I’ve always loved the idea of cooking meals that feel indulgent but are surprisingly quick to make, and these air fryer teriyaki chicken tenders are the perfect example. The first time I tried them, I was amazed at how the chicken came out crispy on the outside while staying incredibly juicy on the inside—all without having to deep-fry a single piece. It’s like the air fryer does the magic for you, letting the rich, sticky teriyaki glaze shine without overwhelming the flavor.
What makes this recipe even better is how easy it is to tweak. I often add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of fresh green onions at the end for extra flavor and visual appeal. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a fun weekend treat, these tenders always hit the spot and never last long at my table.
What You Need To Make This Recipe
Chicken tenders: Tender, juicy, and naturally quick-cooking, these are the star of the recipe. Using chicken tenders ensures even cooking and a perfect bite every time.
Teriyaki sauce: Sweet, savory, and packed with umami, teriyaki sauce gives these tenders their signature flavor. Choose a high-quality sauce or make your own for a fresher, more vibrant taste.
Olive oil: A light coating of olive oil helps the chicken crisp up in the air fryer and prevents sticking while enhancing the flavor without making it greasy.
Garlic powder: This adds a subtle, aromatic kick to the tenders, complementing the teriyaki glaze beautifully.
Salt and pepper: Simple but essential, these seasonings bring out the natural flavor of the chicken and balance the sweetness of the sauce.
Sesame seeds (optional): Toasted sesame seeds are a classic garnish, adding both texture and visual appeal to the finished dish.
Green onions (optional): Thinly sliced green onions give a fresh, slightly sharp contrast to the rich teriyaki glaze, making the dish pop.
Ingredients List
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- ½ cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional)
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
How to Make Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken Tenders
Prepare the Chicken
Start by patting your chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures they crisp up nicely in the air fryer.
Season the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, drizzle the chicken with olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Toss until each piece is evenly coated.
Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes. A preheated basket ensures your chicken cooks evenly and crisps beautifully.
Cook the Chicken
Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through for an even golden finish.
Add Teriyaki Sauce
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a bowl and toss with teriyaki sauce until fully coated. You can also brush the sauce directly on the chicken if you prefer a lighter coating.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle sesame seeds and sliced green onions over the chicken for added flavor and presentation. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Tips for Making this Recipe
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give each piece space so the air circulates and crisps the chicken evenly.
- Pat chicken dry: Removing excess moisture ensures maximum crispiness.
- Customize your sauce: Add a splash of honey, sriracha, or ginger to your teriyaki sauce for a personal twist.
- Check internal temperature: Chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked.
- Reheat carefully: Air fry leftover tenders at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes to maintain crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but increase the cooking time by 3–5 minutes and ensure they are fully thawed before tossing in the sauce.
Can I make my own teriyaki sauce?
Absolutely! A simple mixture of soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger works beautifully.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for best results.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, but cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The sweet-savory flavor and crispy texture make it a hit with children and adults alike.