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! Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual family gathering, these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) are sure to be a hit.

What makes this recipe so special is how easy it is to whip up. You can have these delicious tenders on the table in no time, making them perfect for those chaotic evenings when you still want to serve something wholesome and tasty. Plus, they’re great for meal prep—just cook up a batch and enjoy them throughout the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking time, you’ll have dinner ready in under half an hour.
• Healthy and Delicious: These tenders are packed with flavor but low in carbs, making them a guilt-free choice for any meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these juicy chicken tenders. They’re perfect for dipping or enjoying as is!
• No Breading Needed: Skip the mess of traditional frying. The air fryer gives you that crispy texture without any breading.
• Versatile: Great on their own or as part of a larger spread, these tenders fit into any meal plan effortlessly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s the good news: you won’t need any fancy ingredients for this recipe. Just simple, wholesome items that you probably already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need to make these mouthwatering chicken tenders.

For the Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 ½ tbsp olive oil

For the Spice Mix

• 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 super flexible! Feel free to tweak the spices or even switch up the protein if you’re feeling adventurous. Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use boneless skinless chicken breasts or even turkey tenderloins for a different flavor!
• Add some zest: Mix in some lemon zest for a fresh citrus twist that brightens up the dish.
• Spice it up: If you’re feeling bold, add more cayenne pepper or try your favorite hot sauce in place of some of the olive oil.
• Herb infusion: Substitute fresh herbs for dried ones where possible. Fresh basil or thyme can elevate flavors even further!

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F. Preheating ensures that your chicken starts cooking right away, which helps achieve that golden-brown exterior everyone loves.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This step is crucial because it helps the olive oil and spices stick better to the chicken. Place them in a large bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss everything together until each tender is evenly coated.

Step 3: Mix Your Spices

In a separate small bowl, combine all your seasonings: smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, and basil. This spice mix is what brings all that wonderful flavor! Sprinkle it generously over your chicken tenders and toss again so every piece gets coated.

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer

Arrange your seasoned chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes. It’s essential to flip them halfway through cooking; this ensures they cook evenly and get that nice crispiness on both sides!

And there you have it—delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) ready to enjoy! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside some fresh veggies for a complete meal. Happy cooking!

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

Making these chicken tenders is a breeze, but a few handy tips can take your dish to the next level!

• Pat the chicken dry: Removing excess moisture helps achieve that coveted crispy texture. It allows the seasoning to stick better and ensures even cooking.
• Use fresh spices: Fresh spices pack more flavor than older ones. Invest in quality seasonings to make your chicken tenders sing with taste!
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Give your chicken tenders some space in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking, so cook in batches if necessary for the best results.
• Adjust seasoning levels: Feel free to tweak the spice levels according to your preference. If you love heat, increase the cayenne; if you prefer milder flavors, reduce it or skip it altogether!
• Let them rest before serving: Allowing your chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps redistribute juices, ensuring they stay juicy and delicious when served.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)

These air fryer chicken tenders are not only tasty but also versatile! You can serve them in various ways that will impress family and friends alike.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or cilantro adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon wedges: Serving lemon wedges on the side provides a zesty kick that brightens up the dish.
• Dipping sauces: Offer ranch dressing or honey mustard on the side for extra flavor and fun!

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes complements the savory chicken perfectly. Bake or air fry them for a crunchy texture!
• Steamed Broccoli: This nutritious green is easy to prepare and adds vibrant color to your plate while balancing out the meal.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and a squeeze of lemon is refreshing and healthy—a great way to round out your dinner!
• Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots dressed lightly in vinaigrette adds crunch and zest, making it an ideal pairing with tender chicken.

Now you’re ready to serve up some delightful Air Fryer Chicken Tenders that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can make a batch ahead of time to enjoy throughout the week. They’re delicious fresh or reheated, making them a versatile option for busy days.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the cooked chicken tenders cool down first.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave for quicker reheating, but they may not stay as crispy.

FAQs

Have questions? We’ve got answers!

Can I make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) with frozen chicken?

Absolutely! You can use frozen chicken tenders; just increase the cooking time by about 5-7 minutes. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

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

To keep your chicken tenders juicy, make sure not to overcook them. Using olive oil and seasoning them well also helps enhance their moisture and flavor.

Can I use other spices for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with different spices according to your taste preferences. Garlic powder, paprika, or even some Italian herbs can add great flavor variations.

What sides go well with Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)?

These chicken tenders pair nicely with a variety of sides such as steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or even sweet potato fries for a wholesome meal!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) as delightful as I do! It’s such an easy way to enjoy perfectly cooked chicken without all the fuss of breading. Enjoy making these tasty tenders and don’t hesitate to share your experience! Happy cooking!