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Crispy air fryer chicken tenders garnished and ready to eat.

Extra Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

These extra crispy chicken tenders are coated in a simple flour and breadcrumb mixture, air-fried to perfection for a juicy and crunchy finish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 pieces
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray For spritzing the tenders
Coating
  • 1/2 cup flour For the first coating
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs Regular or panko
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese Optional, for a deeper flavor
Seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt To season the chicken
  • 1 teaspoon pepper To season the chicken
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika For seasoning

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika on both sides.
  3. Set up your dredging station with flour in one bowl and breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan (if using) in a second bowl.
Coating
  1. Dip each tender into the flour, ensuring it is well coated.
  2. Press each tender into the breadcrumb mixture until fully covered with no wet patches.
Cooking
  1. Place the coated tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer and spray lightly with oil.
  2. Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serving
  1. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Don't crowd the air fryer basket to maintain crispiness. For best results, flip gently and watch closely the last few minutes of cooking.