Go Back
mid1998_Air_Fryer_Chicken_Tenders_-v_7_2a94ebd5-5d13-48f4-aafb-9c69c828dac9_3.png (1)

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Crispy and flavorful chicken tenders made effortlessly in an air fryer, perfect for a weeknight meal without the deep fryer mess.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 4 hours
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 11 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Marinade
  • 1 cup Buttermilk For tenderizing chicken
For the Breading
  • 1 cup All-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup Cornstarch Adds extra crispiness
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning, low sodium
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Black pepper
  • 1 large Egg For egg wash
  • 1 tbsp Water
  • 1 cup Seasoned bread crumbs
  • 1 cup Crushed cornflakes Provides crunch
For the Chicken
  • 1.5 lbs Chicken tenderloins Can substitute with chicken breasts cut into strips

Method
 

Marination
  1. Place chicken tenderloins in a bowl and pour buttermilk over them. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for best results.
Prepare Breading Stations
  1. In the first bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. In the second bowl, whisk egg and water until combined.
  3. In the third bowl, mix seasoned bread crumbs with crushed cornflakes.
Dredging
  1. Remove chicken from buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Pat dry with a paper towel.
  2. Dredge each piece in the flour mixture, then in egg wash, followed by pressing into the breadcrumb mixture.
Cooking
  1. Spray each coated chicken piece lightly with cooking spray.
  2. Preheat air fryer to 390°F for a few minutes.
  3. Arrange chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Air fry for 11 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  4. Check doneness; should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Notes

Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, BBQ, or honey mustard. They can be paired with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. For storing leftovers, place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.