Craving perfectly crispy, incredibly tender chicken strips without the deep-frying mess? Look no further! These Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Strips are a game-changer for anyone seeking a healthier, quicker, and utterly delicious alternative to traditional fried chicken. Coated in a meticulously seasoned breadcrumb mixture and cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, they emerge juicy on the inside and irresistibly crunchy on the outside. Whether you’re planning a lively game day feast, a fun family dinner, or simply need a quick weeknight meal, these homemade chicken tenders are guaranteed to be a hit. Plus, we’ve included an easy recipe for an incredibly flavorful special dipping sauce that takes these strips from great to unforgettable!
Forget soggy, bland chicken! Our recipe focuses on maximizing flavor and crunch, making these air fried chicken tenders wonderfully addictive. With simple ingredients and minimal effort, you can achieve restaurant-quality chicken strips right in your own kitchen. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step, from preparing the chicken and perfecting the breading to achieving that ideal air-fried texture, ensuring every bite is a delightful crunch followed by tender, seasoned chicken. Ready to transform your mealtime with these healthy, crispy chicken masterpieces?
If you’re eager to explore more amazing air fryer recipes, be sure to check out our Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries for a fantastic side, or dive into our Air Fryer Chicken Wing Recipe for another crowd-pleasing protein option!
Why These Air Fryer Chicken Strips Will Become Your New Favorite
There are countless reasons why these air fryer chicken tenders are about to become a staple in your kitchen. Here’s a closer look at what makes them so special:
- Unbelievably Crispy Texture: Say goodbye to greasy deep-fried chicken! Our air fryer method delivers an extraordinary crunch and a beautiful golden-brown exterior that rivals traditional frying, all without excessive oil. Each bite offers a satisfying crispness that’s truly addictive.
- Tender & Juicy Inside: While the outside is perfectly crunchy, the chicken tenders remain incredibly moist and tender on the inside. The air fryer circulates hot air evenly, ensuring the chicken cooks through without drying out, locking in all the natural juices.
- Flavor-Packed Breading: The secret to their incredible taste lies in our thoughtfully crafted breadcrumb coating. A dynamic blend of Panko breadcrumbs for ultimate crispness, regular breadcrumbs for texture, and a robust medley of spices like paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese ensures every strip is bursting with savory flavor.
- Quick and Easy Preparation: Life is busy, and complicated recipes are often a no-go. This recipe is designed for simplicity, requiring minimal prep time and cooking in under 30 minutes. It’s an ideal solution for busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal on the table fast.
- Healthier Alternative: Compared to deep-frying, air frying significantly reduces the amount of oil needed, making these chicken strips a much lighter and healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture. Enjoy your favorite comfort food guilt-free!
- Homemade Special Dipping Sauce: What’s a chicken strip without a fantastic dipping sauce? Our tangy and delicious homemade special sauce complements the crispy chicken perfectly. It’s easy to whip up and adds an extra layer of flavor that kids and adults alike will adore.
- Versatile Meal Option: These chicken strips are incredibly versatile. Enjoy them as a standalone snack, a protein-packed lunch, or pair them with a variety of sides for a complete and satisfying dinner. They’re also perfect for party platters and game day munchies!
Essential Ingredients for Your Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Strips
Crafting these delectable chicken strips requires a few key components. Here’s what you’ll need, broken down for clarity and ease of shopping:
- For the Chicken:
- Chicken Tenders: Opt for high-quality chicken tenders. If using larger chicken breasts, you can easily slice them into strip-sized pieces. Ensure any tough silverskin or film is removed for the best texture.
- Egg: A single large egg, whisked, acts as the binder, helping the breading adhere perfectly to the chicken.
- Olive Oil Spray: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy finish in the air fryer without excess oil. A generous spray is key!
- For the Irresistible Breading:
- Panko Breadcrumbs: The star ingredient for maximum crispness. Panko crumbs are lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, yielding a superior crunch.
- Standard Breadcrumbs: Provide a denser coating layer and help create a robust crust.
- Paprika: Adds a beautiful color and a mild, sweet, peppery flavor that enhances the overall savory profile.
- Black Pepper & Salt: Fundamental seasonings to bring out the best in the chicken and the breading. Adjust to your taste preferences.
- Onion Powder & Garlic Powder: These aromatic powders infuse the breading with deep, savory notes, making every bite incredibly flavorful.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: A fantastic addition that contributes a salty, umami depth and helps form a wonderfully golden crust.
Whip Up Our Signature Special Dipping Sauce
No plate of crispy chicken strips is complete without a stellar dipping sauce! Our homemade special sauce is creamy, tangy, and perfectly balanced, making it the ideal companion for your golden tenders. Here’s what you’ll need and how to make it:
Special Sauce Dip Ingredients:
- Light Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base of the sauce. Light mayo helps keep it a bit lighter while still providing richness.
- Ketchup: Adds a classic sweet and tangy tomato flavor that’s universally loved.
- Sweet Relish: Provides a delightful sweetness and a subtle vinegary tang, along with a pleasant textural element from the finely chopped pickles.
- Black Pepper: A dash of freshly ground black pepper adds a hint of mild spice and aromatic depth.
- Onion Powder: Enhances the savory notes and rounds out the flavor profile without adding a strong onion bite.
To prepare the sauce, simply combine all the special sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Whisk them together until completely smooth and well-combined. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – you might want a bit more tang, sweetness, or a pinch of heat. For the best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 15-20 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a more cohesive and delicious dip.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Creating these perfect air fryer chicken strips is straightforward. Follow these detailed steps for guaranteed success:
- Prepare Your Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial for instant crisping and even cooking. While it preheats, you can prepare your chicken.
- Set Up Your Breading Station: Get two shallow bowls ready. In the first bowl, whisk the large egg until it’s well combined. In the second bowl, combine all your breading ingredients: panko crumbs, standard breadcrumbs, paprika, black pepper, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix them thoroughly to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat your chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the egg wash and breading adhere better. If there’s any tough silverskin or film on the tenders, remove it now.
- Dredge the Chicken: Take one chicken tender at a time. First, dip it into the whisked egg, ensuring it’s fully coated and allowing any excess egg to drip off. Then, transfer the egg-coated tender into the breading mixture. Press the breading firmly onto all sides of the chicken, ensuring a thick and even coating. Don’t be shy – a generous coating leads to maximum crispness! Gently shake off any loose breading.
- Arrange in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the bottom of your air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the preheated air fryer. It’s crucial not to overcrowd the basket, as this can lead to steaming rather than crisping. Work in batches if necessary.
- Spray and Cook First Side: Once the tenders are arranged, generously spray the tops of the chicken strips with olive oil spray. This is vital for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color and irresistible crunch. Cook for 5-6 minutes.
- Flip and Cook Second Side: After the first 5-6 minutes, carefully flip each chicken tender using tongs. Spray the newly exposed side generously with olive oil spray. Continue cooking for another 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken strips are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through. An internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) should be reached for safe consumption.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the crispy chicken strips from the air fryer and transfer them to a wire rack set over a baking sheet for a minute or two. This allows air to circulate, preventing the bottoms from getting soggy. Serve immediately with your homemade special dipping sauce and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy!
Expert Tips for the Crispiest Air Fryer Chicken Strips
Achieving perfectly crispy and flavorful chicken strips in your air fryer is simple with these expert tips:
- Always Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like an oven, an air fryer needs to be preheated to its target temperature before adding food. This ensures immediate crisping and even cooking, preventing soggy chicken.
- Trim the Chicken Tenders Properly: Before breading, take a moment to remove any visible silverskin or tough film from the chicken tenders. This fibrous connective tissue can become chewy and tough when cooked, affecting the overall texture.
- Don’t Skimp on the Oil Spray: While air frying uses less oil, a generous spray of olive oil (or other high-smoke-point oil) on both sides of the breaded chicken is crucial. This is what helps the breading crisp up and turn that beautiful golden brown, simulating the effect of deep-frying without the excess fat.
- Avoid Overcrowding the Basket: This is perhaps the most important tip for air frying success. Chicken strips need space for the hot air to circulate freely around them. Overcrowding will steam the chicken instead of crisping it, resulting in a less desirable texture. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring a single layer.
- Flip Halfway Through: To ensure even cooking and browning on all sides, remember to flip the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time. This allows both sides to get direct exposure to the circulating hot air.
- Let Them Rest (Briefly): Once cooked, transfer the chicken strips to a wire rack for a minute or two before serving. This allows excess moisture to evaporate and helps maintain their crispness. Serving them straight from the air fryer onto a flat plate can sometimes trap steam and make them slightly soft.
- Garnish for Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives just before serving adds a touch of freshness, color, and a subtle herbaceous note that elevates the dish.
- Check Internal Temperature: For food safety, ensure your chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer at the thickest part.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to customize the breading! Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick, some dried herbs like oregano or thyme for an Italian twist, or a smoky chipotle powder for depth.
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Strips
What are the best side dishes to serve with Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Strips?
These incredibly versatile crispy chicken tenders are fantastic on their own as a snack or appetizer with the special dip, but they also shine as the star of a full meal. Here are some delicious ideas to pair with them:
- Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier and equally crispy alternative to regular fries, offering a touch of sweetness that complements the savory chicken. Get the recipe here: Crispy Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries.
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, refreshing side with a vinaigrette dressing can balance the richness of the chicken.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, green beans, or asparagus roasted with a little garlic and olive oil make a simple, nutritious side. Consider our Best Grilled Vegetables for inspiration.
- Macaroni and Cheese: A classic comfort food pairing that’s always a hit, especially with kids.
- Coleslaw: The creamy tang of coleslaw offers a lovely contrast to the crispy chicken.
- Everything Bagel Potato Chips: For an extra dose of crunch and unique flavor, these chips are a fun and easy side. Find the recipe: Crispy Everything Bagel Potato Chips.
- Cheesy Broccoli Bites: If you’re looking for another cheesy, veggie-packed side, these bites are a perfect match. Check them out: Cheesy Broccoli Bites.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant, flavorful salad that adds a zesty, creamy, and slightly spicy element to your meal. Here’s the recipe: Mexican Street Corn Salad.
- Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: For a more hearty, comforting meal, creamy mashed potatoes and a drizzle of gravy are hard to beat.
How do I store and reheat leftover air fryer chicken strips to keep them crispy?
To store leftover crispy chicken strips, allow them to cool completely to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container or a large resealable bag. They will keep fresh in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
To reheat the strips and revive their crispness, your air fryer is the best tool! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the cold tenders in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook for 5-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are thoroughly heated and crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it will make them soggy.
Can you freeze these Crispy Chicken Strips for future meals?
Absolutely! This recipe is excellent for meal prepping and freezing for later. You can freeze these chicken strips either cooked or uncooked.
- To Freeze Uncooked Tenders: After breading the chicken tenders, place them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for about 2 hours, or until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a large freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be stored for up to 2-3 months.
- To Cook Uncooked Frozen Tenders: Do not thaw. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until golden brown, crispy, and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the tenders and your air fryer model.
- To Freeze Cooked Tenders: Allow the cooked chicken strips to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, again separating with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.
- To Reheat Cooked Frozen Tenders: Preheat your air fryer to 390°F (195°C). Place the frozen, cooked tenders in a single layer. Cook for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and regain their crispness.
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, absolutely! Chicken breast can be a great substitute. Simply slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform strips, roughly the same size as chicken tenders, to ensure even cooking. Follow the same breading and air frying instructions. The cooking time might vary slightly depending on the thickness of your homemade strips, so always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What kind of air fryer is best for chicken strips?
Most air fryer models, whether basket-style or oven-style, will yield fantastic results. The key is to not overcrowd the basket and to ensure proper air circulation. Larger air fryers will allow you to cook more chicken strips per batch, which is convenient for families or entertaining. Regardless of the model, consistent preheating and appropriate oil spraying are crucial for crispness.
More Irresistible Chicken Recipes to Explore
If you love cooking with chicken, we have a variety of other fantastic recipes that are sure to delight your taste buds. From baked to stuffed, there’s something for everyone:
- Asparagus Stuffed Chicken
- Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- Crispy Homemade Chicken Nuggets
- Baked Parmesan Chicken
- Homemade Lebanese Chicken Shawarma
We sincerely hope you cherish every recipe we share, especially this mouth-watering Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Strips. Give it a try, savor the flavors, and don’t forget to rate it and share your culinary adventure with your friends and family!
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Air Fryer Crispy Chicken Strips
These Air Fryer Chicken Strips come out super crispy, tender and golden. Easy to make, with a delectably seasoned breadcrumb coating.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 12 piece chicken tenders, film removed
- 1 large egg
- Olive oil spray
Breading
- ¾ cup panko crumbs
- ½ cup bread crumbs
- 1 tbsp. paprika
- ½ tsp. black pepper
- ¾ tsp. salt
- ¾ tsp. onion powder
- ¾ tsp. garlic powder
- ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated
Special Sauce Dip
- ⅓ cup light mayo
- ½ cup ketchup
- 3 tbsp. sweet relish
- ¼ tsp. black pepper
- ¼ tsp. onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 400 F (200°C).
- In one shallow bowl, whisk the egg. In another shallow bowl, thoroughly mix all the breading ingredients: panko crumbs, standard breadcrumbs, paprika, black pepper, salt, onion powder, garlic powder, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Coat the tenders one by one with the whisked egg batter, letting excess drip off. Then, transfer to the breading mixture, patting the tenders well to ensure a complete and even coating on all sides. Gently shake off any loose breading.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil. Arrange the breaded tenders in a single layer without overlapping them. Spray the tops generously with olive oil spray. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook the tenders for 5-6 minutes. Carefully flip each tender, spray the other side generously with olive oil, and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
- Remove from the air fryer and let them cool on a wire rack for a minute or two before serving. Serve immediately with your homemade special dipping sauce.
Video
Watch the full recipe video for a visual guide to making these crispy chicken strips!
Notes
- Be sure to use a preheated air fryer for best results.
- Remove any tough silverskin or film from the tenders before breading.
- Spray the tenders generously with olive oil on both sides to achieve maximum crispness and golden-brown color.
- Make sure the tenders don’t overlap in the air fryer basket, cooking in batches if necessary, so they cook evenly and become crispy.
- Allow the cooked tenders to cool slightly on a wire rack before serving to maintain their crispness.
- Sprinkle with some fresh parsley for garnish and added freshness.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 12g |
Protein: 13g |
Fat: 4g |
Saturated Fat: 1g |
Trans Fat: 1g |
Cholesterol: 50mg |
Sodium: 446mg |
Potassium: 290mg |
Fiber: 1g |
Sugar: 4g |
Vitamin A: 915IU |
Vitamin C: 1mg |
Calcium: 53mg |
Iron: 1mg
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