The Crispy Comfort of Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ever had chicken tenders that come out so golden and crispy, you just can’t resist diving in? 🍗 With this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe, you’ll discover how easy it is to whip up a low-carb and gluten-free meal that satisfies cravings and keeps your kitchen mess-free. Trust me, these tenders are a game-changer, and your taste buds are in for a treat!
Why Make This Recipe
You might wonder, why should I try this recipe? Well, here are a few reasons to fall in love with it:
- Quick and Easy Cleanup: Say goodbye to piles of dirty dishes. With just a few bowls and the air fryer, you can have a fabulous meal without the extra hassle.
- Family Approved: Kids and adults alike love chicken tenders. You can serve these with confidence at family dinner or a kids’ playdate.
- Healthy but Delicious: Enjoy the crunch of your favorite comfort food without the guilt. Who needs greasy takeout when you can make this homemade goodness?
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup blanched almond flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 12 chicken tenders – about 1.5 lbs
- Olive oil cooking spray
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions
Let’s get to cooking these crispy delights! Just follow these easy steps:
- Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and season them with salt and pepper.
- In another bowl, mix the almond flour with garlic powder, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg, then coat it in the almond flour mixture. Repeat until all chicken is coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F and spray the basket with olive oil.
- Lay the chicken tenders in the basket and spray them lightly with olive oil. Cook for 7 minutes.
- Flip the tenders, spray again, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until crispy.
- In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add hot sauce, honey, tomato paste, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk together and cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat.
- Once all the chicken is cooked, drizzle it with the sauce and serve warm.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free (Overview)
Making these tender bites is so simple! First, whip up an egg wash and the almond flour coating. Then, dip each chicken piece to coat it fully. While the air fryer preheats, it’s the perfect time to get the sauce simmering on the stove. Don’t forget to flip those chicken tenders halfway through cooking for even crispiness! And just like that, you have a crispy, flavorful dish ready to impress.
Pro Tip:
Don’t skip the olive oil spray! It’s the secret to that golden, crunchy exterior you crave.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free
Think of these tenders as the perfect base for deliciousness! Serve them up with a simple green salad for a fresh crunch, or pair them with crispy veggies. If you’re feeling indulgent, a side of ranch or classic BBQ sauce can elevate the flavor and wow your guests. The sight of that golden brown hue, the aroma of spices wafting through the air, and the satisfying crunch as you take a bite? Absolutely irresistible!
How to Store Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free
Got leftovers? No problem! These tenders can last up to 3 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat again, pop them in the air fryer for a quick warm-up (about 5-7 minutes will do the trick).
Tips to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free
Here are a few insider tricks to make these tenders even better:
- Timing Matters: Get that air fryer preheated to ensure a nice crispiness right from the start.
- Ingredient Swaps: No almond flour? Try coconut flour instead, but remember it may alter the flavor slightly.
- Texture Tips: For super crispy chicken, let the coated tenders rest for about 10 minutes before cooking. It makes a world of difference!
Variation
Want to switch things up? Try adding different spices like Italian seasoning or Cajun spices for added flavor. For a vegan version, swap the chicken tenders for tofu or cauliflower and adjust cooking times accordingly.
FAQs
1. Can I use different kinds of flour?
Absolutely! You can use coconut flour or even gluten-free breadcrumbs if you prefer a different texture.
2. How can I make these ahead of time?
Prep the chicken tenders and store them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to eat!
3. Can I freeze the cooked chicken tenders?
Yes! Freeze them after cooking. When you’re ready, just pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to get them crispy again.
📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Chicken Coating
- 2 large eggs Crack into a shallow bowl for the egg wash.
- 1 cup blanched almond flour Use as the main coating.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt For seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper For seasoning.
Chicken and Sauce
- 12 pieces chicken tenders About 1.5 lbs.
- Olive oil spray cooking spray For greasing the air fryer basket.
- 2 tablespoons butter For the sauce.
- 1/4 cup hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt For the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper For the sauce.
Instructions
Preparation
- Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and season with salt and pepper.
- In another bowl, mix almond flour with garlic powder, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg, then coat it in the almond flour mixture. Repeat until all chicken is coated.
- Preheat the air fryer to 390°F and spray the basket with olive oil.
Cooking
- Lay the chicken tenders in the basket and spray them lightly with olive oil. Cook for 7 minutes.
- Flip the tenders, spray again, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until crispy.
Sauce
- In a pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add hot sauce, honey, tomato paste, and season with salt and pepper. Whisk together and cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat.
- Once all the chicken is cooked, drizzle it with the sauce and serve warm.
Notes
Printable Recipe Card
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