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Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) Recipe

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3.9 from 4 reviews

These Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a quick and healthy meal option that requires no breading. Coated with a flavorful blend of spices and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for a family dinner or a protein-packed snack, these chicken tenders offer a delicious way to enjoy tender chicken with minimal effort and maximum taste.

  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins or chicken breast (cut into 3-5 inch length pieces if needed)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 tablespoon of your favorite no-sodium seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper

Garnish

  • 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken tenderloins with olive or avocado oil, cornstarch, no-sodium seasoning, paprika, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Mix thoroughly until each piece is fully coated with the flavorful sauce.
  2. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) to preheat for optimal cooking temperature.
  3. Air Fry the Chicken: Arrange the coated chicken pieces evenly in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook the tenders for 4-8 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip each piece and cook for an additional 4-8 minutes or until the chicken's internal juices run clear and it reaches a safe internal temperature.
  4. Garnish and Serve: Remove the cooked chicken tenders and sprinkle with finely chopped parsley. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your crispy, flavorful chicken tenders.

Notes

  • Cooking times may vary depending on the size of chicken pieces and the specific air fryer model; always check for doneness.
  • For extra crispiness, you can lightly spray the chicken with a cooking spray before air frying.
  • Feel free to adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
  • Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or ranch for added flavor.
  • Author: Chef
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Category: Chicken, Main Dish
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat