Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: The Perfect Timing

Chicken tenders are a popular dish, but how long do they need to be in the air fryer? This is a question many people ask, and the answer is not always straightforward. The cooking time can vary depending on the brand and size of your air fryer, as well as the thickness of the chicken tenders. However, on average, it takes around 10 to 15 minutes to cook chicken tenders in an air fryer. Some recipes suggest cooking for as little as 8 minutes, while others recommend up to 16 minutes. It's important to note that chicken tenders should be cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.

How long to cook frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer

Chicken tenders are a great, easy meal to make in an air fryer, and it's even possible to cook them from frozen. The cooking time will vary depending on the brand and size of your air fryer, but here is a general guide.

First, preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees Fahrenheit. If your air fryer doesn't have a temperature setting, that's ok—just preheat it according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Next, place your frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are in a single layer and not overcrowded. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the tenders in batches.

Cook the tenders for about 12 minutes. It's a good idea to flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. The tenders are done when they are golden brown and crispy.

If you want to be extra sure they are cooked through, you can use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. The chicken tenders are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

And that's it! You can serve your chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy.

How to store leftover chicken tenders

Chicken tenders are a great option for meal prep, but it's important to store them properly to ensure they stay fresh and safe to eat. Here's a guide on how to store leftover chicken tenders:

Storing in the Fridge

If you plan on eating the leftover chicken tenders within a few days, the best option is to store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure the tenders have cooled down to room temperature before placing them in the container. Stored this way, they should stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

Storing in the Freezer

If you don't plan on eating the leftover chicken tenders within a few days, it's best to store them in the freezer. Again, allow the tenders to cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. You can also wrap each tender individually in plastic wrap before placing them in the container for added protection from freezer burn. Stored this way, they should stay fresh for up to 4 months.

Reheating

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover chicken tenders, simply reheat them in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through.

Food Safety

It's important to practice proper food safety when storing and reheating chicken tenders. Always use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit before consuming. In addition, always aim to consume leftover chicken within 3-4 days, as this is the recommended timeframe by the USDA to reduce the risk of bacterial growth.

How to reheat chicken tenders

To reheat chicken tenders, preheat your air fryer to 350°F. Place the tenders in the air fryer basket and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed.

Chicken tenders can be reheated in the air fryer whether they were previously frozen or fresh. If you're reheating frozen tenders, increase the cooking time to 20-25 minutes.

If you're looking to reheat a large batch of tenders, you may need to do so in separate batches to ensure even cooking.

How to get the tenders crispy

To get your chicken tenders crispy in the air fryer, there are a few key steps to follow. Firstly, ensure that you are using a single layer of tenders in the air fryer basket, and cook in batches if necessary. This will allow them to cook evenly without overcrowding. Secondly, preheating the air fryer is crucial. This helps the outside of the chicken get crispy without overcooking the inside. Set your air fryer to around 400°F (200°C).

Another way to ensure your tenders are crispy is to brine the chicken. Brining adds moisture to the meat, keeping it juicy, and allowing for a crispier exterior. To brine, submerge the tenders in a mixture of water, salt, and sugar for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight if you have the time. After brining, be sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before adding any seasonings or breading.

If you are using a breading, it is important to use enough oil to ensure that all parts of the breading are covered. You can use a neutral oil spray, or brush the oil onto the tenders. This will help to prevent soggy chicken tenders. When breading the chicken, be sure to press the breading in well, and shake off any excess.

Finally, the cooking time will depend on your air fryer and the thickness of your tenders, but a good starting point is to cook for around 5-6 minutes on each side, or until golden and crispy.

Tips for crispy tenders:

• Always preheat your air fryer.
• Use a single layer of tenders in the basket, and cook in batches if needed.
• Brine the chicken if you have time, and pat dry before adding any seasonings or breading.
• Use enough oil to cover all parts of the breading.
• Press the breading in well, and shake off any excess.
• Adjust the cooking time as needed to reach the desired crispiness.

How to serve chicken tenders

Chicken tenders are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to elevate your tenders from a simple snack to a delicious meal.

Sauces and Dips

Sauces and dips are a great way to add flavour and moisture to chicken tenders. Try serving with a traditional dip like ranch, BBQ sauce, or honey mustard. For a healthier option, you can also serve with low-fat or fat-free dressings like ranch or sesame. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even try a sweet and spicy bang bang sauce or a tangy Asian sauce.

Sides

Chicken tenders go well with a variety of sides, both healthy and indulgent. Here are some ideas:

• French fries or sweet potato fries: A classic combination, especially for finger food.
• Potato wedges: A fresh alternative to regular fries that can be easily made in the oven.
• Baked beans: Nutritious and flavourful, these go well with chicken tenders, especially with a smoky barbecue sauce.
• Mashed potatoes: A hearty and nutritional side that can be made even more delicious with the addition of cheese or sour cream.
• Macaroni and cheese: The perfect comfort food to pair with tenders, just remember to keep the top layer moist.
• Rice: A great base for a saucy chicken tender dish, especially rice pilaf which can be made with vegetables for added flavour and colour.
• Vegetables: Chicken tenders go well with a variety of vegetables, including broccoli, carrots, corn, asparagus, and zucchini. These can be served as a healthy alternative to fries or chips, or included in a salad.

Presentation

When serving chicken tenders, it's a good idea to have a variety of textures and temperatures on the plate. For example, if serving rice and vegetables, consider serving the rice hot and the vegetables cold. You can also get creative with presentation by using different sauces for dipping or drizzling over the tenders.

Drinks

Finally, don't forget to pair your meal with a refreshing drink. Iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer would all go well with chicken tenders, depending on your preference.

With these tips, you're ready to serve up some delicious chicken tenders that are sure to impress!

Frequently asked questions