3-Ingredient Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Craving crispy, juicy chicken tenders without the guilt of deep frying? Look no further!
This 3-ingredient air fryer recipe delivers perfectly cooked tenders with a satisfying crunch, all while keeping things simple and healthier.
Get ready for a game-changing way to enjoy this classic favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 cup fat-free buttermilk
- 1 cup Italian seasoned panko bread crumbs
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
Instructions
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Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) in the refrigerator.
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Remove tenders from buttermilk and place on a wire rack to drain excess liquid.
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Coat each tender evenly in panko breadcrumbs, then return to the wire rack.
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Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
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Arrange tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray with nonstick cooking spray.
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Cook for 6 minutes, then flip tenders and spray again. Cook for an additional 6-8 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Possible Substitutes and Variations
- Replace 1/4 cup buttermilk with hot sauce for spicy tenders
- Use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko for a finer coating
- Substitute buttermilk with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor
- Add grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy tenders with your favorite dipping sauce:
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- BBQ sauce
Pair with a side of:
- Air fryer sweet potato fries
- Fresh garden salad
- Coleslaw
For a complete meal, serve alongside:
- Steamed vegetables
- Corn on the cob
- Mac and cheese