This air-fryer chicken tender recipe delivers a crispy, flavorful bite in minutes, offering a healthier take on a classic favorite.
I live and work on the road in a tiny camper, but I still managed to make room for my all-in-one oven and air fryer. I need to have protein-packed meals on the fly, and the air fryer has become my new best friend. It’s one of the easiest ways to make tasty comfort foods healthier, and all at the drop of a hat. While it’s easy enough to grab frozen chicken tenders at the market, I’d rather make my own foods and serve my family healthy, home-cooked meals instead.
This recipe for chicken tenders is one I keep on rotation. It’s ideal for food prepping, and I often make a larger batch and store it in the fridge to use for quick lunches. Traditional chicken tenders often require breading and frying, but this recipe keeps it simple and healthy by using a touch of oil and some salt seasoning for extra flavor. The result is a juicy chicken tender that’s got all the flavor and none of the extra ingredients we don’t want.
Whether you’ve got plenty of counter space or just room enough for a mini air fryer, whip up this easy recipe the next time you’re in the mood for diner-inspired chicken tenders. If you’re used to breaded and fried, we promise you won’t miss a thing. The flavor and texture of these juicy tenders are out of this world.
Are These Chicken Tenders Healthy?
These chicken tenders are packed with protein and use just a touch of oil. They can be a healthy addition to your diet, especially when served up with a side of veggies and some whole grains. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider swapping the salt seasoning for plain dried herbs or spices, such as garlic powder or lemon pepper.
Tasty Seasoning Tips
The great thing about this recipe is that it’s a blank canvas, allowing you to customize it to your tastes and the type of meals you’ll be serving. Making an Italian-inspired dinner, for example? Try a blend of garlic powder, dried oregano, and thyme. For an Asian preparation, season the chicken tenders with Chinese five-spice powder, dried lemongrass, and black pepper. In the mood for Mexican tonight? Make a spicy blend with chili powder, dried cumin, paprika powder, and dried coriander. A delicious Indian blend would feature curry powder, garam masala, and perhaps some chili flakes. French feast? Season your chicken tenders with fragrant herbes de Provence or subtly spicy piment d’Espelette. Choices aplenty!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Once completely cooled, leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be consumed within 3 to 4 days. The chicken tenders can also be frozen in a Ziploc bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken tenders are a classic comfort food, so go ahead and serve them alongside whatever you desire. I would suggest baking up some Crispy Baked Sweet Potato Fries or Parsnip Fries and serving alongside a flavorful Kale Salad With Cranberries to add just a touch of green goodness to your plate. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with a bowl of creamy, protein-packed Cottage Cheese Ice Cream.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- Seasoning salt
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 380℉.
- Toss the chicken tenders with oil and then sprinkle generously with seasoning salt (no need to measure).
- Bake for 8-10 minutes, until an instant read thermometer reads 165℉.
- DEVOUR!
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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