What is the best way to cook chicken tenders in an air fryer?

The best way is to coat your tenders in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, lightly spray them with oil, and cook at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives you juicy meat with a crispy golden crust—without deep frying.

Can I put raw chicken in an air fryer?

Yes, you can! Raw chicken cooks beautifully in an air fryer. Just make sure the tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving. Use a food thermometer to check doneness.

How long to leave raw chicken tenders in the air fryer?

Raw chicken tenders usually take 10–12 minutes at 375°F, depending on thickness. Thicker pieces may need up to 15 minutes. Always flip halfway for even browning.

Why are my chicken tenders not crispy in the air fryer?

If your tenders aren’t crispy, it’s usually because of overcrowding or not using enough oil. Arrange them in a single layer with space between each piece, and lightly spray the breading with cooking oil before cooking.

Should you flip chicken tenders in an air fryer?

Yes. Flipping halfway through ensures both sides cook evenly and stay crispy. Skipping this step can leave one side pale or soggy.

For another easy dinner idea, try my air fryer meatballs

They’re just as quick and delicious.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Amazing Recipe You’ll Love (2025)

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders (fresh or frozen, thawed preferred); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 2 eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative); 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Optional: 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; Optional: cayenne pepper for heat; Cooking spray or oil mister

Description

Crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders made in the air fryer with just a fraction of the oil. Juicy inside, crunchy outside, and ready in minutes for a healthier, family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenders (fresh or frozen, thawed preferred)
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 eggs, beaten
1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free alternative)
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Optional: 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Optional: cayenne pepper for heat
Cooking spray or oil mister

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Instructions

Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
Set up three bowls: one with flour mixed with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper; one with beaten eggs; one with breadcrumbs (plus parmesan if using).
Dip chicken tenders in flour, then egg, then breadcrumbs to coat.
Arrange tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking oil.
Cook fresh tenders for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through. For frozen tenders, cook 14–16 minutes. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Remove and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the basket—cook in batches if necessary. For extra crunch, double-dip tenders in egg and breadcrumbs before cooking.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American