Oh boy, am I excited to share this recipe with you! There’s something so satisfying about biting into the perfect chicken tender – juicy, flavorful, and oh-so-tender. These Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading have quickly become one of my go-to meals. Why? Because they’re not only delicious but incredibly easy to whip up. I can practically make them with my eyes closed!
I remember the first time I made these. It was a busy weekday evening, and I was in dire need of a quick meal that wouldn’t skimp on flavor. I found some chicken tenderloins in the fridge and thought, “Why not give the air fryer a whirl?” The result was pure magic! Golden-brown tenders that were crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside – all without a single crumb of breading. Let’s dive into what makes these chicken tenders so fabulous!
What’s in Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?
Chicken Tenderloins: These are the star of the show! Tenderloins are particularly juicy and cook quickly. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could also use chicken breasts cut into strips.
Olive Oil: A little bit of oil goes a long way! It helps the seasonings stick to the chicken and adds a delicious richness. I love using extra virgin olive oil for its flavor.
Garlic Powder: Who doesn’t love garlic? It adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Onion Powder: This ingredient balances out the garlic with its sweet, savory notes.
Smoked Paprika: This is where the magic happens – it gives a lovely smoky flavor and gorgeous color.
Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs adds a nice herbal touch. You can’t go wrong with a little Italian flair!
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in our chicken.
Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley not only makes it look pretty but adds some freshness at the end.
Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of lemon over the tenders takes the flavor to another level – trust me, it’s a game-changer!
Optional Dip: Whether you fancy ranch dressing or a spicy mayo, having a dip on the side is always a great idea!
Is Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Good for You?
Absolutely! These chicken tenders are a fantastic source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Plus, you’re avoiding the heavy breading often found in traditional chicken tenders, so you can feel good about what you’re eating. Here’s a closer look at some of the main ingredients:
Chicken Tenderloins: Lean and packed with protein, they’re a great choice if you’re watching your calorie intake.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat, olive oil is rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation.
Spices (like garlic powder and smoked paprika): These not only heighten flavor without adding calories but also pack in some health benefits as well, like anti-inflammatory properties.
So, while these tenders are deliciously crispy, they won’t weigh you down – yay for guilt-free indulgence!
Ingredients List
– 1.5 lbs chicken tenderloins
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
– Optional dip (e.g., ranch or a spicy mayo)
This recipe serves about 4 people – perfect for dinner with the fam or a small gathering!
How to Make Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?
1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. Let that heat pump up!
2. In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Make sure it’s well combined – this is where the flavor comes from!
3. Toss the chicken tenderloins into the bowl, ensuring every piece is coated in the seasoning mixture. Go in with your hands if you want; you want to get it all nice and juicy!
4. Lay the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Remember, we don’t want to overcrowd them – they need personal space!
5. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Keep an eye on them; when they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), they’re ready to party!
6. Take the chicken tenders out and let them rest for a couple of minutes – patience is a virtue!
7. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.
8. The best part? Dive in with your choice of dip!
Sizzling Tips for Success!
– If you love spice, feel free to add some cayenne pepper to the seasoning mixture!
– These tenders are super versatile. Try serving them in tacos or salads, or use them to add protein to your favorite grain bowl.
– If you’re planning to make these for a meal prep, they store beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat in the air fryer to maintain that crunch!
Trust me, once you try these Juicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen. I absolutely adore how simple and satisfying they are! I can’t wait for you to give this recipe a try. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, I promise you, these tenders will leave you and your loved ones craving more! Don’t forget to share your delicious creations with me! Enjoy!
