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Crispy chicken tenders cooked in air fryer served with dipping sauce

Easy Crispy Chicken Tenders (Air Fryer Recipe)

Crispy chicken tenders made in the air fryer, golden on the outside and juicy inside. This easy recipe is perfect for a quick family dinner, ready in about 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

Marinade
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger optional
Coating
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs or panko for extra crispiness
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
For Serving (Optional)
  • Fresh parsley chopped
  • Dipping sauce ranch, garlic sauce, or honey mustard

Equipment

  • Air Fryer for crispy and even cooking
  • Mixing bowls for coating the chicken
  • Tongs for easy handling

Method
 

  1. Cut the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips and pat them dry with paper towels.
  2. In a large bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and ground ginger.
  3. Add the chicken strips to the marinade and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before cooking for the best flavor.
  4. In separate bowls, prepare the flour, beaten eggs, and the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
  5. Dip each chicken strip into flour, then eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture until evenly covered.
  6. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
  7. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil and place the chicken tenders in a single layer without overcrowding.
  8. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown, crispy, and fully cooked.
  9. Remove from the air fryer, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.