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!
Best chicken ever!! I am not exaggerating!
Thank you!!
Can you use frozen tenders? If so, what would the adjustments for time and temperature?
We would try 360°F for about 15 minutes, or until 165°F internally.
So easy to make and delicious as well. The whole family loved them!
That’s awesome!!
Perfection
Thanks for sharing!
This recipe is a keeper! I made this recipe last night for dinner and it was a huge hit with the whole family! Instead of using butter, though, I lightly coated the chicken strips with lowfat mayo, then dredged in the panko mixture. As the author suggested, I cooked the chicken strips without turning. They cooked perfectly, and turned out not just delicious, but BEAUTIFUL too!
Thank you for sharing, Sue!
These came out so good, both my kids enjoyed them so that’s a win for me. For some reason my Air Fryer (Panasonic 4 in 1) doesn’t allow you to choose a temperature when using the air fryer option. I did cook a bit longer because mine didn’t seem done and flipped them over the last 4 minutes. Super easy delicious recipe
Looks amazing, Jaime!
I really wanted to like these more than I did. Anything with 6 tablespoons of butter gets a nod from me! ;) That said, the coating wasn’t as crispy and didn’t stick as well as others I’ve tried. I’m still an air fryer newbie so I may give these another go, with adjustments. Thanks for the recipe!
I am sorry this didn’t quite work out!
So tasty and easy to make. I added some Italian seasoning and a dash of cayenne pepper, plus cut the salt in half. They turned out perfectly and will become a regular on the rotation.
They look amazing!
This recipe was extremely easy! It was a quick meal solution! 12 minutes in my air fryer- crispy golden brown and juicy in the middle!!
The only thing I will do different next time is omit the salt, I used way less than it called for and it was still not needed. Parmesan cheese takes away the need for salt. Aside from that ~ I will definitely make these again!! Kids will love them!
Looks delicious, Christine!
This recipe was so easy, and made my house smell amazing! Dredging in butter is genius!
Thanks for stopping by, Jenna!