Looking for a quick weeknight dinner solution? Try this easy air fryer chicken tenders recipe made with homemade goodness for a healthy family favorite, save for later

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe for Healthy Family Dinners

Introduction

Are you looking for a delicious, easy, and healthy meal option that your whole family will love? Look no further than these crispy air fryer chicken tenders! Made with everyday ingredients and requiring minimal effort, this recipe is perfect for busy families who want to enjoy a tasty and nutritious dinner together. The best part? It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with your favorite seasonings and dips. Whether you’re a parent looking for a quick weeknight meal or a health enthusiast seeking a guilt-free indulgence, these crispy air fryer chicken tenders are sure to become a staple in your household.

Why This Works

Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes the perfect balance between flavor and nutrition, using common ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
Ease of preparation: With a simple and straightforward preparation process, you can have these crispy air fryer chicken tenders ready in no time, making it an ideal option for busy families.
Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite the ease of preparation, these chicken tenders turn out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends.

Key Ingredients

The key ingredients in this recipe include olive oil, chicken breasts, bell peppers, onions, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can also customize the recipe to your taste by adding your favorite seasonings or herbs. For example, you can use Italian seasoning for an Italian-inspired flavor or cumin and chili powder for a spicy kick. Additionally, you can substitute chicken breasts with chicken tenders or chicken strips if you prefer. The bell peppers and onions add a sweet and crunchy texture to the dish, while the garlic powder and paprika provide a smoky and savory flavor.

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While the air fryer is heating up, prepare your ingredients by slicing the bell peppers and onions into thin strips. Cut the chicken breasts into strips or tenders, depending on your preference.
Step 2: In a large bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken strips to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Let the chicken marinate for at least 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
Step 3: Once the air fryer is hot, add the chicken strips to the basket in a single layer, leaving some space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through the cooking time. After 10-12 minutes, add the bell peppers and onions to the basket and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Remove the chicken and vegetables from the air fryer and serve hot. You can enjoy these crispy air fryer chicken tenders on their own or with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard or ranch dressing. Garnish with fresh herbs or chives for added flavor and color.

Handy Tips

Make sure to pat the chicken dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture and help the chicken cook more evenly.
Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can prevent the chicken and vegetables from cooking evenly. Cook in batches if necessary.
Experiment with different seasonings and herbs to find your favorite flavor combination. Some other options include lemon pepper, cajun seasoning, or smoked paprika.

Heat Control

The ideal temperature for cooking these crispy air fryer chicken tenders is 400°F (200°C). Cook the chicken for 10-12 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The vegetables should be tender and lightly browned after an additional 5-7 minutes of cooking. Make sure to shake the basket halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and prevent the chicken and vegetables from sticking to the basket.

Crunch Factor

To achieve the perfect crunch on these air fryer chicken tenders, make sure to cook them at the right temperature and for the right amount of time. You can also try adding a little bit of cornstarch or panko breadcrumbs to the marinade to help the chicken cook up crispy on the outside. Additionally, don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket, as this can prevent the chicken from cooking evenly and achieving the desired crunch.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to find your favorite flavor combination.
For an extra crispy coating, try dipping the chicken strips in beaten eggs and then coating in panko breadcrumbs before cooking.

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply place the chicken tenders in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through.
You can also freeze the cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months. Simply place the frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.

Gift Packaging Ideas

These crispy air fryer chicken tenders are a great gift idea for friends and family who love food. Consider packaging them in a cute container or bag with a side of your favorite dipping sauce. You could also include a few fresh vegetables, such as carrots or celery, for a healthy and tasty snack. Add a personalized note or gift tag to make it a special and thoughtful gift.

Flavor Variations

🌟 Try adding different spices, such as cumin or smoked paprika, to the marinade for a unique flavor.
🌟 Add some heat to the dish by incorporating diced jalapenos or red pepper flakes into the marinade.
🌟 Experiment with different types of protein, such as chicken thighs or tenders, for a varied texture and flavor.

Troubleshooting

Texture problems: If the chicken tenders are not crispy on the outside, try increasing the cooking temperature or adding a little bit of cornstarch to the marinade.
Ingredient replacements: If you don’t have chicken breasts, you can substitute with chicken thighs or tenders. You can also use different types of vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, for added flavor and nutrition.
Over/undercooking signs: Make sure to check the chicken tenders frequently while they’re cooking to avoid overcooking. If the chicken is not cooked through, continue cooking in 2-3 minute increments until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

FAQs

Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months. Simply place the frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until cooked through.
Is it gluten-free? Yes, this recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple the recipe to feed a larger crowd. Simply adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the chicken tenders are cooked through.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these crispy air fryer chicken tenders are a delicious and healthy meal option that’s perfect for busy families. With a simple and straightforward preparation process, you can have a tasty and nutritious dinner on the table in no time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and herbs to find your favorite flavor combination, and consider sharing this recipe with friends and family who love food. Happy cooking!

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Healthy Dinners