Air Fryer Chicken Tenders | Nuggets

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are delicious and extra crispy. A fraction of the fat and calories of fried chicken tenders. The breading is also gluten-free.

Air fryers are a miraculous new invention. If you haven’t made the leap to air fryer cooking, now is the time to do so. Air frying takes a fraction of the time that baking does, and the results you get are just as, if not more, effective at achieving that ever-elusive crispy crust that we all long for in fried foods.

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We love foods that are cooked in the air fryer. Although recipes require a bit of fine-tuning, once you get the hang of your new air fryer, you can apply things that you have learned through creating other dishes to new foods. Each air fryer is different, so at first, constantly monitor your food so that it does not burn.

Are Air-Fried Chicken Tenders Healthy?

Air-fried chicken tenders will have considerably less fat than those cooked in oil: 4 grams versus about 20 grams. The key to using your air fryer to make meals healthier for your family is to remember that the keyword in “air-fried” is “fried.”

Although air-fried foods require very little fat to get crispy, they are still breaded, so they are less healthy than foods broiled without added carbohydrates.

If you don’t have an air fryer, a great alternative is Garlic Scape, Lemon Grilled Chicken Tenders. They’re grilled instead of breaded, giving you a lighter, fresher option with big flavor and less added fat.

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Are These Tenders Gluten-Free?

Yes. These chicken tenders are both gluten-free and dairy-free/lactose-free for those of you on special diets. I prefer them to other breadings because the cornflakes get extra crunchy.

Don’t buy packaged cornflake crumbs, either. All you have to do to make your own is grind cornflake cereal in your food processor for a few moments. Store them in an airtight bag in your pantry, and you will have homemade breading at your fingertips.

Ingredients You Need

• Fresh chicken tenders or chicken nuggets- The main protein. Choose even-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate.
• Crushed cornflakes – Grind your own in a food processor for a cheaper option and better control over texture.
• Flour – Helps the coating stick to the chicken and creates the base layer for breading.
• Eggs – Acts as the binder so the coating adheres properly to the chicken.
• Paprika – Adds mild spice and a warm color to the breading.
• Black pepper – Freshly cracked is best for a stronger, fresher flavor.
• Kosher salt or sea salt – Enhances all the flavors and keeps the seasoning balanced.

Here’s How to Make Them

Preheat the air fryer to 425°F. Cook for 5-8 minutes on the first side until browned. Flip with tongs and continue to air fry another 5-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Tools That Make This Recipe Work

If you don’t already have these, this is where most people struggle.

• Air fryer – The key to getting crispy chicken tenders without deep frying. Without one, you’ll need to adjust the recipe for the oven and won’t get quite the same texture.
• Tongs – Make it easy to flip and remove the tenders without knocking off the breading. Using a fork can tear the coating and make a mess.
• Bowls – Needed for setting up the breading station. Without separate bowls, coating the chicken can quickly become messy and uneven.
• Food processor – Helps turn ingredients into fine crumbs for an even coating. If the crumbs are too large, the breading may not stick as well.
• Instant Read Thermometer – The easiest way to know when the chicken is fully cooked. Chicken can look done on the outside while still needing more time inside.

Tips for Your Success

• Pat the chicken dry before breading. Excess moisture can keep the coating from sticking properly and prevent the tenders from getting crispy.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Leave a little space between the tenders so the hot air can circulate and crisp up all sides evenly.
• Spray the breaded tenders lightly with cooking spray. This helps create a more golden, crunchy coating.
• Flip the tenders halfway through cooking. Turning them once ensures both sides cook evenly and develop the same crispy texture.
• Check the internal temperature before serving. Chicken tenders are done when they reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. This prevents undercooking and helps avoid drying them out from overcooking.

What Dipping Sauces Go Well with Chicken Tenders?

• Honey mustard Dipping Sauce
• Comeback Sauce
• BBQ sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Classic bleu cheese dressing

Now tell me you wouldn’t rather serve these to your kids instead of going to Mickey D’s!

You don’t even have to feel bad serving them these chicken tenders and chicken nuggets with a nice salad and some sweet potato fries!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes. Simply slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips that are about the same size as chicken tenders so they cook evenly.

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes. Cook the tenders as directed, let them cool completely, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to bring back the crispy coating.

How do I know when the chicken is done?
The safest way is to use an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is fully cooked when the thickest part reaches 165°F (74°C).

Other Delicious Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Pork Loin
• Crispiest Air Fryer Frozen Corn Dogs
• Air Fryer Doughnuts
• Beet Chips in the Air Fryer
• Air Fryer Chicken Wings
• Air Fryer Meatballs
• Air Fryer French Fries

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That’s how easy it is to make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Thanks for stopping by today!

Enjoy! And have fun cooking!

Xoxo,

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Originally published 4/1/19 Updated 1/25/2022.