Description
Crispy, juicy chicken tenders marinated in buttermilk and golden-brown panko crust, cooked effortlessly in an air fryer. A healthier take on classic Southern fried chicken, perfect for easy weeknight meals.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
Place chicken in a bowl and pour buttermilk to cover; marinate for 30 minutes.
In separate bowl, mix flour, salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, baking powder, and cayenne.
Drain chicken and pat dry; dredge each tenders in flour mixture, shake off excess, then press into panko.
Place tenders in air fryer basket in a single layer; spray lightly with oil.
Air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.
Notes
For extra crispiness, freeze breaded tenders for 10 minutes before air frying.
Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy aioli.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 tenders per serving
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 65mg