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Chicken tenders have long been a beloved staple in households across the globe, adored for their tender bite and versatility. Whether served as a simple weeknight meal, a party snack, or an easy lunch option, chicken tenders are a favorite for both kids and adults alike. They can be enjoyed plain, tossed in sauces, or paired with various sides, making them an incredibly adaptable dish. However, traditional methods of preparation often involve deep frying, leading to a heavier meal that may not align with everyone’s health goals.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Discover the joy of making Crunchy Delight Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, a healthier take on a family favorite! These tender strips are marinated in buttermilk for maximum juiciness and coated in a flavorful blend of spices and crispy panko breadcrumbs. Enjoy the satisfying crunch without the guilt of deep frying. Perfect for weeknight dinners or parties, serve them with a tasty dipping sauce for a delightful meal that everyone will love. Elevate your cooking and get ready to impress with this easy recipe!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

½ teaspoon onion powder

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For the Dipping Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken:

    - In a mixing bowl, place the chicken tenders and pour in the buttermilk. Ensure the chicken is fully submerged. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for even better flavor).

      Prepare the Breading Station:

        - In one shallow bowl, add the flour, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.

          - In a second shallow bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs.

            Bread the Chicken Tenders:

              - Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. One at a time, take a chicken tender and dip it in the flour mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.

                - Shake off the excess flour, then dip it back into the buttermilk to wet it again, and finally coat it in the panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere the crumbs.

                  - Place the breaded chicken tenders on a plate and repeat with the remaining pieces.

                    Air Frying:

                      - Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

                        - Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket (you may need to do this in batches).

                          - Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking oil to promote crispiness.

                            - Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 75°C).

                              Make the Dipping Sauce:

                                - While the chicken cooks, combine the mayonnaise, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Mix until smooth and taste, adjusting the seasoning or sweetness as desired.

                                  Serve:

                                    - Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve warm with the dipping sauce on the side.

                                      Prep Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 4