Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: The Quick Freeze Method

Cooking frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get that crispy, golden texture without the need for deep frying in oil. It's a healthier option that doesn't compromise on taste and can be ready in as little as 10 minutes. So, if you're short on time and want a delicious meal, this could be the perfect solution.

How long frozen chicken tenders air fryer?

Preheat the air fryer to 360-400°F

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. By preheating the air fryer to 360-400°F, you create the optimal temperature environment for cooking frozen chicken tenders. This temperature range ensures that the chicken tenders cook evenly and efficiently, resulting in a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

When preheating your air fryer, it is advisable to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines. Different air fryer models may have specific preheating functions or recommendations. Following these instructions will help you achieve the best results and maintain the longevity of your appliance.

Maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial for even cooking. Preheating the air fryer to the desired temperature range of 360-400°F ensures that the chicken tenders are exposed to a consistent heat level throughout the cooking process. This temperature range is high enough to cook the tenders thoroughly without burning or overcooking them.

Additionally, preheating the air fryer helps reduce the overall cooking time. By starting the cooking process at a higher temperature, you can shorten the time needed to reach the desired internal temperature of the chicken tenders. This is especially beneficial when you are short on time or preparing a quick meal.

During the preheating process, the air fryer's heating elements work to elevate the temperature inside the cooking chamber. This step is similar to preheating a conventional oven. By allowing the air fryer to reach the desired temperature before adding the chicken tenders, you create a consistent and controlled cooking environment.

Once the air fryer reaches the desired temperature of 360-400°F, you can confidently proceed with the next steps of the recipe. Place the frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are arranged in a single layer without overcrowding. This arrangement allows hot air to circulate around each tender, promoting even cooking and browning.

Place frozen chicken tenders in the basket

When placing frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, it's important to ensure they are in a single layer and not overlapping. This will allow for even cooking and crispiness. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket.

It is also recommended to leave some space between each tender to ensure proper air circulation and crispiness on all sides. You can spray the tops of the tenders with olive oil or avocado oil spray before placing them in the basket. This will help achieve a golden colour and crispier texture, mimicking deep-fried chicken tenders. However, this step is optional, as the tenders will still turn out crispy without any added oil.

If you are using fully cooked frozen chicken tenders, you are simply looking to thaw, warm up the insides, and crisp up the outsides. On the other hand, if you are using frozen raw chicken tenders, you will need to adjust the cooking time to ensure they are cooked through to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

The cooking time and temperature may vary depending on the brand and size of your air fryer, as well as the thickness and size of the chicken tenders. It is important to keep an eye on the tenders and adjust the time as needed. For example, smaller tenders will cook faster than larger ones, and you risk overcooking them if they are cooked together for the same duration.

Spray with avocado/olive oil for crispiness

Cooking Frozen Chicken Tenders in an Air Fryer

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to cook frozen chicken tenders, your air fryer is a great option. The cooking time will depend on the size and model of your air fryer, as well as the quantity of chicken tenders you're cooking, but on average, you're looking at around 10-12 minutes at 390°F (200°C).

For best results, it's recommended to spray the chicken tenders with avocado or olive oil before cooking. This simple step will ensure your tenders are crispy on the outside, while still being juicy and tender on the inside – the perfect combination!

So, how do you do it? It couldn't be simpler. First, preheat your air fryer to 390°F (200°C). While it's heating up, take your frozen chicken tenders out of the package and arrange them in a single layer on a plate or tray. Spray them generously with avocado or olive oil – this will help the tenders crisp up and turn a delicious golden brown. Make sure you use an oil with a high smoke point, like avocado or olive oil, as these are perfect for cooking at high temperatures and will help create that crispy texture you're after.

Once your air fryer is preheated, carefully place the chicken tenders inside, making sure they're not overcrowded, and set the timer for 5 minutes. When the 5 minutes is up, flip the tenders and give them another light spray of oil. This will ensure even cooking and help maintain that crispy texture. Set the timer for another 5-7 minutes, depending on how thick your tenders are and how crispy you like them. Keep a watchful eye on them to prevent overcooking or burning.

And there you have it! A quick, tasty, and healthy meal with minimal effort.

Cook for 7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 2-5 minutes

Cooking frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get that crispy, golden texture without the need for deep frying in oil. It's a healthier option that doesn't compromise on taste and is perfect for a busy weeknight meal.

To get started, you'll want to preheat your air fryer to around 360-400°F (180°C). While the air fryer is heating up, you can prepare your frozen chicken tenders. It's important to ensure that the chicken tenders are in a single layer and not overlapping in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding the basket will impact the crispiness of the tenders. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the tenders in batches.

Once the air fryer has preheated, place the basket inside and set the timer for 7 minutes. After 7 minutes, you'll want to flip the tenders or shake the basket to ensure even cooking. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 2 to 5 minutes. The total cook time will depend on the thickness and size of the tenders, as well as the breading.

Keep an eye on your chicken tenders during the final few minutes of cooking. You're aiming for a golden, crispy exterior and a cooked interior. The internal temperature of the chicken tenders should reach at least 165°F (74°C). If you're unsure, it's always a good idea to use an instant-read meat thermometer to check that the chicken is fully cooked before serving.

Once the chicken tenders are cooked to your desired level of doneness, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. They go well with a variety of dipping sauces and sides, such as waffle fries or a salad.

Serve immediately

When it comes to serving your chicken tenders, it's best to do so immediately. This is because they will be at their crispiest and juiciest straight out of the air fryer. You can serve them as finger food with a dipping sauce, or slice them up and put them on a salad.

If you're making a large batch, it's best to cook them in several smaller batches to ensure they all stay warm and crispy. You can keep them warm in the oven, on a very low heat, while you cook the rest.

If you're serving them with a sauce, you can be creative! Try something spicy, or a classic like honey mustard. You could also serve them with a side of fries, cooked in the air fryer, of course.

For a healthier option, serve the tenders with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. If you're cooking for kids, you could cut the tenders into strips and serve them on a bed of lettuce with some tomato and cucumber.

The great thing about chicken tenders is their versatility. You can serve them as a main course, a side dish, or even an appetizer. They're also perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal, and the whole family will love them!

Frequently asked questions