Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

About This Recipe

Using 2 types of breadcrumbs is my secret to making these air fryer chicken tenders extra crispy. Easy to make and ready so fast!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken tenders (about 14)
• 2 teaspoons kosher salt (divided)
• 2 large eggs
• ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
• ⅓ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
• 2 teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
• Olive oil spray
• Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip
• Barbecue Sauce

Instructions

1. With paper towels, pat the chicken tenders dry. Sprinkle with ½ teaspoon kosher salt.
2. In a shallow bowl (a pie dish works well) beat the eggs together. In a second shallow bowl, stir together the panko, breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, pepper, and remaining 1 ½ teaspoons salt. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and keep it nearby.
3. Coat the chicken tenders: Working a few at a time, dip each piece of chicken into the egg, then into the breadcrumb mixture, patting it gently as needed to adhere. Shake off excess.
4. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with remaining pieces.
5. Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F. If you’d like to keep the chicken warm between batches, turn a regular oven to 250 degrees F. Coat the air fryer basket with the olive oil cooking spray, then add chicken tenders in a single layer so that they are not touching (I can cook 4 at a time). Coat the top of the chicken tenders with oil spray.
6. Cook the chicken for 7 to 8 minutes, pulling out the air fryer basket and flipping the pieces over once halfway through. (The chicken should register at least 165 degrees F on an instant read thermometer and the outsides will be golden brown and crisp.) Repeat with remaining chicken tenders, keeping them warm in the oven between batches as desired. Enjoy hot.