Fryer Tenders: Optimal Cooking Time For Juicy Results

Chicken tenders are a versatile dish that can be cooked in an air fryer or deep fryer. The cooking time varies depending on whether the tenders are frozen, pre-cooked, or raw, and whether they are breaded or unbreaded. For example, raw chicken tenders in an air fryer will take around 7-12 minutes, whereas frozen pre-cooked tenders will take 8-12 minutes.

How long to cook raw chicken tenders in an air fryer

Chicken tenders are a great, quick and easy meal to make in the air fryer. They're also a healthier alternative to frying, as they require much less oil.

It takes around 10-12 minutes to cook raw chicken tenders in an air fryer, depending on the thickness of the chicken and the model of the air fryer. You should flip the tenders halfway through the cooking process.

Preheat your air fryer to between 375-400°F.

Chicken tenders are done when their internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer.

Any tips?

• Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the tenders in batches if necessary.
• Always preheat the air fryer before adding the chicken to ensure the outsides get crispy without overcooking the insides.
• For crispy chicken tenders, spray them with cooking spray or oil before cooking.
• For extra juicy tenders, brine the chicken for 30 minutes before cooking.

How to season chicken tenders before frying

Chicken tenders are a versatile dish that can be seasoned in a variety of ways to enhance their flavour. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season chicken tenders before frying:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This step is important as it helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and ensures a crispy texture after frying. Place the chicken tenders in a large mixing bowl or on a shallow dish.

Step 2: Choose Your Seasonings

The choice of seasonings depends on your personal preference and the desired flavour profile. Some popular options include:

• Salt and pepper
• Smoked paprika or regular paprika
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Dried thyme, oregano, and basil (or Italian seasoning)
• Cayenne pepper

You can also get creative and experiment with other herbs and spices, such as rosemary, red pepper flakes, or cumin.

Step 3: Mix the Seasonings

In a small bowl, combine your chosen seasonings and mix well. You can adjust the quantities of each seasoning to your taste. It is important to taste the seasoning mixture to ensure it suits your preference.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Generously sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken tenders, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Use your hands to gently rub the seasonings into the chicken, making sure they are well coated.

Step 5: Let the Chicken Rest

Before frying, let the seasoned chicken tenders rest for a few minutes. This allows the seasonings to fully absorb into the chicken and enhances the flavour. You can also prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and let them marinate in the refrigerator for a more intense flavour.

Step 6: Fry the Chicken Tenders

Follow the instructions for frying the chicken tenders, whether you are using an air fryer, skillet, or deep fryer. The cooking time and temperature will vary depending on your chosen cooking method.

Tips for Frying Chicken Tenders:

• Always preheat your air fryer or oven before cooking chicken tenders to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• When frying in a skillet, heat the oil for about one minute over medium heat before adding the chicken.
• For crispy chicken tenders, avoid overcrowding the air fryer or skillet. Cook the chicken tenders in batches if necessary.
• Use a meat thermometer to check the doneness of the chicken tenders. They are fully cooked when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• For breaded chicken tenders, taste the seasoning mixture before coating the chicken to ensure it suits your preference.
• If using frozen chicken tenders, thaw them before seasoning to ensure proper flavour and texture.

How to store leftover chicken tenders

It's important to know how to store cooked chicken safely. Here is a detailed guide on how to store leftover chicken tenders, so you can enjoy them later while ensuring food safety.

Storing Leftover Chicken Tenders in the Fridge

Allow the cooked chicken tenders to cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them into an airtight container or sealable bag. Store the container in the refrigerator, which should be set to 40°F. Leftover chicken tenders will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. However, the USDA recommends not keeping cooked chicken in the fridge for longer than 3-4 days, as bacteria may develop over time.

Storing Leftover Chicken Tenders in the Freezer

If you don't plan on eating the leftover chicken tenders within 3-4 days, it's best to freeze them. First, let the tenders cool down to room temperature. Then, for extra precaution, wrap each tender individually in plastic wrap or aluminium foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This extra step will help prevent freezer burn and maintain flavour. Label the container with the storage date and place it in the freezer, which should be set to 0°F. Frozen cooked chicken tenders will stay fresh for up to 4 months. After this time, they may start to lose flavour and freshness.

Reheating Chicken Tenders

Leftover chicken tenders can be reheated in an oven, air fryer, or microwave. If using an oven, preheat it to 400°F and place the tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet. Reheat until the tenders are hot and crispy, about 10 minutes for room-temperature tenders or 20 minutes for frozen tenders. You can also reheat chicken tenders in a preheated air fryer at 350°F for about 3-5 minutes. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, ensuring you remove any foil or metal packaging.

Using Leftover Chicken Tenders

Leftover chicken tenders are versatile and can be used in various dishes. You can use them in sandwiches, tacos, salads, casseroles, or pizzas. You can also add them to pasta dishes, such as chicken Parmesan, or serve them with your favourite sides, such as French fries, tater tots, or onion rings.

How to cook frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer

Pre-cooked frozen tenders

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F/200°C for 5 minutes. Place the frozen tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. For pre-cooked tenders, air fry for 8-12 minutes, depending on their size and thickness. Flip them halfway through to ensure even cooking. Leave them to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Uncooked frozen tenders

Preheat your air fryer to 400ºF/200ºC for 5 minutes. Place the frozen tenders in a single layer in your air fryer basket, ensuring they don't overlap. For uncooked frozen tenders, air fry for 22-28 minutes, depending on their size, flipping them halfway through. For crispier tenders, spray both sides lightly with cooking oil. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165ºF/74ºC. Leave them to rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Tips

• Avoid cooking sprays like PAM, which can ruin the air fryer's non-stick lining.
• Don't overcrowd the basket. Leaving space between the tenders allows air to circulate and produce crispier results. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Cooking time may vary depending on the size of the tenders and your air fryer, so check the temperature and adjust the timing as needed.
• Always preheat the air fryer before adding the frozen tenders. This helps the outside of the chicken get as crispy as possible without overcooking.

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 great side dish for chicken tenders, adding both flavor and nutrition. You can serve them plain, air-fried, or roasted. Some options include broccoli, carrots, parsnips, peas, green beans, spinach, cauliflower, beets, onion, and mushrooms. You can also include salads, such as a kale Caesar salad or a mustard greens and kale salad.

Starches

Starchy foods like pasta, bread, rice, oats, potatoes, sweet potatoes, quinoa, corn, beans, and cereals can be an easy and filling side dish for chicken tenders. For example, you could serve mac and cheese, cornbread, or biscuits. Sweet potato fries or tater tots are also a great option, especially if you're looking for something crispy and crunchy.

Fruits

Fruits can be a great side dish for chicken tenders, especially for kids who love the sweetness. You can serve them fresh or prepared in a dish like a creamy Greek yogurt fruit salad or baked oranges with honey whipped feta.

Snacks

If you're looking for a more casual meal, you can pair chicken tenders with snack foods like veggie sticks, grapes, pepperoni, sweet potato apple muffins, or string cheese.

Dips and Sauces

Chicken tenders are often served with dips and sauces, such as ketchup, ranch, honey mustard sauce, barbecue sauce, or honey Sriracha sauce.

Other Sides

Some other easy side dish ideas include garlic bread, corn and bacon fritters, spinach sweet potato tater tots, or broccoli orzo salad.

Frequently asked questions