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In the realm of comfort food, few dishes are as universally loved as chicken tenders. These golden-brown delights, often served alongside an array of dipping sauces, have a way of bringing people together, whether at family dinners, casual gatherings, or parties. The satisfying crunch of well-cooked chicken tenders paired with the tender, juicy meat inside is an experience that transcends generations.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Discover the joy of making crispy air fryer chicken tenders that are delightfully crunchy on the outside while remaining juicy inside! This recipe transforms a beloved comfort food into a lighter option with minimal oil. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, you'll learn tips for marinating, coating, and cooking your chicken to perfection, along with delicious dipping sauce suggestions. Embrace healthier eating without compromising on flavor and enjoy a meal that pleases everyone!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as oregano, basil, or thyme)

Cooking spray or olive oil spray for enhanced crispiness

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders to the marinade, ensuring they are completely submerged. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight to achieve maximum tenderness and flavor infusion.

    Prepare the Breading: In a shallow dish, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

      Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Dredge each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating adheres to the chicken. Transfer the coated tenders to a plate and set aside.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes, ensuring it's hot and ready for optimal cooking.

          Arrange in the Air Fryer: Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking; you may need to work in batches. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray to enhance their crispiness during cooking.

            Cook the Chicken Tenders: Air fry the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The tenders are done when they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

              Serve & Enjoy: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue, and savor the delightful crispy texture!

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

                  15 minutes | 1 hour 15 minutes (including marination) | Serves 4