Delicious and Easy-to-Make Chicken Tenders Recipe
Chicken tenders are a delightful and universally loved dish that appeals to chefs of all skill levels. Using an air fryer not only makes the process easier but also healthier by reducing the need for excessive oil. This guide will walk you through an easy-to-follow recipe for succulent chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside—perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering!
Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast strips
- 180g plain flour
- 2 large eggs
- 200g panko breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for a spicy kick)
- Cooking spray or a light drizzle of oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C. Pat dry the chicken strips with a paper towel. Season them lightly with salt and pepper.
- Set Up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the flour mixed with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, beat the eggs. Combine the panko breadcrumbs with paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in the third dish.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken strip in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip them into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Finally, press them into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly spray or drizzle oil on both sides of the breaded chicken tenders. Place them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, assuring they don't overlap.
- Air Fry: Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through. If desired, cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.
- Serve: Once done, remove from air fryer and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ketchup, mayonnaise, or a tangy mustard.
Tips for the Perfect Chicken Tenders
- Uniform Size: Ensure the chicken strips are of similar size for even cooking.
- Crispiness: For extra crispiness, allow the breaded chicken to rest for a few minutes before frying.
- Additional Flavours: Personalise the breadcrumbs with other spices such as oregano, thyme, or even grated parmesan cheese.
Why Use an Air Fryer?
Using an air fryer for making chicken tenders means you get to enjoy a healthier version of the crisply fried favorite. Cooking with hot air circulation provides a comparable crunch to deep-frying but without the oil, making it an excellent method for reducing calorie intake.
Conclusion
This easy chicken tenders recipe requires minimal ingredients and time while delivering maximum flavor and satisfaction. Perfect as a stand-alone snack or part of a hearty meal, these chicken tenders are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.