Description
These crispy air fryer chicken tenders are a lightning-fast, lunchbox-friendly meal that delivers a crunchy, golden crust without the grease of deep frying. Perfect for busy weeknights, they cook in just 12 minutes and stay crisp even after sitting in a bento box.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 pounds chicken breast tenders
- 1 large egg
- 1 tablespoon water or milk
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Thaw frozen chicken tenders completely if necessary and pat them dry with paper towels to ensure breading sticks.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper; one with whisked egg and water; and one with Panko breadcrumbs.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess. Dip into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the Panko breadcrumbs to coat.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer without overlapping. Spray the tops generously with cooking oil.
- Air fry for 6 minutes, then flip the tenders and spray the other side with oil. Cook for another 5-6 minutes until golden brown and crispy, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken tenders rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute.
Notes
Do not overcrowd the basket to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness. For extra crunch, double dip the chicken in egg and Panko. Let tenders cool completely before packing in a lunchbox to prevent sogginess. Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes; do not microwave.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 350
- Fat: 12
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 25
Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, crispy chicken, quick lunch, school lunch ideas, healthy fried chicken, air fryer recipes, weeknight dinner