We all have those hectic nights. You get home late and everyone is hungry. You stare at the fridge hoping for a miracle. You need something fast. You need something tasty. You definitely do not want a sink full of dirty dishes. That is where these air fryer Chicken Tenders come to the rescue.
This recipe changes the game for busy home cooks. It takes a classic family favorite and gives it a fresh twist. We skip the heavy breading and deep frying. Instead, we use a simple marinade and the magic of the air fryer. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken that is ready in a flash.
Jump To:
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You are going to fall in love with how simple this is. Most Recipes With Chicken Tenders require messy dredging stations. You usually have bowls of flour, egg, and breadcrumbs everywhere. This recipe skips all of that chaos. You mix everything in one bowl. It is quick and keeps your kitchen clean.
The flavor profile is another big win. We combine honey with lemon juice and savory spices. It creates a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. It is a flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. You do not need to cook separate meals for picky eaters. Everyone will enjoy these golden strips.
Speed is a huge factor here. You can have dinner on the table in under twenty minutes. That includes the time it takes to prep the meat. When you are wondering What To Make With Chicken Tenders on a busy Tuesday, this is the answer. It is faster than ordering takeout and much healthier too.
Budget is always on our minds these days. Chicken Tenders are often more affordable than chicken breasts. They are also naturally tender, as the name suggests. You get a high quality protein without breaking the bank. Plus, you likely have the spices in your pantry right now.
This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can eat the tenders on their own with dipping sauce. You can chop them up for salads. You can wrap them in tortillas. It is one of the most flexible Chicken Strip Recipes you will find. You can even meal prep a double batch for the week ahead.
Finally, we have to talk about the texture. The air fryer does an amazing job locking in juices. The outside gets a nice little sear while the inside stays moist. It is hard to achieve that texture in a regular oven without drying things out. Once you try this method, you might never go back.
Ingredients
You do not need a long shopping list for this meal. The beauty lies in the simplicity of fresh ingredients and good spices. Here is what you will need to get started.
- 1 lb Chicken tenderloins
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Honey
- 1/2 tbsp Lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Sea salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
Let’s talk about the chicken first. You want to look for fresh Chicken Tenders at the store. If you can only find frozen ones, make sure to thaw them completely first. You can also slice chicken breasts into strips if that is what you have on hand.
The olive oil is essential for the marinade. It helps conduct the heat in the air fryer. It also ensures the spices stick to the meat. You can swap this for avocado oil if you prefer. Just make sure it is an oil with a decent smoke point.
Honey adds that special touch. It helps caramelize the outside of the chicken. It gives the tenders a lovely golden color as they cook. The sweetness is subtle but it makes a huge difference in the final taste.
Lemon juice is the secret weapon. It brightens up the savory flavors. It also acts as a natural tenderizer for the meat. Fresh squeezed is best, but bottled works in a pinch. It cuts through the richness of the oil perfectly.
Garlic powder and paprika provide the base flavor. They are pantry staples for a reason. The paprika adds a nice warmth and color. The garlic powder gives you that savory kick without the risk of burning fresh garlic in the high heat.
Step-By-Step Instructions
Making these Chicken Tenders is a breeze. The process is straightforward and foolproof. You will have a hot meal ready before you know it. Follow these simple steps for the best results.
Step 1: Preheat The Air Fryer
Start by getting your air fryer ready. Set it to 400 degrees F (204 degrees C). Preheating is an important step. It ensures the basket is hot when the chicken hits it. This helps sear the outside immediately. It mimics the effect of frying without the oil bath.
Step 2: Prepare The Chicken
Take your chicken tenderloins out of the package. You want to pat them dry with paper towels. This removes excess surface moisture. If the chicken is too wet, it will steam instead of roast. Place the dried tenders into a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Mix The Marinade
Grab a small bowl for the flavor mix. Whisk together the olive oil, honey, and lemon juice. Add the garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir it well until the honey dissolves into the oil. It should look like a thick dressing.
Step 4: Coat The Tenders
Pour that beautiful mixture over the chicken in the large bowl. Use tongs or your hands to toss everything together. Make sure every piece is coated evenly. If you have a few extra minutes, let it sit. Marinating for just 15 minutes allows the flavors to penetrate deeper.
Step 5: Arrange In Basket
Place the chicken tenderloins in the air fryer basket. Arrange them in a single layer. Do not stack them on top of each other. You want the hot air to touch every surface. Leave any extra marinade in the bowl; you do not need to pour it in.
Step 6: Cook The Chicken
Slide the basket into the air fryer. Cook for 7 to 8 minutes total. You need to flip the tenders halfway through the cooking time. This ensures even browning on both sides. They are done when the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
How To Store Leftovers
If you are lucky enough to have leftovers, they store well. These Chicken Tenders are great for meal prep. They stay juicy even after reheating if you do it right. Here is how to keep them fresh.
Let the chicken cool down completely first. Placing hot chicken in a container can create condensation. That moisture will make them soggy. Once cool, place them in an airtight container. They will stay good in the refrigerator for up to four days.
You can also freeze these for later. Lay the cooked cooled tenders on a baking sheet. Freeze them until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag. This stops them from sticking together. They will last for up to three months in the freezer.
Reheating is best done in the air fryer. Set it to 350 degrees F. Heat the refrigerated tenders for about 3 to 4 minutes. This brings back the texture. Using a microwave is faster but can make the meat rubbery. Stick to the air fryer for the best taste.
Tips
Getting the perfect Chicken Tenders is easy with a few tricks. The first tip is about spacing. Never overcrowd your air fryer basket. If the pieces are touching too much, they will not brown. Cook in two batches if you need to.
Always check the temperature. Chicken needs to reach 165 degrees F to be safe. However, you can pull them out at 162 degrees F. The residual heat will finish the cooking as they rest. This prevents overcooking and keeps them juicy.
Speaking of resting, do not skip it. Let the meat sit for a minute or two after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the tender. If you cut into it immediately, all that flavor runs out onto the plate.
Feel free to customize the spices. If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer herbs, dried oregano works well. This base recipe is very forgiving. You can adapt it to whatever flavor profile you are craving that night.
Removing the tendon is a pro move. Sometimes tenderloins come with a tough white tendon. You can grip it with a paper towel and pull it out. Or you can snip it with kitchen shears. It makes the eating experience much smoother.
These tenders are great for dipping. Honey mustard is a classic choice. Barbecue sauce adds a nice smoky element. Ranch dressing is always a hit with kids. You can even serve them with tzatziki for a Greek twist.
Conclusion
There you have it. A simple, delicious way to make Chicken Tenders at home. No deep fryer needed. No mess to clean up. Just great food that is ready in minutes. It is the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something homemade.
This recipe proves that fast food can be healthy food. You control the ingredients. You control the salt. You get to enjoy a meal that feels indulgent but is actually quite light. It is one of those Recipes With Chicken Tenders you will return to again and again.
So next time you are stuck on What To Make With Chicken Tenders, remember this method. Grab your air fryer and some honey. You will be amazed at how good simple cooking can taste. Give it a try tonight and watch your family ask for seconds.
FAQ
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead?
Yes, absolutely. You can buy boneless skinless chicken breasts and slice them. Cut them into strips about one inch thick. They will work just as well as tenderloins. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as thickness may vary.
What If I Do Not Have An Air Fryer?
You can bake these in a standard oven. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. Place the tenders on a parchment lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. They might not be quite as crisp, but they will still be delicious.
Is This Recipe Gluten Free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten free. There is no flour or breading involved. Just make sure your spices are certified gluten free if you have a severe allergy. It is a great option for those avoiding wheat.
Can I Double The Recipe?
You can easily double the ingredients. However, do not try to cook it all at once. You must cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer. Cook the first pound, keep it warm, and then cook the second pound.
What Else Can I Make With Chicken Tenders?
There are many Chicken Strip Recipes out there. You can chop these cooked tenders for tacos. You can slice them over a Caesar salad. They are also great inside a wrap with lettuce and tomato. The possibilities are endless.
Quick & Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These juicy air fryer chicken tenders are the perfect no-fuss weeknight meal. A simple honey-lemon marinade makes them flavorful and they’re ready in under 20 minutes!
Requirements
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C).
- Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels and place them into a large mixing bowl.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, honey, lemon juice, garlic powder, paprika, sea salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Pour the mixture over the chicken and toss until every piece is evenly coated. Let it marinate for 15 minutes if you have time.
- Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd.
- Cook for 7-8 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a minute or two before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Don’t overcrowd your air fryer basket. If the pieces are touching too much, they will steam instead of brown. Cook in two batches if you need to.
For extra juicy chicken, pull them out at 162°F. The residual heat will finish the cooking as they rest, preventing them from overcooking.
Feel free to customize the spices. If you like heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer herbs, dried oregano also works well in the marinade.
Nutrition
Calories
Sugar
Fat
Carbs
