Why You’ll Love These Tenders
Imagine juicy, tender chicken coated in a perfectly crispy crust—all done in just about 20 minutes! These homemade chicken tenders beat anything from the store, offering that irresistible crunch and warm aroma that makes your kitchen smell just right. Plus, they’re super easy and use simple pantry staples, so you can whip them up on a busy weeknight without breaking a sweat.
A Sensory Delight
Get ready for a burst of crunch with a tender, juicy bite, complemented by a savory, golden aroma that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Trust us, the flavorful punch here is nothing short of addictive—and no deep fryer needed, just your trusty air fryer to do all the magic.
Think of this as your new go-to snack or main—perfect with a side of zesty dips or a fresh salad. And hey, if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try adding a touch of your favorite spice mix? Ready to make some crispy magic happen? Let’s get cooking!
Homemade Crispy Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the coating mixture by whisking together the flour, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large shallow dish.2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Cut the chicken breasts into evenly-sized strips and marinate them in buttermilk in a covered dish for 10 minutes, ensuring they are fully submerged.2 chicken breasts, 1 cup buttermilk
- Remove chicken strips from buttermilk, then dredge each strip in the flour mixture, pressing lightly to adhere and ensuring an even coating.2 chicken breasts
- Fill a second shallow dish with panko breadcrumbs. Dip the coated chicken strips into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to create a uniform and crispy coating.1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Arrange the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in an air fryer basket. Drizzle or spray with olive oil to promote crispiness.2 tablespoons olive oil
- Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 minutes or air fry at 400°F for the same duration, turning once if necessary, until the tenders are golden brown and crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
These air fryer chicken tenders are downright irresistible—crispy, juicy, and made in a flash! Serve them with a tangy honey mustard or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra punch of flavor. Got a fun twist you love? Drop a comment below and share your tasty ideas. Let’s keep the kitchen fun and flavorful together!