Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)

Craving crispy, juicy chicken tenders without the hassle of breading? This easy air fryer recipe is the perfect solution! With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have flavorful, perfectly cooked chicken tenders in under 30 minutes—no frying or breading required! If you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish that will impress at your next family gathering, these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) will be a hit.

What I love most about this recipe is how it keeps things simple while delivering on taste. You can whip these up in no time, making them ideal for busy days when you still want something delicious and satisfying. Plus, they’re always a crowd-pleaser, especially with kids!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: You can prepare these chicken tenders in just 25 minutes from start to finish!
• Healthier Option: With no breading, these tenders are lower in calories but still packed with flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the savory spices that make each bite irresistible.
• Versatile: Great for meal prep or as a main dish at any gathering; they pair well with various sides!
• Perfectly Juicy: The air fryer locks in moisture while giving you that satisfying crunch without all the oil.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These are things you likely already have in your pantry. They come together beautifully to create juicy and flavorful chicken tenders that everyone will enjoy.

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 ½ tbsp olive oil

For the Seasoning

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 2 tsp onion powder
• 2 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• ½ – 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp dried basil

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Try using boneless skinless chicken breasts or even turkey tenders for a different twist.
• Change the spices: Experiment with different seasonings like lemon pepper or Italian herbs for unique flavors.
• Add some crunch: For an extra texture boost, toss in some crushed nuts like almonds or pecans before cooking.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add more cayenne pepper or try adding some chili powder for a kick!

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. This step is crucial because it ensures that your chicken tenders cook evenly and get that beautiful golden-brown color. Preheating also helps maintain temperature during cooking.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and place them in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and toss to coat evenly. Drying the chicken helps achieve that crispy exterior. The olive oil not only adds flavor but also aids in browning during cooking.

Step 3: Mix the Seasonings

In a separate small bowl, combine all your seasonings. Sprinkle this spice mix over the chicken tenders and ensure they’re well coated. This step is where all the magic happens! The blend of spices creates an explosion of flavor that makes these tenders irresistible.

Step 4: Cook Your Chicken Tenders

Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in the air fryer basket and cook for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through cooking until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them; air fryers can vary slightly in cooking times! You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

And there you have it! Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) as they become your new favorite go-to dish for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)

Making chicken tenders in the air fryer is simple, but a few extra tips can help you achieve perfection every time!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and spices have a much more vibrant flavor than older ones. This ensures your chicken tenders are juicy and packed with taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cooking the tenders in batches allows hot air to circulate around them, resulting in an even cook and crispy exterior. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of crisp.
• Flip Halfway Through Cooking: Flipping the chicken tenders ensures that both sides get that beautiful golden brown color and evenly cooked texture. It also helps them crisp up nicely!
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to customize the amount of cayenne pepper according to your heat tolerance. This way, you can enjoy the dish just as you like it—spicy or mild!
• Let Them Rest Before Serving: Allowing the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps redistribute the juices, making them even juicier when you take that first bite.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)

Serving your air fryer chicken tenders is a great chance to get creative! Here are some ideas to make your meal truly shine.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating brightens up the dish and adds a zesty kick that complements the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These are a delightful complement with their sweet yet savory flavor. They’re easy to prepare in the air fryer too!
• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli provides a nutritious contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken. Plus, it’s quick to steam while your tenders are cooking.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with veggies not only adds texture but also offers a refreshing side. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for extra crunch!
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad dressed with olive oil and vinegar pairs well with the richness of chicken tenders, offering balance to your meal while adding freshness.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll create a deliciously satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table! Enjoy your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) alongside these sides and garnishes for an unforgettable dining experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and have delicious, healthy protein ready to go for the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• For best flavor, consume them within the first two days.

Freezing

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before freezing.
• Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F for reheating.
• Place the frozen or refrigerated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket.
• Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until heated through and crispy again.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) without olive oil?

Yes! You can substitute olive oil with other oils like avocado or coconut oil. Just ensure it’s a high smoke point oil suitable for air frying.

How do I ensure my Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) are juicy?

To keep the chicken tenders juicy, avoid overcooking them. Use a meat thermometer to check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?

Absolutely! You can cut chicken breast into strips to make your own tenders. Just adjust the cooking time as needed since they may take longer than pre-cut tenders.

What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?

These tenders are delicious with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a spicy sriracha mayo. Feel free to get creative!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) as much as I do! They’re not only simple and quick but also packed with flavor and healthy goodness. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a hassle-free dinner idea, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Happy cooking!