Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.3 from 9 reviews

Crispy and flavorful Breaded Air Fryer Chicken Tenders marinated in a tangy mixture of mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and garlic, then coated with a crunchy blend of Panko, plain bread crumbs, and Parmesan cheese. Quick to prepare and perfect for a healthy, delicious meal with a golden-brown finish thanks to the air fryer.

  • Total Time: 17 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Marinade

  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 Tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 garlic clove, pressed
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper

Chicken

  • 1 lb chicken tenders

Breading

  • 1/2 cup Panko bread crumbs
  • 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 3/4 tsp salt
  • 1/8 tsp black pepper

Other

  • Avocado oil spray or cooking spray for air fryer basket

Instructions

  1. Make the marinade and add the chicken: In a large bowl, combine the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and pressed garlic clove. Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, tossing them well to coat evenly with the marinade. For the best flavor, you can let the chicken marinate for a few hours or even overnight, though you can proceed immediately if short on time.
  2. Prepare the breading mixture: In a separate bowl, mix together the plain bread crumbs, Panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper, ensuring an even blend of all components.
  3. Coat the chicken tenders: Generously dredge each marinated chicken tender in the breading mixture until well-coated on all sides, pressing gently so the breading adheres nicely.
  4. Preheat and prepare air fryer basket: Arrange about 4 breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. Lightly spray the bottom of the basket and the tops of the chicken tenders with avocado oil spray or your choice of cooking spray. This helps achieve a crispy texture when cooking.
  5. Air fry the chicken tender: Cook the tenders in the air fryer at 400°F (204°C) for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping halfway through. The total cooking time is approximately 8-10 minutes until the breading is golden and crisp.
  6. Check doneness: Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of a chicken tender to ensure it has reached an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  7. Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve immediately for optimal crispiness. They pair well with dipping sauces or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Marinating the chicken tenders for several hours enhances the flavor but is optional.
  • You can substitute avocado oil spray with any neutral cooking spray if preferred.
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even crisping.
  • Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the air fryer for best texture, about 3-4 minutes at 350°F.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 7 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Find it online: https://avascooking.com/breaded-air-fryer-chicken-tenders-recipe/