Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Frozen Treat

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. The cooking time varies depending on the size and model of the air fryer, but generally, it takes around 10-15 minutes to cook frozen chicken tenders. This method is perfect for a quick lunch or a last-minute dinner, and it's also a great way to help your kids learn some independence in the kitchen.

Preheat the air fryer to 360-400°F

Preheating your air fryer to 360-400°F is a crucial step in achieving the perfect chicken tenders. This temperature range ensures that your tenders will cook evenly and efficiently, resulting in juicy and tender meat with a crispy exterior.

When preheating your air fryer, it is important to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines. Each air fryer model may have specific recommendations for preheating, including the ideal temperature and time settings. Following these instructions will help you achieve the best results and avoid undercooking or overcooking your chicken tenders.

While preheating, you can also prepare your chicken tenders. It is recommended to rinse the frozen tenders under cold running water to remove any ice buildup. Pat them dry with paper towels before placing them in the air fryer. This step ensures that the cooking process is not affected by any ice or moisture on the tenders.

Once your air fryer reaches the desired temperature of 360-400°F, you can carefully place the chicken tenders into the basket. Ensure that they are arranged in a single layer and do not overlap, as this will allow for even cooking. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook the tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding.

By preheating your air fryer to the recommended temperature range, you are creating the optimal cooking environment for your chicken tenders. This step sets the foundation for delicious and perfectly cooked tenders that your family or guests will surely enjoy.

Remember, the preheating process may vary slightly between different air fryer models, so always refer to your specific model's instructions for the best results.

Rinse and pat dry the chicken tenders

Rinsing your chicken tenders before cooking is a good idea to ensure that any ice residue is removed. It is also a good food safety practice, as it reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.

To do this, simply hold the chicken tenders under cold running water for a few seconds, gently rubbing them with your fingers to dislodge any ice or dirt.

After rinsing, it is important to pat the chicken tenders dry with a clean paper towel. This is because the water can form a barrier on the surface of the meat, preventing it from browning properly during cooking. It can also cause oil splatter if you are frying the chicken.

By patting the tenders dry, you also help to remove any excess moisture, which can make the chicken tenders soggy and affect the texture of the breading. It is important to ensure that the tenders are as dry as possible before placing them in the air fryer.

Some recipes suggest spraying the chicken tenders with a light coating of oil after rinsing and drying. This is said to help achieve a crispier texture, although it is not necessary. If you do choose to use oil, avocado oil or olive oil spray are good options.

Once you have rinsed and patted dry your chicken tenders, you can proceed to season and cook them according to your preferred recipe.

Spray the tenders with oil

Spraying the chicken tenders with oil is an optional step when cooking frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer. It helps to make the tenders crispier and gives them a golden colour. You can use a neutral spray oil, or olive oil and avocado oil are also recommended.

If you decide to spray the tenders with oil, it is important to do so before placing them in the air fryer. This will help ensure that the oil is distributed evenly and that the tenders cook evenly.

When spraying the tenders with oil, it is best to use a light spritz or spray. There is no need to douse the tenders in oil, as this can make them greasy and less crispy. A light coating of oil is all that is needed to help achieve the desired texture and colour.

In addition to oil, you may also choose to season the tenders with salt and pepper or other desired seasonings. This can be done before or after spraying with oil, depending on your preference.

By following these instructions and spraying the tenders with oil, you can help ensure that your frozen chicken tenders come out crispy and golden when cooked in the air fryer.

Place the tenders in the fryer basket, leaving space between each one

When placing the frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, it's important to leave some space between each tender. This is to ensure that all sides of the tenders become crisp. Overcrowding the basket can make this difficult and may result in uneven cooking. You may need to cook the tenders in batches, depending on the size of your air fryer.

It's also worth noting that if you're cooking chicken tenders of varying sizes, it's best to cook similarly-sized tenders together. Smaller tenders will cook much faster than larger ones, and you run the risk of them overcooking.

Some recipes suggest spraying the tenders with a light coating of oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil, before placing them in the air fryer. This will help to achieve a golden colour and a crispier texture. However, this step is not necessary, as the tenders will still become crispy without it.

Once you've placed the tenders in the basket with some space between them, you can proceed to cook them in the air fryer. The cooking time and temperature will depend on the specific model of your air fryer, but most recipes suggest cooking frozen chicken tenders for around 10-15 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

Remember to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders before serving. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the centre of the thickest part of the tender should read at least 165°F (74°C).

Cook for 7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 3-5 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!

To get started, you'll want to preheat your air fryer to 400°F. While it's heating up, you can prepare your chicken tenders by rinsing them under cold water to wash off any ice, then patting them dry with paper towels. This step is optional but ensures that your tenders are dry before cooking, which can help with achieving that crispy texture.

Once your air fryer is preheated, it's time to arrange the chicken tenders in the basket. Make sure they are in a single, flat layer and that they don't overlap. This is important to ensure even cooking and to avoid overcrowding the basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.

Now, it's time to start cooking! Place the basket of chicken tenders into the preheated air fryer and cook for 7 minutes. After 7 minutes, you'll want to pause the air fryer and carefully flip each tender over. Return the basket to the air fryer and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This second cooking period is to ensure that your tenders are crispy and cooked through completely.

The total cooking time in the air fryer is approximately 10-12 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness. It's important to keep an eye on your tenders during this process, as air fryers can vary in temperature and cooking time. You may also need to adjust the cooking time based on the thickness and size of your chicken tenders, as well as the amount of breading.

Once your tenders are golden and crispy, remove the basket from the air fryer and transfer the chicken tenders to serving plates. They are now ready to be enjoyed with your desired sides and dipping sauces!

Frequently asked questions