Description
Crispy, golden brown air fryer chicken tenders made with a seasoned breadcrumb coating and a flavorful buttermilk batter. These chicken tenders are quick to prepare, healthier than traditional frying, and perfect for a delicious snack or meal served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 – 2 lbs. chicken tenderloins (about 12–16 pieces)
- 3/4 cup milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vinegar
- 1 egg
- 1–2 teaspoons hot sauce (optional)
Dry Coating Mix
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- one 1-ounce packet ranch seasoning (optional)
- 2 1/2 cups plain breadcrumbs
- 2 1/2 tablespoons seasoning mix (such as McCormick rotisserie chicken seasoning)
Other
- Avocado oil spray
Instructions
- Prep your dipping stations: Set up three shallow plates or bowls—one for the flour mixture, one for the wet buttermilk-egg batter, and one for the breadcrumb seasoning mix. This assembly line will make breading the chicken tenders efficient and clean.
- Make the coatings: In the first bowl, combine the flour, kosher salt, and ranch seasoning if using. In a second bowl, whisk together the milk and vinegar, then let it sit for 5 minutes to create a buttermilk base. After resting, mix in the egg and optional hot sauce. In the third bowl, mix the plain breadcrumbs with the seasoning blend.
- Flatten chicken tenderloins: On a cutting board, gently press each chicken tenderloin a few times with the flat side of a knife to slightly flatten or fan out the pieces. This helps them cook evenly and more quickly.
- Batter up: One at a time, dredge each chicken tenderloin first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the buttermilk mixture, allowing excess to drip off. Finally, coat thoroughly with the seasoning breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing to adhere the coating all around. Set coated tenders aside on a plate.
- Arrange in air fryer: Place as many chicken tenders as will fit in a single flat layer in your air fryer basket, usually about 6 pieces. Lightly and evenly spray them with avocado oil spray; this promotes a golden, crispy crust.
- Air fry the tenders: Cook the tenders at 400°F (204°C) for 7 to 9 minutes. They should turn a beautiful golden brown on the outside. Check that the internal temperature reaches between 165-175°F (74-79°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve them hot with your choice of dipping sauce. Enjoy these crispy, juicy tenders as a snack or meal!
Notes
- The ranch seasoning packet is optional but adds extra flavor to the flour mixture.
- Adjust hot sauce amount in the buttermilk batter according to your spice preference.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through by checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- You can substitute plain breadcrumbs with panko for an even crispier texture.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed to ensure even crisping.
- Avocado oil spray helps achieve a golden crust similar to frying without excess oil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Snack
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, easy chicken recipe, breaded chicken, quick snack, healthy fried chicken alternative
