Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: Safe To Cook Raw?

Chicken tenders are a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides, including vegetables, pasta, and fries. They are also a great option for a quick and easy weeknight meal, as they can be cooked in an air fryer with minimal preparation and take less than 15 minutes to cook. The air fryer method produces chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, with a variety of seasonings and breading options to choose from.

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time and temperature for chicken tenders in an air fryer depend on several factors, including the brand and size of your air fryer, the thickness of the chicken tenders, and whether you are cooking them with or without breading.

For breaded chicken tenders, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket and spray them with oil. Air fry the chicken tenders for 8 minutes, then flip them over and spray with more oil. Continue cooking for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until the breading is golden and crispy. The total cooking time for breaded chicken tenders in an air fryer is typically between 12 and 14 minutes.

If you are cooking frozen breaded chicken tenders, preheat your air fryer to 360°F and cook for about 12 minutes. For thicker chicken tenders, you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes.

For unbreaded chicken tenders, preheat your air fryer to 390°F. Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket and spray them with oil. Air fry the chicken tenders for 6 minutes, then flip them over and spray with more oil. Continue cooking for another 6 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden. The total cooking time for unbreaded chicken tenders in an air fryer is typically between 12 and 14 minutes.

It is important to note that cooking times may vary depending on the model and power of your air fryer, so it is always a good idea to keep an eye on your chicken tenders while they are cooking to ensure they don't overcook. Additionally, to get an accurate reading of doneness, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken tenders has reached 165°F.

How to prevent chicken from drying out

Yes, you can cook raw chicken tenders in an air fryer. Here are some tips on how to prevent chicken from drying out:

First, it's important to understand how an air fryer works. Air fryers use rapid air circulation to cook food, heating the air to a high temperature that cooks food quickly and evenly. This method can dry out chicken if not done correctly, as the high-speed circulation of hot air can rapidly evaporate moisture. To prevent this, you can balance the cooking process by choosing the right ingredients and preparing them properly.

Choose ingredients with higher fat content or natural moisture, such as chicken thighs or salmon, which retain moisture better. Marinate your chicken or vegetables with oil or fat-based marinades to create a protective layer that locks in moisture. Even if you're reducing your fat intake, a light coat of oil can make a big difference.

Avoid setting your air fryer to the highest temperature, as this can dry out the interior of your food. Instead, opt for a moderate temperature between 350°F to 375°F (175°C to 190°C) for lean meats. Adjust the cooking time according to the thickness and type of ingredient, as overcooking can lead to dryness.

Ensure your food is arranged in a single layer with enough space between pieces for even air circulation. Overcrowding the basket can block airflow and lead to uneven cooking and dry spots. Flipping your food halfway through the cooking process exposes all sides to hot air, preventing any one side from drying out.

Additionally, consider brining your chicken by soaking it in a solution of water, salt, and spices for 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the type of chicken piece. This adds moisture and keeps the meat juicy during frying.

How to store and reheat chicken tenders

To store chicken tenders, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze them for up to 3-4 months.

To reheat chicken tenders in an air fryer, preheat your air fryer to 350-375°F. Place the tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This helps to prevent sogginess and ensures even heating. You can lightly spray the tenders with cooking oil to enhance their texture, but this is optional. Reheat for 3-5 minutes, checking for doneness halfway through. If they need more time, continue in 1-2 minute increments until they reach your desired level of crispiness. The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of the tenders.

According to USDA guidelines, to ensure food safety, chicken tenders should be reheated to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This temperature kills any harmful bacteria. It is important to note that fried chicken should only be reheated once, as reheating multiple times can increase the risk of contamination.

Seasoning and breading options

If you're looking for a more hands-off approach, you can use premade seasonings like sugar-free lemon pepper or everything bagel seasoning. Just remember to adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences.

For breading, you can use a variety of options like flour, egg, and breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are a popular choice for a super crispy texture. The key is to press the breadcrumbs firmly into the chicken and shake off any excess to ensure an even coating. You can also try a combination of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs for a classic crispy chicken texture.

If you're looking for a low-carb or keto option, you can skip the breading altogether and simply season the chicken tenders with your desired spices and a drizzle of olive oil before air frying. This method still results in juicy and tender chicken tenders with a crispy exterior.

Additionally, brining the chicken tenders before seasoning and breading can add moisture and keep the meat juicy during the air-frying process. You can make a simple brine by mixing water with kosher salt and sugar, then submerging the chicken tenders in this solution for 30 minutes or even overnight.

What to serve with chicken tenders

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

Vegetables

Vegetables make a great side dish for chicken tenders, providing both flavor and nutrition. You can serve them plain, air-fried, or roasted to add a delicious spin. Some vegetable options include:

• Broccoli
• Carrots
• Parsnips
• Peas
• Green beans
• Spinach
• Cauliflower
• Beets
• Onion
• Mushrooms

Salads

Salads can be a light and healthy option to pair with chicken tenders. You can make a simple salad with vegetables like cucumbers and red peppers, or try something more unique like a Fennel and Chickpea Salad or a Kale Caesar Salad.

Pasta

Pasta is a kid-friendly and super easy side dish for chicken tenders. You can make a plain cheesy pasta, a creamy pasta bake, or just noodles with butter. For a gluten-free option, try gluten-free pasta, or mix in nutrient-dense additions like beans, legumes, or vegetables.

Dipping Sauces

Chicken tenders are often served with dipping sauces, such as ketchup, ranch, honey yogurt, BBQ sauce, or a sweet and spicy sauce. You can also get creative and make your own sauce, like a honey mustard sauce.

Potatoes

Potatoes are a hearty and filling side dish that goes well with chicken tenders. You can make mashed potatoes, crispy smashed buffalo potatoes, or a German Potato Salad with a warm bacon-mustard vinaigrette. For a fun twist, you can even set up a baked potato bar with toppings like cheese, sour cream, and chili.

Beans

Beans can be a great source of protein and fiber to accompany chicken tenders. You can try pinto beans, baked beans, or even make your own crispy air-fried green beans.

Remember, you can get creative and adapt these sides to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Bon appétit!

Frequently asked questions