Quick and easy to make, these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are one tasty bite! Coated in crispy Panko breadcrumbs, they are ready to serve in less than 30 minutes.
Why We Love This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe
Time to get ready for the most delicious chicken tenders! Super quick and easy to cook in your air fryer, they are a real crowd-pleasing appetizer!
- Healthier. Get that crispy deep deep-fried texture and flavor without the need for all the oil.
- Quick and Easy. Ready to enjoy in less than 30 minutes and made with simple ingredients.
- Kid-Friendly. These are a great appetizer or main meal that your picky eaters will love.
Variations on Air Fryer Chicken Fingers
You can bread these chicken tenders with classic breadcrumbs or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for a different flavor. Try swapping the Parmesan for asiago or pecorino for a different flavor.
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How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover air fryer chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 375°F air fryer for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How to Freeze
Freeze air fryer chicken tenders in a single layer on a lined baking sheet until solid, about 1-2 hours. Transfer to an airtight container or Ziplock bag to store for up to 3 months. Let thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
These air fryer chicken tenders are a great appetizer to serve with your favorite dips like Chick-fil-A sauce, ranch, or BBQ. They are also a great addition to serve as part of a quick weeknight meal with your favorite potato and veggie sides. Try them with Shoestring Fries, BBQ Baked Beans, Garlic Parmesan Fries, or Potato Salad.
More Air Fryer Chicken Recipes To Try
- Air Fryer Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Fried Chicken
- Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
- Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan
- Air Fryer BBQ Chicken
- Air Fryer Chicken Breast
- Air Fryer Chicken Thighs
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How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Step by Step
Prep the Butter: Add 6 tablespoons of melted unsalted butter to a shallow bowl.
Make the Breading: In a second shallow bowl, mix together 1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup of finely shredded Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, ½ teaspoon of ground black pepper, and ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
Dredge the Tenders: Dredge 1½ pounds of chicken tenders. First, dip a tender in the melted butter then dredge in the Panko breading. Set aside on a plate or sheet pan and repeat with all tenders.
Air Fry the Tenders: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Transfer breaded tenders to the air fryer in a single layer (cooking in batches, if needed). Air fry at 400°F for 11-13 minutes. The tenders are done when they are fully cooked (165°F) and golden brown. Repeat with remaining tenders. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
Prepared exactly to recipe and they were really easy and good! Didn’t get a chance to take a pic because they are gone! My husband dipped in blue cheese dressing, but I ate plain.
Made it tonight fantastic I have some left for tomorrow they are way better rolled in butter than oil .
Those look great, Marlene! Thanks so much for sharing!
What is the best way to reheat so they don’t dry out?
Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for about 4 minutes until warmed through!
So very easy and delicious. These will be a staple in my home. Thanks for a great recipe.
Loved this.. So easy and delicious! I subbed dry ranch dressing for the salt pepper and garlic powder. This recipe is a winner for sure!!
Awesome recipe!!!
Came out perfect!!