Description
Crispy golden chicken tenders bring restaurant-style magic straight to home kitchens through simple air fryer wizardry. Smart cooks can elevate weeknight dinners with this quick, foolproof method that delivers irresistibly crunchy protein perfect for dipping and sharing.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Proteins:
- 8 chicken tenders (approximately 1 lb or 454 grams)
Breading and Seasoning:
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (85 grams)
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Binding Ingredient:
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt (110 grams)
Additional:
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Thoroughly blot chicken tenders with paper towels to eliminate surface moisture, ensuring optimal crispiness.
- Create a zesty marinade by whisking Greek yogurt with aromatic seasonings including salt, black pepper, smoky paprika, and earthy oregano until perfectly blended.
- Lovingly dunk each tender into the yogurt mixture, guaranteeing complete coverage, then generously roll in crispy panko breadcrumbs for a crunchy exterior.
- Liberally mist the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and potential burning.
- Carefully arrange chicken tenders in a single layer within the basket, maintaining spacing between pieces to allow hot air circulation and even cooking.
- Program air fryer to 400°F and cook for 10-12 minutes, performing a midway flip to promote uniform golden-brown coloration and ensure thorough internal cooking.
- Verify doneness by checking that chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and exhibits a crisp, amber-colored coating.
- Transfer immediately to serving plate and accompany with preferred dipping sauces or fresh side dishes for a complete meal experience.
Notes
- Pat chicken tenders thoroughly with paper towels to ensure a crispy exterior and prevent soggy breading.
- Greek yogurt acts as a healthier, tangier alternative to buttermilk, helping breadcrumbs adhere while adding subtle flavor and tenderness.
- Space chicken tenders evenly in the air fryer basket to promote even cooking and achieve maximum crispiness on all sides.
- Swap panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes for those with wheat sensitivities.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 75mg