Air Fried Chicken Tenderloin
Crispy and juicy Air Fried Chicken Tenderloins that are quick to prepare, healthy with minimal oil, and perfect for any meal or snack. This recipe delivers a golden crunchy coating and tender chicken inside, using the magic of the air fryer for guilt-free indulgence.
- Author: Emilly
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh boneless chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Cooking spray or oil mist (as needed)
- Prepare Your Chicken: Rinse the chicken tenderloins under cold water and pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. This step is essential to help the coating stick better and ensure even cooking.
- Set Up Breading Stations: In one shallow bowl, combine the flour with salt and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and paprika.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each tenderloin first into the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip into the whisked eggs, followed by a generous coating of the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum crunch.
- Preheat and Arrange: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch to allow proper airflow and even crisping.
- Air Fry to Perfection: Cook the chicken for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to achieve a golden, crispy crust on both sides. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Let Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.
Notes
- Pat dry your chicken tenderloins thoroughly to help the breading adhere better.
- Preheat the air fryer for a crispier exterior right from the start.
- Don’t overcrowd the basket; spacing allows hot air to circulate for even cooking.
- Flip the chicken halfway through cooking for an even golden crust.
- Customize the seasonings with herbs or spices to suit your taste preferences.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 oz (about 2-3 tenderloins)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 100 mg
Keywords: air fried chicken tenderloin, crispy chicken, healthy chicken recipe, quick chicken recipe, gluten-free chicken, air fryer chicken, easy chicken tenders