Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Fingers

Enjoy the crispy and flavorful delight of Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Fingers! This quick and easy recipe features tender chicken strips coated in a delicious blend of Asian-inspired seasonings, perfect for a family-friendly meal or a tasty snack. Ready in under 30 minutes, these chicken fingers are healthier than traditional frying, making them a guilt-free indulgence that everyone will love!”

If you love easy Asian-Style Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, this recipe will amaze you!

Serve with my homemade Sweet and Sour Sauce, for the perfect combination. If you love Chinese Food, check out my recipe for Air Fryer Chinese Buffet Crab Casserole Recipe, Air Fryer Chinese Spare Ribs, or Instant Pot Chinese Imperial Palace Egg Drop Soup.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives the chicken fingers a perfect crispy coating without the need for deep frying.
• Quick and Easy: With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have these delicious chicken fingers ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile Dipping Sauces: Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, such as sweet and sour or soy sauce, for a customizable experience.
• Kid-Friendly: This dish is a hit with kids and adults alike, making it a great option for family dinners or gatherings.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for quick snacks or lunches throughout the week!

Ingredients Needed

• Chicken Tenders: You can either purchase them already cut or make them yourself by cutting the chicken breast into long strips.
• Eggs: Use large room temperature eggs.
• Sesame Oil: Gives a great aroma and taste to the dish. It’s commonly used in Asian cuisine.
• Cornstarch: Helps the chicken become crispy in the air fryer as it absorbs moisture.
• Seasonings/Spices: Salt and Black Pepper
• Five-Spice: A combination of ground cinnamon, fennel seeds, star anise, Sichuan peppercorns, and cloves.

How To Make Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Fingers

Step One: Spray your air fryer basket with olive oil. Start by preparing the stations. In one bowl, place the eggs, and sesame oil, and mix well. In another bowl, place the cornstarch, salt, black pepper, and cornstarch, and mix well.

Step Two: Dip your chicken tender into the cornstarch mixture, shake off any excess, and then place the chicken into the egg mixture.

Step Three: As you coat the chicken, place it into the air fryer basket. Spray your chicken generously with olive oil, as this will help them crisp up.

Step Four: Set the air fryer temperature to 370 degrees F set cook time for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway. After you flip the chicken, spray again generously with olive oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Air Fryer Asian-Style Chicken Tenders, here are some of my favorites:

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of sauces such as sweet and sour sauce, honey mustard, or a spicy Szechuan sauce for added flavor.
• Side of Rice: Pair the chicken fingers with steamed jasmine or fried rice for a complete meal.
• Vegetable Medley: Accompany with a stir-fried vegetable medley, including bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas, to add freshness and color.
• Salad: Serve on a bed of mixed greens with a sesame dressing for a lighter option.
• Wraps: Use the chicken fingers as a filling in lettuce wraps with shredded carrots and cucumbers for a refreshing twist.
• Appetizer Platter: Include them on a platter with other appetizers like spring rolls, dumplings, and wontons for a fun party spread.
• Garnishes: Top with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra pop of flavor and presentation.

Storing and Freezing

Storing: Allow the chicken fingers to cool completely to room temperature before storing them. Once cooled, place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness. You can store the chicken fingers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: To properly freeze chicken fingers, first, allow them to cool completely. Next, arrange the chicken fingers in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until solid to prevent them from sticking together. Once frozen, transfer the chicken fingers to a freezer-safe bag or container, removing as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. Be sure to label and date the bag or container to keep track of their storage time. Chicken fingers can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, checking for doneness.

Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Fingers Recipe Tips

• Flip Halfway Through: For even crispiness, flip the chicken fingers halfway through the cooking process. This allows both sides to become golden and crispy.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the size and thickness of the chicken fingers. Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
• Serve with Dipping Sauces: Enhance the flavor by serving the chicken fingers with a variety of dipping sauces, such as sweet and sour sauce, soy sauce, or a homemade spicy mayo.

Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Fingers Recipe Faqs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders? Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips instead of chicken tenders.

How can I make these chicken fingers gluten-free? To make gluten-free Chinese chicken fingers, use gluten-free soy sauce and substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.

Why are my chicken fingers not crispy? If the chicken fingers are not crispy, it may be due to overcrowding in the air fryer basket, insufficient oil on the breading, or not preheating the air fryer.

Dipping Sauces To Serve

• COPYCAT CHEESECAKE FACTORY MARINARA SAUCE
• COPYCAT KFC HONEY MUSTARD SAUCE
• MCDONALD’S HOT MUSTARD
• PEANUT DIPPING SAUCE
• EASY SWEET CHILI SAUCE
• CREAMY ROASTED RED PEPPER SAUCE

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