There’s something so satisfying about juicy, perfectly seasoned chicken tenders that are crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. And when they’re cooked in the air fryer? Even better. I’ve been using my air fryer to create fast, flavorful meals that don’t require a ton of oil or mess—and these grilled-style chicken tenders are one of my favorite go-to dishes. Whether I’m meal prepping for the week or just need a protein-packed dinner on the fly, this recipe never fails.
What I love most is how quick and versatile this dish is. The tenders take on flavor beautifully, and they come out with those classic grilled marks and golden edges that make them feel like they were cooked outdoors on a barbecue. Plus, the air fryer locks in all that juiciness. If you’ve been looking for a simple yet delicious way to enjoy chicken tenders without breading, this is it.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken tenders:
You’ll want fresh or thawed chicken tenders—those smaller strips of chicken breast that cook quickly and stay tender. They’re lean, easy to portion, and soak up marinades like a dream.
Olive oil:
A little olive oil goes a long way in keeping the chicken juicy and helping the seasonings stick. It also helps create that slightly crispy grilled texture on the outside.
Garlic powder:
Garlic powder brings a warm, savory depth to the chicken without the harshness of raw garlic. It evenly distributes flavor without burning in the air fryer.
Paprika:
Smoky, sweet, and earthy, paprika gives the tenders a rich golden color and subtle kick. Use smoked paprika if you want that “grilled” flavor turned up a notch.
Dried oregano:
This herb adds a Mediterranean flair with its slightly peppery and earthy notes. It pairs beautifully with garlic and olive oil to round out the flavor.
Salt and black pepper:
These basics are essential. Salt enhances every other flavor, while black pepper adds just enough bite to keep things interesting.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
How to Make Air Fryer Grilled Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Preheat your air fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 5 minutes. This ensures the tenders start cooking immediately and develop a good sear.
Step 2: Season the chicken
In a large bowl, toss the chicken tenders with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Make sure each piece is evenly coated for the best flavor.
Step 3: Arrange in the air fryer
Place the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd them—if needed, cook in batches to make sure they cook evenly.
Step 4: Air fry until golden
Cook for 9–11 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown on the outside and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The outside should look slightly charred, like grilled chicken.
Step 5: Let rest and serve
Once done, remove the tenders and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices settle so they stay moist. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce or side.
Tips for Making This Recipe
- Use similar-sized tenders so they cook evenly. If some are larger, pound them gently to an even thickness.
- Marinate longer if you have the time—30 minutes in the fridge will deepen the flavor even more.
- Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow proper air circulation. A crowded basket leads to steaming, not grilling.
- Flip halfway for even browning on both sides.
- Customize the seasoning with chili flakes, lemon zest, or a dash of cumin for a flavor twist.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes! Just slice the breasts into strips similar in size to tenders for even cooking.
Do I need to spray the air fryer basket?
It’s a good idea to lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray to prevent sticking, especially if your air fryer isn’t nonstick.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Definitely. They reheat well in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes or can be enjoyed cold in salads and wraps.
What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?
Ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, tzatziki, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon are all great options!
Can I freeze them after cooking?
Yes! Let them cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a bag or container. Reheat straight from frozen in the air fryer.