Skip the drive-thru—these golden, juicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are far better and ready in minutes. Crispy seasoned breading on the outside and tender white meat inside, with a low-carb option included.
Healthy Homemade Chicken Strips in the Air Fryer
Chicken tenders are a universal favorite—loved by kids and adults alike. When breaded and cooked until golden and crunchy, they make an irresistible meal. They pair with everything from fresh salads and mashed potatoes to fries and honey mustard.
If you crave deep-fried flavor without the mess or oil, the air fryer is the perfect solution. It replicates that crisp exterior while keeping the inside juicy. This recipe delivers quick, flavorful tenders with a crunchy seasoned coating—plus keto-friendly substitutions if you want lower carbs.
What You’ll Need
This recipe uses basic pantry staples and offers keto-friendly swaps so you can adapt it to your diet.
- Chicken tenders: use chicken tenderloins for best results.
- Flour: all-purpose flour works; substitute coconut flour for a lower-carb option.
- Panko crumbs: regular panko yields extra crunch; use pork rind crumbs as a low-carb alternative.
- Salt and pepper to taste.
- Buttermilk: a small amount helps keep the meat tender and adds flavor.
- Eggs: large whole eggs or egg whites.
- Dipping sauces: ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, ranch, or your favorites.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Setting up a breading station makes the process smooth and less messy. Have three shallow bowls ready: flour, egg-and-buttermilk, and crumbs. Use a damp towel to keep hands clean while you work.
- Prep the chicken and bowls. Pat tenders dry and arrange three shallow bowls: flour, egg mixed with buttermilk, and crumbs.
- Bread the tenders. Dip each tender in flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the crumbs. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and lightly grease the basket.
- Air fry. Place tenders in a single layer without crowding. Cook 5 minutes, flip, then cook another 5 minutes until golden and cooked through.
- Finish the rest. Work in batches if needed. Repeat the same breading and cooking steps for remaining tenders.
- Serve. Transfer to a plate and serve hot with your favorite sauces and sides.
Do You Have to Preheat an Air Fryer?
Opinions vary, but preheating is recommended. Air fryers heat up quickly, yet starting with a hot basket gives more consistent results and better crisping. Preheating usually only takes a minute or two.
Can You Put Aluminum Foil in an Air Fryer?
You can line the basket with foil to simplify cleanup, but keep the foil contained inside the basket with no loose edges. Parchment liners are also an option—check temperature limits and be sure to poke holes so air circulates freely.
Tips for Success
Follow these tips for crunchy, evenly cooked tenders every time.
- Don’t crowd the basket: give each piece space so hot air can circulate. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Avoid aerosol sprays: use a refillable oil sprayer or brush oil on the basket to protect the air fryer’s finish.
- Double the recipe: this makes four servings, but you can easily double and cook in batches for a crowd.
- Customize seasoning: add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or herbs to the flour or crumbs to boost flavor.
Yummy Serving Suggestions
Air fryer chicken tenders work as a starter or a main. Pair them with hearty sides to complete the meal. Ideas:
- Potato wedges: oven-roasted or grilled, seasoned wedges make a satisfying side.
- Stuffed avocado: a simple, flavorful side that adds healthy fats and freshness.
- Macaroni salad: creamy, crunchy, and make-ahead friendly for easy meal prep.
Storing and Reheating Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
- To store: keep leftovers in an airtight container or zip-top bag in the fridge for 3–4 days.
- To reheat: briefly air-fry or bake at 375°F until heated through to restore crispiness.
Can I Freeze Homemade Chicken Strips?
Yes. For raw, breaded tenders, freeze them on a parchment-lined sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to one month. Cook directly from frozen, adding a little extra time. For cooked tenders, freeze on a sheet first, then store in a container for up to four months—thaw before reheating when possible to avoid drying out.
Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 to 1½ pound chicken tenders
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour (or coconut flour)
- 2 cups panko or pork rind crumbs
- salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- ¼ cup buttermilk
- 2 whole eggs
- dipping sauces for serving
Instructions
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Pat dry the chicken tenders with paper towels; set aside.
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Place the flour in a large shallow bowl.
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Place the crumbs in a separate shallow bowl.
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Whisk together the buttermilk and eggs; place in a third bowl.
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Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with oil.
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Working one at a time, dip each tender in flour, then the egg mixture, then the crumbs.
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Preheat the air fryer to 400°F.
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Arrange tenders in the basket without crowding; cook 5 minutes, flip, and cook 5 more minutes.
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Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 37 g |
Protein: 53 g |
Fat: 12 g
Nutritional info is an estimate. Values may vary based on ingredients and methods used.
More Easy Chicken Recipes
- Homemade Popcorn Chicken
- Easy Instant Pot Orange Chicken
- Chicken and Vegetables Sheet Pan Dinner