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Delicious, crispy, and tender, air-fried chicken tenders are a family favorite that combines convenience with flavor. This recipe for Crunchy Air Fried Chicken Tenders offers a healthier alternative to traditional frying, ensuring you can enjoy this classic dish without the guilt. With a simple marinade and a flavorful panko breading, these chicken tenders are perfect for dinner, game day snacks, or a quick meal. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, preparation method, and tips for achieving the perfect crunch, all while highlighting the benefits of air frying.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce

Discover the perfect recipe for Crunchy Air Fried Chicken Tenders that your family will adore! These delicious tenders are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, offering a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Learn how to marinate chicken breasts in buttermilk for exceptional flavor and coat them in panko for that extra crunch. Ideal for dinner, snacks, or gatherings, this dish is a must-try for all chicken lovers. Enjoy easy preparation and guilt-free indulgence!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

½ teaspoon onion powder

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko bread crumbs

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For the Dipping Sauce:

½ cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight in the refrigerator for best results).

    Prepare the Breading Station: In two separate shallow bowls, place flour in one bowl and a mixture of panko bread crumbs and Italian seasoning in the second bowl.

      Bread the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each strip in the flour first, then dip it back into the buttermilk briefly, and finally coat it in the panko mixture, pressing slightly to adhere. Place the breaded chicken tenders on a plate or a wire rack.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

          Arrange and Spray: Lightly spray the basket of your air fryer with cooking spray. Place the chicken tenders in the basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd. Spray the tops of the tenders lightly with cooking spray.

            Air Fry: Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Adjust the time as needed depending on the thickness of your tenders.

              Prepare the Dipping Sauce: While the chicken is cooking, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

                Serve: Once the chicken tenders are cooked and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve hot with the dipping sauce on the side.

                  Prep Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes | Servings: 4