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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (Extra Crispy) - Fast, Juicy, and Crowd-Pleasing

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds chicken tenders (or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne (optional, for heat)
  • Cooking spray or a neutral oil in a spray bottle
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
  • Your favorite dipping sauces: honey mustard, ranch, BBQ, buffalo, or hot honey

Method
 

  1. Prep the chicken: Pat the tenders dry with paper towels. If using breast strips, aim for similar thickness for even cooking.
  2. Set up a breading station: In one shallow bowl, add the flour, 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and half the garlic powder. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, mix panko with the remaining salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne if using.
  3. Coat the chicken: Dredge each piece in the seasoned flour, shake off excess, dip in egg, then press into the panko mixture until fully coated. For extra crunch, press firmly so the panko adheres well.
  4. Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. A preheated basket helps the coating crisp fast.
  5. Arrange and spray: Place tenders in a single layer with space between them. Lightly spray tops with oil. Do not oversaturate or you’ll soften the crust.
  6. Air fry: Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 8–10 minutes, flipping at the halfway point and lightly spraying again. They’re done when the coating is golden and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
  7. Season and rest: Sprinkle with a pinch of salt right out of the air fryer. Let rest 2 minutes to set the crust.
  8. Serve: Add lemon wedges and your favorite sauces. These are great with a side salad, fries, or slaw.