Description
These Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on the classic comfort food. Juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and packed with flavor, they’re perfect for a quick meal or snack. With minimal oil and a short cook time, this recipe delivers guilt-free deliciousness in under 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Cooking spray or oil spray
- Optional: dipping sauces (ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue)
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken tenders and let them marinate for 15-30 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Remove chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, letting excess drip off. Coat each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Arrange the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
- Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, double-dip the chicken in buttermilk and breadcrumbs.
- To make gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Pair with a fresh salad or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3-4 chicken tenders
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 95mg