Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Crispy and Flavorful Meal

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup buttermilk (or substitute with 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon lemon juice)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.5 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for a kick)
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs (for extra crunch)
• as needed cooking spray

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine the chicken strips with the buttermilk. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for more flavor).
2. Set up three bowls; one with flour mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne. The second bowl for the buttermilk, and the third with panko bread crumbs.
3. Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. First, dip each strip into the flour mixture, then into the buttermilk again, and finally coat with panko bread crumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
5. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the chicken tenders in a single layer—do not overcrowd (you may need to cook in batches). Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray for a crisp finish.
6. Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
7. Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and let them rest for a minute before serving.