Best Air Fried Chicken Tenders (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for a healthier option for those crispy and delicious chicken tenders you love, you might want to consider air frying them. Air frying is a cooking method that uses hot air circulation to cook food, giving it a crispy and golden texture without the need for excessive oil. It’s a great way to enjoy your favorite fried food guilt-free. But how do you choose the best air fryer for making chicken tenders?
Before investing in an air fryer, there are a few factors you need to consider. First, make sure the air fryer you choose has a large enough capacity to fit the amount of chicken tenders you plan on making. Second, consider the wattage of the air fryer to ensure it is powerful enough to cook your chicken tenders evenly and quickly. You’ll also want to look for an air fryer with a nonstick surface for easy cleaning.
Are you tired of overcooked or soggy chicken tenders? The best air fryers for making chicken tenders should have adjustable temperature and time settings, allowing you to customize the cooking process to your liking. If you’re worried about the health aspect, choose an air fryer that boasts a high oil retention rate to allow the excess oil to drain away.
Are you ready to enjoy delicious and crispy chicken tenders guilt-free? Consider investing in an air fryer for your kitchen. Keep these factors in mind when choosing the best air fryer for making chicken tenders and enjoy your perfectly cooked favorite snack anytime you want!
10 Best Air Fried Chicken Tenders
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These plant-based nuggets are ideal for individuals looking for a meat-free alternative to traditional chicken nuggets.
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2
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Ideal for coating and seasoning chicken before air frying.
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3
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The product is ideal for those looking for fully cooked, natural chicken tenderloins/nuggets with no antibiotics or hormones.
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4
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This product is ideal for enhancing the flavor of food with garlic and parmesan seasoning when air frying.
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5
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This product is ideal for serving a large number of people easily, without the need to cook raw chicken tenderloins.
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6
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It is ideal for those who want a quick and healthy meal that is already fully cooked and free from antibiotics.
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7
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The product is ideal for coating poultry to achieve authentic flavor and ultimate crunchy texture.
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8
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It is ideal for those looking for a vegan alternative to ground chicken and want the versatility of shaping it into various dishes.
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9
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Ideal for those following low carb, keto, paleo, gluten-free, sugar-free, and bariatric diets as a bread crumb substitute.
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10
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Ideal for frying delicious and crispy Southern-style buttermilk chicken at home.
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1. Gardein Ultimate Plant-Based Chick'n Nuggets, 14.7 Oz
The Gardein Ultimate plant-based chick'n nuggets come in a 14.7 oz. bag and are a perfect vegan alternative to traditional chicken nuggets. They are frozen and ready to be cooked whenever you're ready to indulge in a delicious meal or snack.
These plant-based nuggets have a crispy, breaded texture that looks, cooks, and tastes like real chicken. They are perfect for those who want to enjoy the taste of chicken without consuming any animal products. These nuggets are non-GMO, dairy-free, and contain 15g of protein per serving, making them a wholesome and satisfying snack or meal option.
These vegan chick'n nuggets can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. They can be dunked in your favorite sauces, or eaten on their own for a quick and delicious snack. They are also a great option to pair with sides for a tasty dinner that everyone will enjoy.
2. Louisiana Fish Fry Air Fryer Chicken Coating Mix, 5 Ounce (Pack Of 8)
The Air Fryer Seasoned Coating Mix for Chicken is a delicious and convenient way to achieve maximum crunch and full flavor in no time! This pre-mixed coating mix is specially created for air fryers, ensuring an even coating every time.
The mix features a rich and flavorful combination of Garlic Butter Sauce, Panko Bake, and Cajun Seasoning that is sure to please any crowd. In fact, it's so popular that the recipe can easily be doubled for larger groups.
Not just for chicken, this Louisiana crispy fish fry can be added to any meat or even vegetables and seafood for a crisp coating with a kick of flavor. Unlike ordinary flour-based batters, this 5-oz Louisiana seasoned crispy fish fry provides a richer flavor that is sure to impress.
At just 60 calories per serving, this coating mix is suitable for certain diets. Plus, it can be used with sauces, boils, and other Louisiana Fish Fry products (sold separately) for an even more authentic-tasting meal.
3. Grumpy Butcher Chicken Tenders: All-Natural, Fully Cooked.
Indulge in the mouth-watering flavor of The Grumpy Butcher's Premium Chicken Breast Tenders. These fully-cooked tenders are made with lightly seasoned and marinated chicken breast and rib meat, and coated in a signature crunchy breaded coating that sets them apart from the rest of the crowd.
These chicken tenders are ready in minutes, making them perfect for elegant hors d'oeuvres or appetizers for guests. The tenders can be reheated from frozen in the oven or air fryer, and heating instructions are included.
These breaded chicken breast tenderloins are versatile and can be included in a variety of chicken recipes. Add them to a chicken Caesar salad or fettuccine Alfredo, or enjoy them on their own for a tender and delicious meal.
The Grumpy Butcher ensures top-quality care and consistency in the preparation of their breaded chicken breast tenderloins, making them convenient for any cooking option. You can bake them in a preheated conventional oven or deep fry them in a skillet, and still enjoy the same great flavor.
The Grumpy Butcher is committed to providing high-quality poultry, beef, pork, lamb, and broths from animals that are born and humanely raised on independent family-owned farms. All of their livestock are raised without the use of antibiotics or growth hormones, ensuring that customers receive the best possible product.
Order from The Grumpy Butcher and receive your order in 1-2 days, processed and shipped the same day for the best possible condition of your product. Don't miss out on the delicious taste and convenience of The Grumpy Butcher's Premium Chicken Breast Tenders.
4. Mccormick, Air Fryer Garlic Parmesan Seasoning Mix, 1.25 Oz
McCormick Air Fryer Seasoning Mixes offer a convenient and delicious way to enhance your air frying experience. Their Garlic Parmesan Seasoning Mix is specifically developed for air fryers, guaranteeing a perfect blend of flavors every time.
The Garlic Parmesan Seasoning Mix allows you to enjoy the classic flavors of garlic and parmesan in your air-fried meals. With this seasoning, you can easily prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Garlic Parmesan Fries with less oil than traditional deep-frying methods. This means that you can indulge in your favorite meals while keeping a healthy lifestyle.
One of the benefits of using McCormick Air Fryer Seasoning Mixes is that they're ready in less time than frying, and with less mess to clean up. This saves you time and makes cooking more convenient. Plus, the Garlic Parmesan Seasoning Mix is made with McCormick spices, including oregano and basil, with no artificial flavors added. This ensures that your meals are healthy and flavorful.
This seasoning mix is versatile, as it can be used for both chicken seasoning and French fry seasoning. It can also be used for oven preparation, giving you more options to prepare your meals.
5. Clean & Crunchy Chicken Tenders – Tyson Red Label
Introducing a new and innovative product that promises to revolutionize your menu offerings and delight your customers. This product offers Better Prices, Better Performance, and Better Flavor, making it an irresistible option for your establishment.
One of the key benefits of this product is its cost-effectiveness. With savings of up to 20% compared to similar chicken products currently on your menu, you can pass on these savings to your customers or increase your profit margins.
In addition to its affordability, this product also boasts exceptional performance. Whether you choose to cook it in an oven or fryer, it delivers a great eating experience with every serving. Your customers will be impressed with the juicy and tender chicken on the inside, and the golden crispy breading on the outside.
Speaking of the breading, this product's fine flour and breadcrumb combination creates a delicately crisp texture that is sure to please. The golden color and coarse crumb also add to the visual appeal of the dish, enhancing any plate presentation.
This product is incredibly versatile and can be used as an appetizer or entrée option. It is perfect for sampler platters, chicken strip baskets, snackable wraps, and more. Your customers will love the variety and options it provides.
6. Tyson Perfectly Crispy Chicken Strips – Antibiotic-Free Gourmet
Tyson's crispy and hearty chicken breast strips are the perfect snack for any time of day. These chicken strips have a crispy coating that provides a satisfying crunch with every bite. The best part? They're fully cooked, making preparation a breeze.
Made with 100% all natural ingredients, these chicken strips are a healthier alternative to other snacks. They're made with natural, minimally processed chicken raised with no antibiotics ever and no added hormones or steroids.
One of the best things about these chicken strips is their versatility. They can be served as a hot snack alongside ketchup, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce, or chopped up and added to a bed of leafy greens for a more substantial meal. They're also the perfect finger food, requiring no utensils to enjoy.
Tyson's chicken strips are the perfect solution for busy nights when you need a quick and easy dinner option. They're great for on-the-go snacking and are perfect for those moments when you need some "me time."
7. Zatarain's 25lb Southern Chicken Fry Mix.
Zatarain's Crispy Southern Style Chicken Fry is the perfect seasoning for anyone who wants to add a classic New Orleans flavor and ultimate crunch to their poultry and seafood dishes. This versatile chicken fry seasoning can be used to batter a variety of foods, giving chefs the freedom to experiment with different flavor combinations.
Crafted with a blend of premium ingredients, including cornmeal, cornflour, spices, and lemon juice, this pre-mixed seasoning offers a flavor profile that customers will crave. Whether you are making a small batch or a large one, the repeatable results of this seasoning ensure that your recipes will come out perfectly every time.
Designed with chefs in mind, each 25-pound container of chicken fry seasoning is ideal for bulk batches and back-of-house recipe customization. You can easily dispense it into smaller containers for ease of use and to prevent waste.
One of the best things about Zatarain's Crispy Southern Style Chicken Fry is its versatility and ease of use. It enhances the flavor of many meals and perfectly coats chicken, poultry, and seafood dishes. You can use it to add a touch of New Orleans flavor to your favorite recipes or to create new ones.
Zatarain's Crispy Southern Style Chicken Fry is made using carefully selected, premium ingredients that are kosher and good for you. You can serve all your guests with confidence when you make meals with ingredients you can trust.
8. Vegan Chicken Mix – Create Ultimate Plant-Based Meals!
This plant-based chicken substitute crumble is a versatile and easy-to-use addition to any kitchen. With just water and oil, this mix can be transformed into a variety of shapes, including strips, nuggets, tenders, cutlets, and crumbles. It can be cooked in a variety of ways, such as pan-frying, oven-baking, air-frying, and grilling, making it a suitable option for many cooking styles.
Each pouch contains 1lb of Chick'n, which can be used to make approximately 4 patties, 12 meatballs, 8 tenders, 24 nuggets, or 1lb of ground vegan chicken. Any remaining mix can be refrigerated in a closed-lid container for up to 48 hours.
This plant-based chicken substitute is soy-free, cholesterol-free, and kosher certified. It contains 20g of protein per serving, which is derived from dried textured wheat and pea protein (contains gluten). It is also non-GMO, rich in Vitamin B12, and does not contain any preservatives.
The Chickenless Mix is made with simple ingredients, making it one of the cleanest vegan chicken options available on the market. Unlike many meat substitutes, it is free from chemicals and requires no refrigeration for the dry mix.
This plant-based chicken substitute is a simple solution for those looking to enjoy meat-free home-cooked meals. It is a healthy and delicious option that is vegan, animal-free, and easy to use.
9. Keto-Licious Pork Rind Breadcrumbs – Low Carb Heaven!
Introducing Pork King Good Pork Rind Crumbs, the perfect solution for those following a ketogenic, paleo, bariatric or gluten-free diet, or simply watching their carb intake. With absolutely no carbs per serving, you can now relish your favorite foods without the guilt.
Pork King Good Pork Rind Crumbs are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of delicious recipes. Made from high-quality pork rinds and chicharrones, they are finely ground to a crumb-like consistency, making them an ideal substitute for bread crumbs. Use them to make chicken fingers, fish sticks, eggplant parmigiana, meatballs, and even pizza crusts, garlic bread and pancakes. The options are endless, and free recipes are available online.
Unlike the hassle of crunching up pork rinds yourself, Pork King Good Pork Rind Crumbs come in a convenient 12 oz jar, with four full cups of crumbs. The jar shape makes scooping and measuring a breeze, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
But why pork rinds, you may ask? Simply put, they're Pork-King good! Pork King Good has developed the most delicious pork rinds on the market. Light, salty, and crunchy, these melt-in-your-mouth whisps of deliciousness are second to none. Pork King Good pork rinds are not just any snack food, they're the ultimate, naturally low-carb, quintessentially keto snack food. Each serving contains zero grams of carbs, zero grams of sugar, and only 90 calories.
10. Zatarain's Southern Buttermilk Chicken Fry Mix, 9 Oz
Looking for a quick and easy meal solution? Look no further than Zatarain’s No MSG Added Chicken Fry Mix. This versatile mix is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious and easy-to-prepare meal.
One of the great things about this mix is that it contains no MSG. This means that you can enjoy the delicious taste of fried chicken without any added preservatives or artificial ingredients.
In addition, Zatarain’s No MSG Added Chicken Fry Mix is free from artificial flavors and colors. This means that you can enjoy a delicious meal with all-natural ingredients.
There are three easy ways to cook this mix: bake, pan fry, or deep fry. This makes it perfect for anyone who wants to prepare a quick and easy meal without a lot of fuss.
For a complete meal, consider serving your chicken with Zatarain’s Yellow Rice Mix. This combination is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try using this mix with fish, shrimp, or pork chops. The possibilities are endless, and you’re sure to come up with some delicious and creative meals using Zatarain’s No MSG Added Chicken Fry Mix.
Best Air Fried Chicken Tenders FAQs
Can I make air fried chicken tenders without any oil?
Yes, you can make air fried chicken tenders without any oil. Air frying is a cooking method that uses hot air to cook food, instead of oil. This makes it a healthier option for those who want to enjoy crispy chicken tenders without the added calories and fat from oil.
To make air fried chicken tenders without oil, you can start by coating the chicken tenders in a mixture of flour, breadcrumbs, and your choice of seasonings. Then, place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket and cook them at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process.
The hot air circulating in the air fryer basket will cook the chicken tenders to a crispy golden brown without the need for any oil. Just be sure to monitor the chicken tenders closely to avoid overcooking or burning them. Overall, air frying chicken tenders without oil is a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthier version of a classic dish.
Can I use different types of breading for air fried chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use different types of breading for air fried chicken tenders. The great thing about air frying is that it allows you to use a variety of breading options, including traditional flour, breadcrumbs, panko, cornmeal, and even crushed nuts or potato chips.
When choosing a breading for your chicken tenders, it is important to consider the texture and flavor you want to achieve. Flour or cornmeal will give you a traditional Southern-style crunch, while breadcrumbs or panko will create a lighter, crispier texture. Crushed nuts or potato chips can add extra flavor and crunch to your tenders.
To get the best results, it is important to properly coat your chicken tenders in the breading mixture before placing them in the air fryer. You can use a mixture of egg and milk to help the breading stick to the chicken.
Experiment with different breading options to find the perfect combination for your air fried chicken tenders. With a little creativity, you can create delicious and healthy chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
How can I make sure my air fried chicken tenders are cooked all the way through?
To ensure that your air fried chicken tenders are cooked all the way through, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure that the chicken tenders are not too thick or too cold when you put them in the air fryer. If they are too thick, you may need to flatten them out a bit before cooking. If they are too cold, they may take longer to cook all the way through.
Next, make sure to preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken. This will help ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and thoroughly.
When cooking the chicken tenders, it's important to flip them over halfway through the cooking time. This will help ensure that both sides of the chicken are cooked evenly.
Finally, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit to be considered fully cooked.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your air fried chicken tenders are cooked all the way through and are safe to eat.
How can I prevent the breading from falling off my air fried chicken tenders?
To prevent the breading from falling off your air fried chicken tenders, there are a few things you can do. Firstly, make sure that the chicken tenders are thoroughly coated in your breading mixture. You can do this by dipping them in a beaten egg mixture first and then rolling them in the breading mixture until they are completely coated.
Secondly, it's important to use the right type of breading mixture. A mixture that is too crumbly or dry may not adhere well to the chicken tenders. Instead, try using a mixture that includes a combination of flour, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. This will help create a more cohesive and flavorful breading that will stick better to the chicken.
Lastly, make sure that your air fryer is preheated before adding the chicken tenders. This will help ensure that the breading sets properly and doesn't fall off during the cooking process. Additionally, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket as this can cause the chicken tenders to stick together and the breading to fall off.
How do I get a crispy coating on air fried chicken tenders?
To get a crispy coating on air fried chicken tenders, there are a few tricks you can try. Firstly, make sure to coat the chicken in a dry mixture before air frying. This can be a mixture of breadcrumbs, flour, cornstarch, or panko. It's important to pat the chicken dry before coating it to ensure the coating sticks well.
Another trick is to use a cooking spray or brush on a light layer of oil before air frying. This will help to crisp up the coating and give it a golden brown color. It's important not to overdo it with the oil as too much can make the chicken greasy.
Lastly, make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket. If there are too many chicken tenders in the basket, they won't cook evenly and the coating may not get as crispy. It's better to cook them in batches if needed.
By following these tips, you should be able to achieve a crispy coating on your air fried chicken tenders.
What are some seasoning combinations that work well with air fried chicken tenders?
Air fried chicken tenders are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried chicken. When it comes to seasoning, there are endless possibilities. Here are some seasoning combinations that work well with air fried chicken tenders:
1. Classic: Salt, black pepper, and paprika are the classic seasoning combination that works well with most dishes, including chicken tenders.
2. Cajun: Cajun seasoning, which includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and other spices, adds a spicy kick to the chicken tenders.
3. Lemon herb: Lemon zest, garlic powder, dried thyme, and rosemary make a refreshing and tangy seasoning combo for air fried chicken tenders.
4. Ranch: A mixture of dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt make a delicious ranch seasoning that pairs well with chicken tenders.
5. Honey mustard: A mixture of honey, dijon mustard, garlic powder, and salt makes a sweet and savory seasoning for chicken tenders.
Experiment with different seasonings and find the one that suits your taste buds. With air fried chicken tenders, the possibilities are endless.
What is the best recipe for air fried chicken tenders?
Air fried chicken tenders are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. The best recipe for air fried chicken tenders involves a few simple ingredients and steps.
First, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. While the air fryer is heating up, prepare your chicken tenders. Cut chicken breasts into long strips, about 1 inch wide. In a bowl, mix together 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
In another bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 1 tablespoon of milk. Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then into the flour mixture, making sure they are coated evenly.
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray, then place the chicken strips inside. Cook for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing. These air fried chicken tenders are crispy, flavorful, and a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Enjoy!
What is the ideal cooking time and temperature for air fried chicken tenders?
Air frying has become a popular way of cooking chicken tenders as it offers a healthier alternative to deep frying. The ideal cooking time and temperature for air fried chicken tenders will depend on the thickness and size of the chicken. As a general guideline, it is recommended to preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes. However, it is important to check the chicken periodically and flip them halfway through the cooking process to ensure even cooking. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F to ensure that it is fully cooked and safe to eat. It is also important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the model and brand of your air fryer, so it is best to refer to the manufacturer's instructions and make sure to follow them accordingly.
What sides go well with air fried chicken tenders?
Air fried chicken tenders are a delicious and healthy option for a quick and easy meal. When it comes to sides, there are plenty of options that can complement the tenders and make for a satisfying meal.
One popular side dish that goes well with air fried chicken tenders is a simple green salad. The fresh greens offer a nice contrast to the crispy chicken and can be dressed up with a variety of toppings such as cherry tomatoes, sliced cucumbers, and croutons.
Another great side dish to serve with air fried chicken tenders is roasted vegetables. Broccoli, carrots, and sweet potatoes are all great options that can be seasoned with garlic, salt, and pepper for added flavor.
If you're looking for a more substantial side dish, consider serving the chicken tenders with a side of brown rice or quinoa. These healthy grains provide a good source of fiber and can help balance out the protein from the chicken.
Lastly, if you're looking for a classic side dish, French fries or sweet potato fries are always a hit. However, it's important to keep in mind that these sides are high in calories and should be enjoyed in moderation.
What type of chicken should I use for air fried chicken tenders?
The best type of chicken to use for air fried chicken tenders is boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This is because chicken breasts are lean and have a mild flavor, which makes them perfect for coating with breadcrumbs or a seasoned flour mixture and then air frying. You can also use chicken tenderloins if you prefer a smaller size for your tenders.
It's important to note that before cooking, the chicken should be cut into strips and seasoned to taste with salt, pepper, and any other spices or herbs you prefer. You can also marinate the chicken in buttermilk or a mixture of yogurt and spices to add extra flavor and tenderness.
When air frying the chicken tenders, make sure to preheat the air fryer and lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Cook the tenders in batches to ensure they cook evenly and turn them over halfway through cooking to get a crispy, golden brown crust on both sides.