Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Oil) (Air Fryer)

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Oil) (Air Fryer) (2026 Viral Recipe). This recipe has gone viral for a reason: it’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.

Below you will find the step-by-step instructions to make this amazing dish at home.

Introduction

Get ready to elevate your snack game with the crispiest, juiciest air fryer chicken tenders that will leave you wondering how you ever lived without this recipe! As a health-conscious foodie, I’m always on the lookout for ways to make my favorite comfort foods healthier. And let me tell you, this air fryer chicken tender recipe is a game-changer.

With its no-oil guarantee and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy home cooks and fitness enthusiasts alike. Plus, who can resist the allure of crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders without the guilt? Not me!

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of air fryer magic, exploring the simple yet impressive process of creating mouthwatering chicken tenders that are not only delicious but also ridiculously easy to make. So grab your air fryer and let’s get started!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or tenderloins, cut into strips (about 1/4 inch thick)
• 1 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (gluten-free option available)
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Your favorite seasonings (e.g., Italian seasoning, cumin, chili powder)
• Air fryer basket or tray lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Prep the chicken:** In a shallow dish, whisk together lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips and toss to coat evenly. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator or up to 2 hours if you’re planning ahead.
2. **Prepare the breading station:** On a separate plate or tray, mix together whole wheat breadcrumbs and your desired seasonings (if using). You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
3. **Bread the chicken:** Remove the chicken strips from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, dip each strip into the breading mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the breaded tenders on a plate or tray, leaving space between each piece.
4. **Preheat the air fryer:** Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat it for about 5 minutes. This will help the basket heat evenly and ensure crispy results.
5. **Cook the chicken tenders:** Load the air fryer basket with as many breaded chicken tenders as possible, leaving a little space between each piece. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Repeat the cooking process in batches if necessary.
6. **Crisp up the tenders:** After the initial cooking time, increase the air fryer temperature to 400°F (200°C) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is crispy and golden brown. Keep a close eye on them during this final step to ensure they don’t overcook.
7. **Serve and enjoy:** Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the air fryer basket, place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess moisture, and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Success

• For extra crispy results, pat the breaded chicken tenders dry with a paper towel before cooking.
• If you’re concerned about gluten exposure, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with crushed almonds or panko breadcrumbs.
• To achieve optimal crispiness, make sure to preheat your air fryer correctly and don’t overcrowd the basket.
• Experiment with different seasonings and marinades to give your chicken tenders a unique flavor profile!

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re new to air frying or have questions about this recipe, here are some answers to get you started:

• Q: Can I use other types of meat for this recipe? A: Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef strips, pork tenderloin, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Q: How do I store leftover chicken tenders? A: Cool the cooked tenders to room temperature, then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 2-3 minutes or until crispy again.
• Q: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the marinade and breading mixture up to a day in advance. Simply refrigerate the prepared chicken strips for up to 24 hours before cooking.

That’s it! With this simple air fryer chicken tender recipe, you’ll be enjoying crispy, juicy, no-oil goodness in no time. Give it a try and let me know what you think – happy snacking!

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💡 Pro Tips for Perfect Air Frying

• Space is Key: Don’t overcrowd the basket for max crispiness. 🌬️
• Preheat: A preheated air fryer gives better results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

💡 Master Your Air Fryer: Pro Tips

• Airflow: Don’t crowd the basket. 🌬️
• Preheat: 3-5 mins for best results. 🔥
• Shake: Flip halfway for even browning. 🔄

Why You Should Use an Air Fryer for This Recipe

Using an air fryer is a game-changer for this recipe. Unlike traditional frying, it uses up to 95% less oil, making your meal significantly healthier without sacrificing that delicious crunch. Plus, it is faster than a conventional oven and doesn’t heat up your entire kitchen.

Pro Tips for Perfection

• Don’t Overcrowd: Always cook in a single layer to ensure the hot air circulates evenly.
• Preheat: Taking 3 minutes to preheat your air fryer ensures the food starts cooking immediately for a crispier texture.
• Shake It: Shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning on all sides.

How to Store and Reheat

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until they are crispy again. Do not use a microwave, as it will make them soggy.