Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Easy, Juicy Every Time)

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Chicken tenders cook really fast in the air fryer, which is why I end up making them a lot on busy days. You only need a few seasoning, and they're ready in just minutes without turning on the oven.

The main thing with chicken tenders is not overcooking them. Since they're small, they can dry out quickly if left too long.

I'll show you exactly how I cook them so they stay tender and come out just right every time.

How Long to Cook Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer

Chicken tenders usually cook at 380-400°F for about 8-10 minutes, depending on their size
Since they're smaller than other cuts, they cook quickly, so it's important not to overcook them.
Always cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Since chicken tenders cook quickly, the main thing is not to overcook them.

How to Keep Chicken Tenders from Drying Out

Tenders cook quickly, which is great, but it also means they can dry out easily.
The best way to avoid that is to cook them just until they reach 165°F and remove them right away.
Letting them rest for a couple of minutes also helps keep them tender

Ingredients you'll need

Chicken tenders
Parmesan cheese
Paprika
Garlic powder
Oregano
Thyme
Mustard
Italian seasoning

seasoning on a bowl to make this recipe.

Seasoning Ideas for Chicken Tenders

How to season chicken tenders?

For this recipe, you will need to combine all the ingredients in a bowl and roll the chicken tender until well coated with the mix.

How to make chicken tenders in the air fryer

Combine the seasoning: In a small bowl combine the parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, mustard and Italian seasoning, set aside

Season the meat: Season chicken with salt and black pepper to taste, roll the chicken tenders into the mix until well coated.

Cook: Place the chicken tender inside the air fryer basket, set the temperature to 385ºF for 12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Remove inmediatly after reaching an internal temperature of 165ºF.

Recipe Tips

Pat the chicken dry before seasoning so it cooks better in the air fryer
Don't overcrowd the basket or the tenders won't cook evenly
Flip halfway through cooking so both sides cook the same
Remove the chicken as soon as it reaches 165°F to avoid drying it out
Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving

The Basic Method for Air Fryer Chicken

This recipe follows the same simple method I use in my air fryer chicken recipes. If you want more details, you can also check my air fryer chicken thighs or air fryer chicken breast guides.

How to Know When Chicken Tenders Are Done

The easiest way to check is with a meat thermometer. Chicken tenders are done when they reach 165°F in the thickest part.

The chicken should feel firm and no longer look pink inside.

What goes well with chicken tenders

Chicken tenders are really easy to pair with simple sides, which is why I make them a lot on busy days. You can keep things simple or turn them into a full meal depending on what you have at home.

You can serve this with your favorite dipping sauce if you are planning to eat it as an appetizer along with some Air Fryer Chicken Wings |No Flour|.

To serve them as a complete meat here are some options you can make using the air fryer:

You can also use leftover chicken tenders for lunch the next day in wraps or bowls.

How to store and reheat leftovers

You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and in the freezer for up to 2 months, you can freeze longer if you use a vacuum sealer.

To Reheat

Place the pieces in the air fryer basket and reheat at 350ºF for 5 minutes or until it reach an internal temperature of 165ºF.

Don't use the microwave because it can make the tenders dry and chewy.

Why Are My Tenders Dry in the Air Fryer?

Chicken tenders usually dry out when they are overcooked. Because they are smaller than other cuts, they cook quickly and can go from done to dry in just a few minutes.

The best way to avoid this is to check them early and remove them as soon as they reach 165°F.

FAQ's

Do you need to flip chicken tenders in the air fryer?

Yes, flipping halfway helps them cook evenly.

Can you cook frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer?

Yes, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can you stack chicken tenders in the air fryer?

It's best not to stack chicken tenders. Cook them in a single layer so the hot air can circulate properly and cook them evenly.

What's the difference between chicken tenders and chicken strips?

Chicken tenders are the small, natural strip of meat attached to the chicken breast. Chicken strips are usually cut from the breast, so they may be slightly thicker and take a little longer to cook.

Do you need to preheat the air fryer for chicken tenders?

You don't always need to preheat the air fryer, but it can help the chicken cook more evenly. If you do preheat, reduce the cooking time slightly.

Can you cook breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer?

Yes, breaded chicken tenders cook very well in the air fryer. They usually take about 8-10 minutes at 380°F, depending on their size. Flip them halfway through so they cook evenly.

Other air fryer Chicken Recipes you'll love to try

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