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- 1 lb chicken breast Cut the chicken into even strips. This size helps them cook evenly. - 1 cup buttermilk Buttermilk makes the chicken juicy and tender. It helps the coating stick too. - 1 cup all-purpose flour This is the base for your dry coating. It creates a strong layer. - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs Panko adds extra crunch. It creates a delightful texture when cooked. - 1 teaspoon garlic powder Garlic powder gives a great flavor. It enhances the overall taste. - 1 teaspoon onion powder Onion powder adds depth to the seasoning. It makes the chicken more savory. - 1 teaspoon paprika Paprika brings warmth and color. It makes the dish visually appealing. - 1 teaspoon dried oregano Oregano adds a hint of earthiness. It rounds out the flavor profile. - Salt and black pepper, to taste These are essential for seasoning. Adjust them to your preference. - Cooking spray (optional) This helps achieve an extra crisp. It prevents sticking in the air fryer. These ingredients come together to create a tasty and crispy dish. Each part plays a role in flavor and texture. For the full recipe, check the earlier section to get cooking! To start, we need to marinate the chicken. This step makes the meat juicy and flavorful. I use buttermilk for the marination. It adds a nice tang and helps tenderize the chicken. Place the chicken strips in a large bowl. Pour the buttermilk over them. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Cover your bowl with plastic wrap or a lid. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. You can also refrigerate it for up to 24 hours for even better flavor. Next, we prepare the dry coating. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Whisk them together until mixed well. This mix will give the chicken a delicious flavor. Now, set up the breading station. In a third bowl, put the panko breadcrumbs. This will be the final coating for that extra crunch. Now, we get to the fun part—cooking! First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for getting that crispy texture. Let it warm for about 5 minutes. While the air fryer heats, take the marinated chicken out of the buttermilk. Let the excess buttermilk drip off. First, dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, coating it fully. Then, dip it back into the buttermilk briefly. Finally, press it into the panko breadcrumbs to ensure a thick coating. Next, lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to help prevent sticking. Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Air fry the tenders for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking. They’ll be done when golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, carefully remove them from the air fryer. Let them rest for a couple of minutes on a plate. This helps the juices redistribute. For the full recipe, you can refer to the section above. To get the best crisp on your chicken tenders, follow these steps: - Coating Technique: Start by marinating your chicken in buttermilk. This tenderizes the meat and adds moisture. After marinating, coat each strip in seasoned flour, dip it back in the buttermilk, and then press it into panko breadcrumbs. This double-coating gives you that amazing crunch. - Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the coated chicken with cooking spray before air frying. This small step adds extra crispiness and helps the breadcrumbs brown nicely. Cooking in batches is key to great results: - Avoid Overcrowding: Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer. If you crowd them, they will steam instead of fry. This means less crispiness. - Batch Efficiency: If you have a lot of chicken to cook, do it in batches. While one batch cooks, you can prepare the next. This keeps everything moving smoothly and ensures each piece gets the attention it needs. Following these tips will help you create the crispiest, most flavorful chicken tenders, just like the ones in the Full Recipe. {{image_4}} You can change the taste of your chicken tenders easily. Try using different spices and herbs. Here are some ideas: - Cajun Seasoning: For a spicy kick, mix in Cajun spice. - Italian Herbs: Use dried basil, thyme, or rosemary for an Italian twist. - Lemon Zest: Add zest for a fresh, bright flavor. For breading, you can swap the panko breadcrumbs. Here are some alternatives: - Cornmeal: This gives a crunchy texture and a unique flavor. - Crushed Crackers: Use any savory crackers for a tasty coating. - Ground Oats: This is a great option for a healthier choice. If you want a healthier version of chicken tenders, you have great options. For whole grain coatings, consider using: - Whole Wheat Flour: This adds fiber and nutrients. - Oat Flour: Ground oats can be a great gluten-free choice. For low-carb options, try these substitutes: - Almond Flour: This works well for a nutty flavor and keeps it low-carb. - Coconut Flour: Use this for a hint of sweetness and fewer carbs. These variations not only make your meal healthier but also keep it fun and exciting! For more ideas, check the Full Recipe and get creative in your kitchen. After cooking your air fryer chicken tenders, you might have some left. To keep them fresh, follow these tips: - Cool Down: Let the chicken tenders cool to room temperature first. - Use Airtight Containers: Store them in airtight containers to keep moisture out. - Refrigerate: Place the containers in the fridge. They will stay good for up to four days. I recommend using glass containers. They don’t stain and are easy to clean. If you want to store them longer, consider freezing. When you want to enjoy your chicken tenders again, reheating them right is key. Here’s how: - Air Fryer Method: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders in a single layer and heat for about 5-7 minutes. This keeps them crispy. - Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the tenders on a baking sheet and heat for 10-15 minutes. To avoid sogginess, skip the microwave. The microwave makes them soft and chewy. For best results, always reheat in the air fryer or oven. For the full recipe, check the instructions above and enjoy your crispy air fryer chicken tenders! Air fryer chicken tenders can last in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts for air fryer chicken tenders. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time. Cook them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15 to 18 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Always check the internal temperature. It should be at least 165°F (75°C) for safe eating. Chicken tenders pair well with many sauces. Here are a few tasty options: - Honey mustard - Barbecue sauce - Ranch dressing - Sweet and sour sauce - Sriracha mayo These dips add fun flavors and enhance your chicken tenders. To check if chicken tenders are done, use a meat thermometer. The inside should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don't have a thermometer, cut one open. The meat should be white and the juices clear. Avoid undercooking to ensure safety. Enjoy your crispy air fryer chicken tenders! You now have a clear path to prepare tasty air fryer chicken tenders. We covered the ingredients you need, how to marinate the chicken, and the steps for breading and cooking. Remember to use the tips for crispiness and avoid overcrowding your air fryer. Don’t forget the fun variations and how to store leftovers to keep them fresh. Enjoy making this dish your own, and savor the delicious results with your favorite dipping sauces. Happy cooking!

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Discover the ultimate Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe that guarantees a crunchy and succulent bite every time! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create flavorful chicken strips marinated in buttermilk and coated with a delicious blend of seasonings and panko breadcrumbs. Perfect for dinner or a snack, these tenders are a crowd-pleaser. Click through to explore the full recipe and elevate your mealtime today!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken breast, cut into even strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for that unbeatable crunch)

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and black pepper, to taste

Cooking spray (optional, for a little extra crisp)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, add the chicken strips and pour in the buttermilk. Make sure each piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.

    Prepare the Seasoned Coatings: In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and pepper until evenly combined. This will be your dry breading mixture.

      Set Up the Breading Station: In a third bowl, place the panko breadcrumbs, setting it aside for the final coating step.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: While you prepare the chicken, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Allow it to warm up for about 5 minutes, which helps create that crispy texture.

          Coat the Chicken Strips: After marinating, take each chicken strip out of the buttermilk, letting any excess drip off. First, dredge it in the seasoned flour, fully coating the strip. Dip it back into the buttermilk briefly, followed by pressing it into the panko breadcrumbs to ensure a thick coating for a double-crunch effect.

            Prepare the Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to minimize sticking.

              Arrange for Cooking: Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the basket; it's preferable to air fry in batches to ensure even cooking.

                Cook to Perfection: Air fry the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through cooking, flip each tender to achieve golden brown crispness on both sides. They are done when they are cooked through and golden.

                  Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes on a plate, which allows the juices to redistribute.

                    Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 42-52 minutes | Servings: 4

                      - Presentation Tips: Arrange the cooked chicken tenders on a rustic wooden platter. Serve alongside vibrant dipping sauces like honey mustard or barbecue sauce. For a pop of color, sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken tenders or place a few sprigs on the platter. Enjoy the crispy goodness!