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Chicken tenders have long held a special place in the hearts of many, transcending age and cultural boundaries. Their versatility makes them an ideal choice for a variety of meals, whether it’s a casual family dinner, a gathering with friends, or even a quick snack. The joy of biting into a tender, juicy piece of chicken enveloped in a crispy coating is hard to match. Now, with the advent of air frying, this beloved dish can be enjoyed with a healthier twist, making it even more appealing.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Honey Mustard

Discover the joy of cooking with this recipe for crispy air fryer chicken tenders paired with a tangy honey mustard dipping sauce. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional frying, thanks to the air fryer. With just a few quality ingredients and simple steps, you can create a dish that's full of flavor and satisfying crunch. Ideal for family dinners or snacks, these chicken tenders are sure to impress!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1 teaspoon dried thyme

½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For the Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce:

¼ cup Dijon mustard

¼ cup honey

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.

    Prepare the Breading Station: In one shallow dish, place the all-purpose flour. In another dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs, dried oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

      Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken tenders from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour first, shaking off any excess, then dip it back into the buttermilk, and finally coat thoroughly in the panko breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.

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

          Air Fry the Tenders: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer (you may need to work in batches). Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with oil for extra crispiness.

            Cook the Chicken: Air fry the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

              Prepare the Honey Mustard Sauce: While the chicken cooks, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl until smooth. Adjust the flavors according to your taste.

                Serve: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, let them rest for a minute. Serve them hot alongside the honey mustard dipping sauce. Enjoy your crispy chicken tenders!

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 30 minutes | 4 servings