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fried chicken air fryer recipe

Fried Style Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Healthy No Oil Version)

Marcus Reed AuthorMarcus Reed
These air fryer chicken tenders provide all the crispiness of traditional fried chicken without the use of oil, making them a healthier option for clean eating.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 servings
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 air fryer preheated
  • 1 mixing bowl large
  • 1 tongs

Ingredients
  

Chicken Tenders

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Additions

  • 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels and trim any excess fat. This will help the coating stick better and ensure a crispy finish.

Coating

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until evenly mixed.
  • Dip each chicken tenderloin into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks. Repeat until all pieces are coated.

Cooking

  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. This ensures an even cooking temperature for all the tenders.
  • Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through.

Serving

  • Serve the tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces and sides for a delightful meal.

Storage

  • Place any leftover tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. For longer preservation, freeze them for up to a month.

Notes

Pro Tips: Ensure chicken is dry before coating for maximum crispiness. Ingredient Substitutions: Use panko for extra crunch. How to Serve: Great with coleslaw and dipping sauces. Storage & Freshness: Keep in airtight containers. Make-Ahead Tips: Coat chicken in advance and refrigerate until ready to cook.
Keyword crispy air fryer chicken, fried chicken air fryer, healthy air fryer chicken