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Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

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3.9 from 5 reviews

Crispy and flavorful air fryer chicken tenders seasoned with a blend of smoked paprika, garlic, onion, and herbs, perfect for a quick and healthy meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 pound chicken tenders

Seasoning Blend

  • 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
  • 2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ½1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to preheat while you prepare the chicken tenders.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry using paper towels to remove any excess moisture. Place them into a large mixing bowl, then drizzle with olive oil and toss until they are fully coated.
  3. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, dried thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and dried basil. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over the oiled chicken tenders, ensuring each piece is well coated with the spice mixture.
  4. Air Fry the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping the tenders once halfway through the cooking time. The chicken should be cooked through with a golden, crispy exterior when done.

Notes

  • Adjust cayenne pepper quantity to control the spice level.
  • Ensure chicken tenders are spread out and not overlapping in the air fryer for even cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F to confirm doneness.
  • Serve with your favorite dipping sauce such as honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.