Air Fried Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you crave crispy, juicy chicken tenders but want to keep things light and lightning-fast, these Air Fried Chicken Tenders are about to become your new weeknight go-to. With a secret marinade and the crunchiest coating ever—no deep frying required—this recipe gives you all the flavor and texture of your favorite restaurant tenders, without the grease or fuss.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about making Air Fried Chicken Tenders at home is just how easy—and familiar—the ingredients are. Each addition plays a special role, from the juiciness-boosting marinade to the irresistible crunchy coating that browns beautifully in the air fryer.

• Chicken breast tenders (1.5 pounds): Opt for fresh, uniform-sized tenders so they cook up evenly and juicy throughout.
• Pickle juice (1 cup): This is the secret weapon! It adds tangy flavor and helps tenderize the chicken, keeping it moist.
• Buttermilk (1/2 cup): Balances out the pickle’s acidity and delivers creamy moisture for perfect tenderness.
• Almond flour (1/2 cup): Provides a delicate, nutty undertone and helps the breading stick without getting heavy.
• Panko (1/2 cup): Japanese-style breadcrumbs deliver maximum crunch and that signature airy crispiness.
• Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses each bite with warm, aromatic flavor that plays perfectly with the tangy marinade.
• Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds vibrant color and a hint of subtle smokiness.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances all the lovely flavors and seasons the tenders just right.
• Mayonnaise (2 tablespoons): Brushing on a thin layer helps the coating stick, and it creates a golden, crunchy finish—trust me, this step is magical!

Variations

This recipe is endlessly adaptable, so don’t be afraid to put your own spin on it! Whether you have dietary restrictions or just want to switch up the flavor profile, Air Fried Chicken Tenders love a little creativity.

• Make It Gluten-Free: Replace panko with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs and confirm your pickle juice is gluten-free.
• Add Some Heat: Mix a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce into the marinade for a spicy kick!
• Swap Almond Flour: Use regular all-purpose flour or a different nut flour if almond isn’t your thing (hazelnut flour is lovely, too).
• Dairy-Free Twist: Use unsweetened non-dairy milk with a squeeze of lemon juice in place of buttermilk for a tangy marinade without dairy.

How to Make Air Fried Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Begin by whisking the pickle juice and buttermilk together in a large bowl. Nestle in your chicken tenders so each piece is fully submerged in that tangy, creamy goodness. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (but for the juiciest, most flavorful Air Fried Chicken Tenders, 1-2 hours is absolutely worth it). The longer they sit, the better the flavor!

Step 2: Mix Up the Breading

In a separate medium bowl, combine the almond flour, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and salt. Toss it well with a fork or whisk to ensure every element of your crispy coating is perfectly mingled.

Step 3: Prep and Coat the Chicken

Once the chicken is marinated, preheat your air fryer to 375°F. Pat the tenders dry ever so gently with a paper towel. Brush a super-thin layer of mayonnaise on both sides—it helps the breading cling and results in that restaurant-worthy golden crust. Dunk each tender into the breading mix, pressing gently so every nook and cranny gets a good coating. Shake off the excess, and you’re ready for the fryer.

Step 4: Air Fry Until Crispy

Arrange the tenders in a single layer on your air fryer tray or basket. Give them a light spritz with olive oil or cooking spray to encourage extra crunch. Air fry in batches if you need to, cooking the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until the tenders are cooked through and the outside is gorgeously golden. The aroma will drive everyone in the house wild—trust me!

Step 5: Serve and Dip

When your Air Fried Chicken Tenders are done, serve them piping hot with your favorite sauces—Chik-Fil-A style, BBQ, or good old ketchup. Watch them disappear faster than you can say “seconds!”

How to Serve Air Fried Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Finish your Air Fried Chicken Tenders with a shower of freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of flaky sea salt, or a dash of smoked paprika—a little bit of garnish not only adds color, but a burst of freshness and flavor that lifts each bite.

Side Dishes

Pair your crisp chicken strips with fluffy mashed potatoes, crunchy coleslaw, or a pile of sweet potato fries for the ultimate comfort meal. A fresh green salad or roasted veggies also play perfectly against the savory crunch!

Creative Ways to Present

Try tucking tenders inside a warm pita with lettuce and sauce for a chicken tender wrap, slice onto a big salad bowl for added protein, or skewer them for kid-friendly “chicken on a stick” fun at parties.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Air Fried Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They’ll keep their flavor and texture surprisingly well, making them perfect for easy lunches or quick snacks.

Freezing

If you want to freeze cooked tenders, let them cool completely before laying them out in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid. Transfer to a freezer bag or container and enjoy within 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

For the crispiest results, pop cold or frozen tenders back in the air fryer for a few minutes until hot and crunchy again. You can also use a toaster oven in a pinch—just avoid the microwave if you want to keep that beautiful crunch.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a foolproof, family-friendly dinner or snack, give these Air Fried Chicken Tenders a try—once you taste the golden crunch and juicy center, you’ll be hooked! I can’t wait for you to make these a regular in your kitchen lineup.

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