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air fryer chicken tender bites recipe

Air Fryer Chicken Tender Bites

Hannah Carter AuthorHannah Carter
These air fryer chicken tender bites are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for family meals or quick snacks. Enjoy the healthier version of your favorite chicken tenders.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Course Appetizer
Cuisine American
Servings 8 pieces
Calories 180 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 air fryer preheated to 400°F
  • 3 shallow dishes for coating ingredients

Ingredients
  

Chicken

  • 1 lb chicken tenders cut into bite-sized pieces

Coating

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Add-ons

  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat chicken tenders dry and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Coating

  • In one shallow dish, mix flour with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. In a second dish, beat the eggs. In a third dish, mix panko breadcrumbs with optional add-ons like Parmesan.
  • Dredge each piece of chicken in the flour mixture, then dip in the beaten eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

Cooking

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F.
  • Place the coated chicken bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.

Serving

  • Serve the chicken bites hot with your choice of dipping sauces.

Storage

  • Allow chicken bites to cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.

Notes

Pro Tips: Always preheat your air fryer for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Ingredient Substitutions: For gluten-free, use almond flour.
How to Serve: Pair with dipping sauces like honey mustard.
Storage & Freshness: Store in an airtight container and refrigerate.
Make-Ahead Tips: Prepare and freeze uncooked bites for later use.
Keyword air fryer chicken tender bites, crispy chicken bites, easy air fryer recipes