There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy chicken tender—juicy on the inside, golden and crunchy on the outside. But deep-frying? Not always the healthiest (or easiest) option. That’s why I fell in love with making Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Tenders. They deliver all the crunch without the extra oil, and the best part? They’re ready in just minutes!
As someone who loves cooking but also values simplicity, I’ve tested this recipe multiple times to ensure it’s foolproof. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, making a quick family dinner, or craving a protein-packed snack, these tenders never disappoint. Plus, they’re versatile—pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, toss them in a salad, or enjoy them straight out of the air fryer!
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken breast tenders: These are the star of the dish—lean, tender, and quick-cooking. You can also slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips if you can’t find pre-cut tenders.
Flour: A light coating of all-purpose flour helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick, ensuring an extra-crispy exterior.
Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the glue that binds the flour and breadcrumbs to the chicken, creating that perfect crunchy layer.
Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, giving the tenders an irresistible crunch.
Seasonings (salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika): A simple blend of spices enhances the flavor of the chicken without overpowering it. Feel free to adjust based on your taste!
Cooking spray or oil: A light spritz helps the breadcrumbs crisp up evenly in the air fryer.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders (or sliced chicken breasts)
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Cooking spray or 1 tbsp olive oil
How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Breast Tenders
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels—this helps the coating stick better. If using whole chicken breasts, slice them into even strips (about 1-inch thick) for uniform cooking.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Stations
In three separate shallow bowls, place the flour (mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika) in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs in the third. This assembly line makes coating easier.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dredge each tender in flour (shaking off excess), dip in egg, then press into panko until fully coated. For extra crispiness, double-dip in egg and panko.
Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it heat for 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
Step 5: Air Fry the Tenders
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil, then arrange the tenders in a single layer (avoid overcrowding). Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Let the tenders rest for 2 minutes before serving. Pair with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or your favorite dip!
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Don’t skip preheating—it makes a big difference in texture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without drying out the chicken.
- For extra flavor, add grated Parmesan or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumbs.
- Work in batches if needed—overcrowding leads to uneven cooking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat in the air fryer for best results.
FAQs
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives a lighter, crispier texture.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Swap flour for almond flour and use gluten-free panko.
Do I need to flip the tenders?
Yes, flipping ensures even browning on both sides.
Can I freeze these before cooking?
Yes! Freeze breaded tenders on a tray, then transfer to a bag. Cook from frozen, adding 2-3 extra minutes.
Why are my tenders not crispy?
Make sure your air fryer is preheated and avoid overcrowding the basket. A light spray of oil also helps.
Enjoy your crispy, guilt-free chicken tenders—they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen!