21 Chicken Tenderloin Recipes in the Air Fryer

If you need a quick dinner tonight, we’re sharing 21 Chicken Tenderloin Recipes in the Air Fryer the whole family will love.

When it comes to a tasty, easy meal, chicken strips are an absolute game-changer. Pair these succulent chicken pieces with the efficiency of an air fryer, and you’ve got a match made in heaven.

Not only do these air fryer recipes cook these tenderloins to crispy perfection, but it also retains their juiciness without excessive oil. You’ve got to love that!

The best part of each easy recipe we are sharing is, they use simple ingredients you may already have in your pantry. Air fryer chicken tenderloins are great options for busy weeknights when you need to please even your picky eaters.

Tips for Making Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Whether this is your first time making chicken strips or you’re a pro, it’s easy to get crispy chicken tenders in your air fryer by following a few simple tips:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer:

Before placing your chicken tenders in the air fryer, make sure to preheat it. This helps to create a consistent cooking environment and ensures your tenders cook evenly.

2. Properly Coat the Chicken:

Coating the naked chicken tenders is crucial for that crispy exterior. Use a seasoned flour mixture, panko breadcrumbs, or a batter to coat the tenders thoroughly. For an extra crunchy texture, double-dip them in the coating. Check the recipe card for tips specific to that recipe.

3. Don’t Crowd the Basket:

Ensure there’s enough space between the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket. Overcrowding can prevent proper air circulation, leading to uneven cooking. The best way to ensure crispy chicken fingers is to cook your chicken in a single layer Cook in batches if needed.

4. Use Cooking Spray or Brush with Oil:

To enhance the crispiness of the chicken tenders, lightly spray them with an olive oil spray or use a pastry brush to apply a thin layer of avocado oil before air frying. This helps achieve that golden brown exterior. Use whatever oil floats your boat!

5. Flip or Shake Them:

Midway through the cooking process, flip the tenders or give the basket a shake to ensure they cook evenly on all sides. This helps in achieving uniform crispiness.

6. Check for Doneness:

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165 degrees f. This guarantees they are cooked through while remaining juicy. Each air fryer is different so the cooking time can vary. Using an instant-read thermometer is the best way to ensure doneness.

7. Experiment with Flavors:

Don’t be afraid to play with different seasonings, herbs, or marinades to add variety to your chicken tenders. From spicy Cajun to savory herb blends, there’s a world of flavors to explore! Add your favorite dipping sauce and some french fries and you’ve got a complete meal you’ll love.

8. Serve Immediately:

Juicy Chicken tenders are at their best when served fresh out of the air fryer. They tend to lose their crispiness if left sitting for too long, so aim to serve them promptly.

9. Clean the Air Fryer Basket:

After each use, clean the air fryer basket thoroughly to remove any residue. This prevents smoking and maintains the performance of the air fryer.

We think the air fryer is the best method for cooking chicken tenderloins. If you don’t have tenderloins you can also use boneless chicken breast cut into strips.

Let’s dive into a selection of delectable air fryer chicken recipes that will elevate your air frying game. Which air fryer chicken tenders recipe are you going to try first?

Instant Pot Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

The best air fryer recipe is our Instant Pot air fryer chicken tenders. They are wonderfully crispy and done in a matter of minutes without messy oil.