Name: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Buttermilk; 1/2 teaspoon Hot sauce (or more, if desired); 2 pounds Chicken tenders; 1 cup All-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons Stone House Seasoning; Olive oil spray (for cooking)

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When I think of comfort food, Air Fryer Chicken Tenders immediately comes to mind. I remember the days spent in the kitchen with my family, trying to perfect that golden, crispy exterior that is so satisfying to bite into. The aroma that fills the air while these tenders cook always makes my mouth water in anticipation. There’s something magical about the way the air fryer brings out the flavor in the chicken, creating a dish that is both flavorful and healthier than traditional frying methods. Whether I’m serving them for a cozy family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, these tenders are always a hit!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
20 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
30 g

Diet:
Paleo, Whole30, Vegan

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

They’re Healthier Without Sacrificing Flavor

One of the best things about Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is that they’re made with minimal oil, allowing you to enjoy crispy chicken without the guilt. The air fryer circulates hot air around the tenders, creating that desirable crunch while keeping the chicken moist and tender inside. It’s a win-win situation!

Simple Ingredients

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. With just a few key players like buttermilk, flour, and your favorite seasonings, you can whip up a batch of these tenders in no time. The Stone House Seasoning adds a unique flavor that elevates the dish, making it irresistible!

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a game day or a weeknight dinner, Air Fryer Chicken Tenders fit right in. You can serve them as an appetizer or main course, pair them with dipping sauces, or include them in a salad. They’re versatile and can easily complement any meal.

Kid-Friendly

Let’s face it—kids love chicken tenders! Making your own at home means you can control the ingredients and make them as healthy as you want. My kids can’t resist these tenders, and it’s a great way to get them involved in the kitchen. They love helping to dip the chicken in the buttermilk and coat it in the flour.

Great for Meal Prep

If you’re looking to meal prep, these tenders are a fantastic option. You can prepare a big batch and freeze them for busy days when you need something quick and satisfying. Just pop them in the air fryer, and you have a delicious meal ready in minutes!

Everything You Need for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a significant role in creating the perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. From the buttermilk that tenderizes the chicken to the flour that creates that crispy coating, each element complements the others beautifully. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need:

Buttermilk: 1 cup – This ingredient not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the chicken, making it juicy and moist.
Hot sauce: 1/2 teaspoon or more, if desired – A dash of hot sauce adds a subtle kick that elevates the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Chicken tenders: 2 pounds – The star of the show, chicken tenders are naturally tender and perfect for quick cooking.
All-purpose flour: 1 cup – This ingredient forms the crispy coating that everyone loves.
Stone House Seasoning: 1 1/2 teaspoons – A special blend of spices that adds depth and flavor to the chicken.
Olive oil spray: For cooking – A light misting of olive oil helps achieve that golden, crispy finish.

How to Cook Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Cooking Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is a breeze! With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy. Follow these detailed instructions:

Start by adding the hot sauce to the buttermilk in a mixing bowl. Whisk together until well combined. This mixture will marinate the chicken tenders, enhancing their flavor. If you can, refrigerate the chicken in the buttermilk mixture overnight for the best results.
If time is short, don’t worry! Let the chicken tenders soak in the buttermilk while you prepare the other ingredients. This is essential for flavor and moisture.
Preheat your air fryer to 400º F. This step is crucial for ensuring the chicken cooks evenly and gets that perfect crisp.
In another bowl or a large, shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour and the Stone House Seasoning. Whisk them together until they are evenly blended.
Pour about one-quarter of the buttermilk mixture into the flour mixture. Whisk until fully incorporated; this will create a thick, flavorful coating.
Now, it’s time to remove half of the chicken tenders from the buttermilk mixture. A few at a time, place them in the flour mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated, pressing the mixture onto the tenders for adherence.
Spray your air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Space them out to allow the hot air to circulate.
Spritz the tops of the chicken tenders with a light coating of olive oil spray. Set the timer for ten minutes.
At the halfway mark, use tongs to flip the chicken tenders over. Give them another spritz of oil and set the timer for another ten minutes.
While the first batch cooks, prepare the second half of the chicken tenders to ensure you can enjoy them fresh and hot.

Things Worth Knowing

Ensure Even Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; this allows for proper air circulation, which is essential for crispy chicken.
Check for Doneness: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165º F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure safety.
Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the flour mixture for a unique flavor profile.
Marinating Time: If you can’t marinate overnight, aim for at least 30 minutes for best flavor results.

How to Switch It Up

There are so many ways to customize your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders to suit your taste! Here are some fun ideas to consider:

Spice It Up: Add more hot sauce to the buttermilk for an extra kick, or experiment with different hot sauce varieties.
Herbed Coating: Mix dried herbs like oregano or thyme into the flour for added flavor.
Cheesy Tenders: Incorporate grated cheese into the coating for a cheesy, savory twist.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute chicken tenders with tofu or vegetables like zucchini for a vegetarian-friendly version.
Sweet and Spicy Glaze: After cooking, toss the tenders in a mixture of honey and hot sauce for a sticky, sweet finish.
Serve with Different Dips: Try different dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli to elevate the experience.

What to Pair With Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Serving Air Fryer Chicken Tenders opens up a world of delicious pairing possibilities. Here’s how to make the most of your meal:

Fresh Salads: Serve with a crisp salad for a refreshing contrast. A light vinaigrette works wonders.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli can balance the meal, adding color and nutrition.
Fried Rice: A side of fried rice can complement the tenders beautifully, making it a filling meal.
Dipping Sauces: Provide a variety of dips such as ranch, barbecue sauce, or honey mustard for guests to enjoy.
Sandwiches: Place the tenders in a bun, add lettuce and tomatoes, and serve as delicious sandwiches.
Family Gatherings: These tenders are perfect for parties or gatherings. Make a big batch and serve them with appetizers.
Picnic Ready: Pack them up for a picnic! They hold up well and are great served cold or warm.

FAQ

While fresh chicken tenders are ideal for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, you can use frozen ones in a pinch. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. You may need to cook them slightly longer, and it’s best to check their internal temperature to ensure they reach 165º F. Just remember, the coating might not adhere as well since they won’t marinate in the buttermilk.

There are countless dipping sauces that pair wonderfully with Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Classic choices like ranch, honey mustard, and barbecue sauce are always a hit. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy aioli or a creamy garlic dip. The beauty of this dish is that it can be paired with virtually any sauce you love!

To achieve extra crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, make sure to coat the chicken well with the flour mixture and spritz them with enough olive oil spray. You can also try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular flour for an even crunchier texture. Additionally, ensure that the chicken pieces are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket, as this allows for proper air circulation.

Absolutely! To make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Ensure that any other ingredients you use, like seasonings and hot sauce, are also gluten-free. This way, everyone can enjoy this delicious dish!

Conclusion

In summary, Air Fryer Chicken Tenders offer a delectable combination of crispiness and juiciness that’s hard to resist. They’re perfect for any occasion and can be customized to suit your taste. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and savor every bite. You won’t be disappointed!