best results, allow the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours. If you’re short on time, even 30 minutes can make a difference.
Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with different herbs based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Parsley, cilantro, or basil can also add a fresh flavor profile to the marinade.
Acid Options: While lemon juice is a classic choice, you can experiment with other acids like lime juice, orange juice, or even balsamic vinegar for a different twist.

This marinade is designed to be flexible and can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Enjoy your flavorful, tender, and juicy chicken tenders cooked to perfection in the air fryer!

Marinating Raw Chicken Tenders for Air Frying

Marinating your chicken tenders before air frying can infuse them with flavors and ensure they come out juicy and tender.

Choose Your Marinade: Select a marinade according to your taste preferences. This could be anything from a simple mixture of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs to something more complex like a yogurt-based marinade with spices.
Marinate the Chicken: Place your chicken tenders in a bowl or resealable plastic bag with the marinade. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, though several hours or overnight is preferable for deeper flavor.
Prep for Air Frying: Before cooking, let the chicken sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Preheat your air fryer to around 375°F (190°C). Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess.
Cook: Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching for even cooking. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Cooking Frozen Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

Frozen chicken tenders are incredibly convenient and can be cooked directly from frozen in the air fryer.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the tenders will start cooking immediately and become crispy.
Arrange the Tenders: Place the frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer basket. Make sure they’re in a single layer and not overlapping for even cooking.
Cook: Cook for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The exact time will depend on the size of the tenders and your air fryer model. They’re done when they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders No Breading

For a healthier option, you can cook chicken tenders in the air fryer without breading. This method reduces the carb content and keeps the tenders gluten-free.

Season the Chicken: Even without breading, you’ll want to flavor your chicken. Season the tenders with salt, pepper, and any other spices you like. A light brush of olive oil can help the seasonings stick and ensure the chicken doesn’t dry out during cooking.
Cook: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the seasoned chicken tenders in the basket in a single layer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re fully cooked and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Cooking Techniques and Times

Cooking chicken tenders in an air fryer is a game-changer for quick, delicious meals. The air fryer’s ability to circulate hot air around the food allows for crispy exteriors and juicy interiors without the need for excessive oil. Here’s a guide to cooking times for both fresh and frozen chicken tenders, as well as a recipe for making mouth-watering air fryer buffalo chicken tenders.

How Long to Cook Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

For fresh or marinated chicken tenders:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures a quick start to cooking and helps achieve a crispy texture.
Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they’re not touching to allow for even air circulation.
Cook for about 10-15 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time. The exact time can vary based on the size of your chicken tenders and the specific model of your air fryer.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Chicken is safe to eat when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

How Long to Cook Frozen Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

For frozen chicken tenders:

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). The higher temperature accounts for the tenders being frozen and helps achieve a crispy coating.
Place the frozen chicken tenders in the basket, again ensuring they do not overlap.
Cook for about 12-20 minutes, depending on the size of the tenders and whether they’re precooked. Flip them halfway through cooking.
Temperature Check: Ensure they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consuming.

How to Make Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders

Buffalo chicken tenders bring a spicy, tangy flavor to the table, making them a favorite for many. Here’s how to make them in your air fryer:

Ingredients:

1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour (for a gluten-free version, use almond flour or a gluten-free flour blend)
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
2 tbsp butter, melted (optional, for a richer sauce)

Instructions:

Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Season the flour with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish.
Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and back into the flour for a final coat. This double-dipping creates a crispy coating.
Cook the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re crispy and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Warm the buffalo sauce with the melted butter, if using, in a small saucepan or in the microwave.
Toss the cooked chicken tenders in the buffalo sauce until they’re well coated.
Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce, like blue cheese or ranch, and celery sticks on the side.

Cooking times may vary slightly based on the air fryer model and the size of the chicken tenders. Always ensure chicken tenders reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked. Enjoy your crispy, spicy buffalo chicken tenders made easy and healthier with your air fryer!

Excellent pairing

This banana pudding, with its layers of velvety vanilla custard, ripe bananas, and soft vanilla wafers, topped with a light and fluffy whipped cream, offers a refreshing and indulgent counterpoint to the savory crunch of chicken tenders. The combination of the warm, crispy chicken with the cool, sweet pudding creates a satisfying balance of flavors and textures, making for a meal that’s both comforting and delightfully unexpected.

Advanced Tips and Tricks

Air fryers are not just excellent for cooking; they’re also fantastic for reheating and warming up foods while maintaining or even enhancing texture and flavor. Here are some advanced tips and tricks for reheating, ensuring juiciness, and warming up chicken tenders in an air fryer to perfection.

Reheating for Perfection: How to Reheat Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

Reheating chicken tenders in an air fryer is a great way to restore their crispy exterior without drying them out.

Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). A slightly lower temperature is used for reheating to ensure the tenders warm through without overcooking.
Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overlapping to ensure even reheating.
Reheat for 3-5 minutes, or until they’re heated through and crispy. The exact time will depend on the size of the tenders and how cold they were to start with.
Check to make sure they’re warmed to your liking before serving.

Ensuring Juiciness: How to Cook Raw Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

Cooking raw chicken tenders in an air fryer so they come out juicy every time involves a few key steps:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Starting with a preheated air fryer helps cook the chicken evenly.
Season your chicken tenders as desired. You can use a marinade, dry rub, or simply salt and pepper. If using a marinade, let excess drip off before cooking.
Oil Lightly (optional). Though not always necessary, spraying or brushing the chicken tenders with a bit of oil can help prevent sticking and enhance browning.
Cook in a single layer for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The cooking time may vary based on the size of your tenders and the specific air fryer model.
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F (74°C).

Warming Up: How to Warm Up Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

Warming up chicken tenders so they retain their texture without becoming too dry is similar to reheating but requires a gentler approach.

Preheat the air fryer to 300°F (150°C). The lower temperature warms the tenders without cooking them further.
Arrange the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.
Warm for 2-4 minutes. Since you’re just warming them, it should take less time than reheating.
Check to ensure they’re warmed to your satisfaction before serving.

Additional Tips

Avoid Overcrowding: Whether you’re cooking, reheating, or warming up chicken tenders, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Air circulation is key to achieving an even cook or reheat.
Resting Time: Letting chicken tenders rest for a minute or two after cooking or reheating can help redistribute the juices, ensuring they’re juicy and flavorful.
Experiment with Cooking Times: Depending on your air fryer model and the size of the chicken tenders, cooking times can vary. It may take a few tries to find the perfect timing for your specific needs.

FAQs

How long to reheat chicken tenders in air fryer?

Reheating chicken tenders in an air fryer is quick and ensures they remain crispy. Set your air fryer to 350°F and heat the tenders for 3-4 minutes. If they’re not quite warm enough, give them another minute, but be careful not to overcook them to avoid drying out.

How long to cook breaded chicken tenders in air fryer?

Breaded chicken tenders typically take about 10-12 minutes to cook in an air fryer set at 375°F. It’s important to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they’re evenly crispy and golden.

What temperature to reheat chicken tenders in air fryer?

The ideal temperature for reheating chicken tenders in an air fryer is 350°F. This temperature warms the tenders thoroughly without burning the breading or drying out the chicken.

How to make frozen chicken tenders in air fryer?

To cook frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 375°F. Place the frozen tenders in the basket in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. Cook for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re fully heated and crispy.

How long to put tenders in air fryer?

The cooking time for chicken tenders in an air fryer can vary based on their size and whether they’re fresh or frozen. Fresh tenders usually require 10-12 minutes at 375°F, while frozen tenders might need 15-20 minutes.

What temperature do you air fry chicken at?

For chicken tenders, the optimal air frying temperature is usually around 375°F. This temperature ensures the tenders cook through evenly while achieving a crispy exterior.

Can I put raw chicken in the air fryer?

Yes, you can cook raw chicken in the air fryer. Ensure it’s properly seasoned or marinated first, then cook at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes, depending on the size of the tenders. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

How long to cook frozen chicken tenders in air fryer at 400?

When cooking frozen chicken tenders at 400°F, they’ll cook a bit faster. Start checking for doneness at around 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. The higher temperature makes them extra crispy, but keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Conclusion

Embracing the air fryer for making chicken tenders not only simplifies the cooking process but also offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. With the ability to cook from both fresh and frozen, the air fryer ensures that you can enjoy crispy, delicious chicken tenders with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Whether you prefer them breaded, seasoned, or doused in buffalo sauce, the air fryer can handle it all, making it a versatile tool in your kitchen arsenal.