I love finding recipes that are quick, flavorful, and guilt-free, and this Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders recipe hits all those marks. From the first bite, the tangy lemon pairs perfectly with the zesty black pepper, creating a bright, savory flavor that makes me forget these are baked instead of fried. Cooking chicken tenders in the air fryer has been a game-changer for me—it’s fast, easy, and gives such a satisfying crispiness without all the extra oil.
Whenever I need a weeknight dinner that’s both simple and delicious, I turn to this recipe. The aroma of lemon and pepper filling the kitchen is enough to make my mouth water before the tenders are even ready. Plus, this recipe is versatile; you can serve these chicken tenders with a fresh salad, roasted veggies, or even a side of fries for a comforting, homemade meal.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken Tenders: These are the heart of the recipe. Using fresh, boneless, skinless chicken tenders ensures even cooking and a tender, juicy bite every time. If you can’t find tenders, chicken breasts cut into strips work just as well.
Lemon Zest and Juice: The lemon adds a bright, citrusy flavor that complements the pepper perfectly. Freshly grated zest and freshly squeezed juice are best for a more natural and vibrant taste.
Black Pepper: Freshly cracked black pepper delivers a pungent, aromatic kick that pairs beautifully with the lemon. It’s essential for that classic lemon pepper flavor.
Garlic Powder: This adds a subtle depth of flavor to the chicken, enhancing the citrusy and peppery notes without overpowering them.
Paprika: Just a hint of paprika brings a mild smokiness and vibrant color to your tenders, making them look as good as they taste.
Olive Oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the seasoning adhere to the chicken and promotes crispiness in the air fryer.
Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and brings out the natural juiciness of the chicken tenders.
Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 2 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ tsp salt
How to Make Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick better and ensures a crisp exterior in the air fryer.
Make the Seasoning Mix
In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, olive oil, and salt. Stir until it forms a smooth, fragrant mixture.
Coat the Chicken
Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl and pour the seasoning mix over them. Toss the tenders until each piece is evenly coated in the lemon pepper goodness.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. This step ensures the chicken cooks evenly and gets that crisp texture.
Cook the Chicken
Arrange the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown.
Serve and Enjoy
Remove the tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, a fresh salad, or roasted veggies.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed for even crispiness.
- Use fresh lemon juice and zest for the most vibrant flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to taste—some like a little more pepper or garlic.
- Let the chicken rest before serving to keep it juicy.
- Optional garnish: sprinkle with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before air frying for even cooking.
Can I make this recipe spicy?
Absolutely! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the seasoning mix.
What sides go well with lemon pepper chicken tenders?
Roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh garden salad are all excellent options.
Can I bake these in the oven instead?
Yes, bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.