Cooling Breaded Chicken Tenders: Air Fryer Tips

Chicken tenders are a family favourite, but they can be time-consuming to make and often require a lot of oil for frying. However, an air fryer offers a convenient and healthier alternative to the traditional deep-frying method. By using an air fryer, you can achieve the same crispy, golden texture with minimal oil, making it a quick and easy option for a weeknight meal. In this article, we will explore the steps to make delicious, juicy, and crispy breaded chicken tenders in an air fryer, along with some tips and tricks to ensure perfect results every time.

How to bread chicken tenders for an air fryer

Breaded chicken tenders are a delicious, healthier alternative to frying. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to bread chicken tenders for an air fryer:

Firstly, prepare your chicken tenders. You can buy chicken tenderloins or cut chicken breasts into strips. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and place them in a large mixing bowl.

Next, prepare your breading stations. In one shallow bowl, crack and beat two eggs. In a separate shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs and panko. You can also add some spices to the breadcrumb mixture, such as smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.

Now it's time to bread the chicken. Take each tender and dip it first in the egg, then into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly and shake off any excess. Place the breaded tenders on a large dish or cutting board.

Once all the tenders are breaded, spray or drizzle both sides of the chicken generously with oil. This will help the tenders get crispy in the air fryer.

Finally, preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook the tenders for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Your crispy, juicy, and tender chicken tenders are now ready to be served! Enjoy them with your favourite dipping sauces, such as BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch.

How long to cook chicken tenders in an air fryer

Yes, you can cook breaded chicken tenders in an air fryer. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

How to Cook Breaded Chicken Tenders in an Air Fryer:

First, season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Then, prepare your breading stations by putting two eggs in a shallow bowl and combining breadcrumbs and panko in another bowl. Next, dip each chicken tender into the egg and then into the breadcrumb mixture. Place them on a cutting board or baking tray once they are all breaded. Spray both sides of the chicken tenders with olive oil.

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the basket. Cook the chicken tenders for 5-6 minutes on each side, turning halfway, until they are cooked through and golden.

Tips for Cooking Chicken Tenders in an Air Fryer:

• Always preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken tenders. This helps ensure a crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken.
• Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket to allow for even cooking. If needed, cook them in batches.
• For gluten-free breading, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or panko.

Cooking time for chicken tenders in an air fryer will depend on the thickness of the chicken and the model of your air fryer. On average, chicken tenders will take around 10-12 minutes to cook in a preheated air fryer at 400°F. For thicker chicken tenders, it may take a little longer. It is recommended to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked.

How to store and reheat chicken tenders

Chicken tenders are a delicious meal or snack, but what do you do when you have leftovers? Here is a guide on how to store and reheat chicken tenders to ensure they stay crispy and tasty.

Storing Chicken Tenders

To store chicken tenders, allow them to cool to room temperature. You can place them on a plate or baking tray to cool, but do not leave them out for more than an hour. Once they have cooled, place the chicken tenders in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator. They will keep for 3-4 days.

If you don't think you will eat the chicken tenders within this time, you can freeze them. First, flash-freeze them by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet and putting them in the freezer for 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the individually frozen tenders to an airtight container or freezer bag. They will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Chicken Tenders

There are several ways to reheat chicken tenders, including using an oven, toaster oven, microwave, or air fryer. Here are the steps for each method:

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F-400°F. Place the chicken tenders on a foil-lined baking sheet or directly on a rack with a layer of aluminum foil or a baking sheet underneath to catch any grease. Bake for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
• Toaster Oven: Preheat the toaster oven to 350°F-400°F. Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet or directly on the wire rack for extra crispiness. Bake for 7 minutes, then flip and bake for an additional 3-5 minutes.
• Microwave: Place the chicken tenders on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through, about 1 minute total.
• Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F-375°F. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd them. Cook for 5-8 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Tips for Reheating Chicken Tenders:

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Avoid overheating the chicken tenders, as this can make them chewy and tough.
• If using a microwave, consume the chicken tenders before they cool down completely to avoid a rubbery texture.
• For crispy chicken tenders, use a wire rack and coat them with oil before reheating.
• Always preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken tenders for the best results.

What to serve with chicken tenders

Chicken tenders are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides to add some variety and flavor to your plate. Here are some ideas for what to serve with chicken tenders:

Vegetables

Vegetables make a perfect side dish for chicken tenders, adding both flavor and nutrition. You can dress them up, make them heartier and more filling, or keep them light. Some options include broccoli, carrots, parsnips, peas, green beans, spinach, cauliflower, beets, onion, and mushrooms. These veggies can be enjoyed plain, air-fried, or roasted.

Salads

Salads are another healthy option to serve with chicken tenders. A simple Kale Caesar Salad or a more complex Greek Quinoa Salad with feta cheese and Mediterranean flavors can complement the tenders well.

Starches

Starches like pasta, bread, rice, oats, potatoes, sweet potatoes, quinoa, corn, beans, and cereals can provide a good source of energy, fiber, and B-vitamins. Pasta, in particular, is a super easy side dish that is usually well-loved by kids. You can keep it plain with some butter or cheese, or mix in other nutrient-dense additions like beans, legumes, or vegetables.

Fruits

Fruits are a great way to add some natural sweetness to your meal. They are generally easy to prepare and can be taken on the go. A creamy Greek yogurt fruit salad is one way to combine fruit and fiber in your diet.

Snacky Sides

If you're serving chicken tenders to picky eaters, you can pair them with some familiar snack foods like veggie sticks, grapes, pepperoni, sweet potato apple muffins, or string cheese. This can be a fun way to introduce new foods in a comfortable setting.

Classic Sides

Some classic sides that go well with chicken tenders include garlic bread, breadsticks, or French fries. You can also serve them with tater tots, onion rings, or sweet potato fries for a twist on the classic.

How to prevent soggy chicken tenders

Yes, you can cook breaded chicken tenders in an air fryer. Here are some tips to prevent soggy chicken tenders:

Before Cooking:

• Brine your chicken: Submerge the chicken tenders in a mixture of water, salt, and sugar for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if possible. This will add moisture to the meat and keep it juicy during the air-frying process.
• Use a combination of eggs and flour for the wet batter: This will help the breading stick to the chicken tenders. If you don't have flour, you can substitute it with potato starch.
• Season the breadcrumbs: Mix your choice of seasonings with the breadcrumbs to add extra flavor to your chicken tenders.
• Press the breadcrumbs into the chicken: After dipping the chicken tenders in the wet batter, coat them with the seasoned breadcrumbs and press them in firmly with your hands. This will ensure that the breading sticks to the chicken and doesn't fall off during cooking.
• Use enough oil: Spray the chicken tenders with a neutral oil spray like avocado, canola, or vegetable oil. This will help to create a crispy exterior.

During Cooking:

• Preheat the air fryer: Always preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken tenders. This will help to create a crispy exterior without overcooking the chicken.
• Cook in batches: Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, without overcrowding. This will ensure even cooking.
• Flip the tenders: Halfway through the cooking time, flip the chicken tenders to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Use a meat thermometer: To ensure your chicken tenders are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

After Cooking:

Reheat gently: If you have leftovers, reheat them in a preheated air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through and crispy.

Frequently asked questions