Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders: Quick, Easy, Delicious

Cooking frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to get crispy, juicy, and tender chicken without the need for deep frying in oil. It's a convenient method for a last-minute meal, and you can use both precooked and raw chicken tenders straight from the freezer.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. It helps the outside of the chicken get as crispy as possible without overcooking the chicken. Preheat your air fryer to 350-400 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are using a meat thermometer, the ideal temperature for cooked chicken is 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

When preheating your air fryer, it is important to note that the temperature and time may vary depending on the model of your air fryer and the size of the chicken tenders. Adjust the temperature and time accordingly to ensure that your chicken is cooked thoroughly. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for your specific air fryer model to ensure safe and proper use.

If you are cooking frozen chicken tenders, it is recommended to place them in the air fryer basket or tray in a single layer to allow them to cook evenly. This will help ensure that the chicken tenders cook through completely and achieve the desired crispiness. It is also important to avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure even cooking. Work in batches if necessary.

For best results, shake the basket a couple of times during the cooking process to ensure that the chicken tenders are cooked evenly on all sides. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness and size of the chicken tenders, so it is important to keep an eye on them and adjust the time as needed.

Arrange chicken tenders in the fryer basket

When arranging chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, it is important to ensure they are in a single, flat, and even layer. This allows for optimal cooking and crispiness. If you have a variety of sizes, try to cook similarly-sized tenders together to avoid overcooking smaller pieces. Space them out to allow for air circulation, but it is fine if they touch slightly.

If you are cooking a large batch, it is recommended to work in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket. This will ensure even cooking and crispiness for all tenders. If you are cooking larger pieces, you may need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

You can spritz the tenders with a neutral spray oil to enhance crispiness, but this is not necessary as they will still turn out crispy without it.

Once you have arranged the tenders in the basket, you can proceed to cook them according to your desired level of crispiness and doneness.

Remember to always preheat your air fryer before adding the chicken tenders. This helps to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Cooking times and temperatures

The cooking time and temperature for frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer depend on several factors, including the size of the chicken tenders, the specific air fryer being used, and personal preferences for crispiness and doneness. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get perfectly cooked chicken tenders every time:

Preheating the Air Fryer:

Firstly, preheat your air fryer. Some sources recommend preheating to 360 degrees Fahrenheit, while others suggest 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The ideal temperature may depend on your air fryer and the level of crispiness you desire.

Preparing the Chicken Tenders:

While the air fryer is preheating, you can prepare the chicken tenders. Place them in a single, flat, even layer in the air fryer basket or tray, ensuring they don't overlap too much to allow for proper air circulation. If you have a variety of sizes, try to group similarly sized tenders together, as smaller ones may cook faster and risk overcooking before larger ones are ready.

Cooking the Chicken Tenders:

Now, you're ready to cook your chicken tenders. The cooking time will vary depending on the size of the tenders and your desired level of crispiness. For pre-cooked frozen tenders, cooking for about 12 minutes at 360 degrees Fahrenheit should be sufficient. Flip the tenders halfway through to ensure even cooking. If you prefer your tenders extra crispy, you may cook them for a few additional minutes. For raw chicken tenderloins, you may need to adjust the cooking time and temperature, aiming for an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit when measured with a meat thermometer.

Checking for Doneness:

To ensure your chicken tenders are cooked thoroughly, check that the juices run clear and there is no pink color in the center. According to food safety guidelines, chicken should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Allow the tenders to rest for a minute or two after cooking to lock in the juices before serving.

Reheating and Storing:

If you have any leftovers, you can easily reheat them in your air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the tenders for about 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through. After cooking, let the chicken tenders cool to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Flipping the tenders

If you are cooking raw chicken tenders, you should cook them for around 10-12 minutes, flipping them once halfway through. This will ensure that they are cooked through and golden on the outside, with an internal temperature of 165°F. It is important to note that thicker chicken tenders may take a little longer to cook through, so adjust your timing accordingly.

For pre-cooked tenders, you can cook them for a shorter amount of time, around 7 minutes, and then flip them. After flipping, cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they are crispy and cooked through. Again, it is important to ensure that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure food safety.

When flipping your tenders, use tongs or a spatula to carefully turn them over. This will help to prevent any sticking or tearing of the chicken. It is also important to ensure that you do not overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking and make flipping the tenders more difficult. Work in batches if necessary to ensure that there is enough space for air to circulate and for you to easily flip the tenders.

Finally, after removing the tenders from the air fryer, allow them to sit for a minute or two. This will help to lock in the juices and ensure that your chicken tenders are tender and juicy, in addition to being crispy and golden.

Serving suggestions

Air fryer frozen chicken tenders are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to get you started:

• Sides and Dipping Sauces: Serve the chicken tenders with your favourite sides and dipping sauces. Some classic options include ketchup, ranch, BBQ sauce, honey sriracha sauce, and buffalo sauce. For a low-carb option, opt for a keto-friendly dipping sauce.
• Vegetables: If you're looking for a healthier option, serve the chicken tenders with roasted or steamed vegetables such as asparagus, carrots, or green beans. You can also pair them with a fresh salad.
• Potato Sides: For a heartier meal, pair the chicken tenders with potato sides such as French fries, tater tots, sweet potato fries, or onion rings.
• Meal Prep: Air fryer frozen chicken tenders are also great for meal prep. Cook a batch and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through.
• Customise with Seasonings: Experiment with different seasonings to add extra flavour to your chicken tenders. Try options like salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, or Italian herbs. You can also coat the chicken tenders in olive oil before seasoning for added moisture.
• Crispy Coating: For an extra crispy coating, give the chicken tenders a light spritz with a neutral spray oil before air frying. This will help create a crunchy texture without the need for deep frying.

Frequently asked questions