Air Fryer Copycat Bojangles Chicken Tenders

If you love a great recipe for fried chicken tenders, you will love this Air Fryer Copycat Bojangles Chicken Tenders Recipe! Crispy breading and tender chicken make for a fantastic lunch or dinner!

Bring the bold, spicy flavor of the South right to your kitchen with these Air Fryer Copycat Bojangles Chicken Tenders.

By using the air fryer, you get that iconic, craggy “Home-Style” breading and juicy interior without the mess or calories of deep frying.

Each tender is marinated in a zesty buttermilk bath and dredged in a signature blend of Cajun spices, ensuring every bite delivers that famous Bojangles kick. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or the ultimate game-day snack, this recipe offers a healthier way to enjoy your favorite fast-food fix in under 20 minutes.

If you love everything Bojangles, try my recipe for Bojangles Fried Chicken Recipe, Easy Bojangles Dirty Rice Recipe, Bojangles Bo Sauce, Easy Bojangles Honey Mustard Recipe, or Bojangles French Fry Seasoning Recipe.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Authentic “Bo” Flavor: By using a specific blend of Cajun spices and a buttermilk marinade, you get that unmistakable spicy, savory kick that Bojangles is famous for, no drive-thru required!
• Healthier & Less Mess: Using the air fryer slashes the fat and calories compared to traditional deep frying, and you won’t have to deal with a stovetop covered in oil splatters.
• Unbeatable Crunch: The air fryer circulates high-heat air to create a “craggy,” extra-crispy exterior that rivals any professional pressure-fryer, keeping the chicken juicy on the inside.
• Quick & Convenient: These tenders cook in just 10–12 minutes, making this a perfect “emergency” weeknight dinner for busy families or a lightning-fast game-day snack.
• Budget-Friendly: You can make a whole batch of tenders for the price of one combo meal at the restaurant, using simple pantry staples you likely already have in your kitchen.

Bojangles Chicken Tenders Ingredients

• Chicken Tenders: The star of this dish, chicken tenders are lean, juicy, and perfect for a quick cook in the air fryer.
• Buttermilk: A classic marinade that tenderizes the chicken while adding a subtle tangy flavor.
• Flour: Provides a base for our breading, ensuring a crispy exterior once air-fried.
• Seasoning Mix: A blend of spices that replicates the signature Bojangles flavor. Think paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a hint of cayenne for that spicy kick.
• Panko: Use regular or panko breadcrumbs.
• Eggs: Help bind the breading to the chicken for a uniform, golden crust.
• Baking Powder: A little secret to puff up the breading, making it even crispier.
• Kosher Salt: Enhances all the other flavors and is essential in achieving that restaurant-quality taste.
• Black Pepper: Adds a slight heat and a depth of flavor to our breading.

How To Make Copycat Bojangles Chicken Tenders

Step One: Begin by marinating the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least an hour, but overnight is best for maximum flavor infusion.

Step Two: In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly.

Step Three: Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk, allowing the excess to drip off. First, lightly dredge each tender in plain flour (this helps the wet batter adhere). Then, dip it back into the buttermilk and coat it generously with the panko mixture. Ensure each tender is well-coated and shake off any excess.

Step Four: Set your air fryer temperature to 375°F (190°C), for 3-5 minutes. Lay the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in one layer, ensuring they do not touch.

Step Five: Set cook time for 10-12 minutes, turning them midway, until they take on a golden brown hue and are cooked thoroughly. Always check the internal temperature at the thickest part of a chicken tender; it should register 165°F (74°C).

Step Six: Transfer the tenders to a plate with paper towels to drain any residual oil. Serve immediately with your preferred dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Copycat Bojangles Chicken Tenders Recipe Tips

• Marination Magic: Marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for as long as possible, preferably overnight. The buttermilk’s acidity imparts flavor and helps tenderize the chicken, ensuring a juicier result.
• Panko Perfection: If using panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch, remember they brown faster than regular breadcrumbs. Keep a close eye to avoid over-browning or burning.
• Single Layer: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook the chicken tenders in a single layer without them touching to ensure even cooking and to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.
• Preheat the Fryer: Just like an oven, always preheat your air fryer for a few minutes before cooking. This ensures the chicken tenders start cooking immediately and evenly.
• Temperature Check: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure your chicken tenders are fully cooked. The internal temperature should be at least 165°F (74°C).
• Shake or Flip: Halfway through the cooking process, shake the basket or use tongs to flip each tender. This ensures an even crispness on all sides.
• Spritz of Oil: If you want an even crispier crust, lightly spritz the breaded chicken tenders with cooking oil before placing them in the air fryer.
• Experiment with Seasoning: While the suggested seasoning provides a close flavor to Bojangles, feel free to tweak the spices. Experimenting might get you even closer to the taste you love!
• Rest Before Eating: After air frying, the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a moist tender when you bite into it.
• Sauce It Up: While these tenders are delicious, they are even better when dipped in your favorite sauce. Whether it’s Bojangles’ inspired sauce, a classic BBQ, or something spicy, the proper sauce can elevate the experience!

Air Fryer Copycat Bojangles Chicken Tenders Recipe Faqs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders? Yes, you can. Just cut the chicken breast into thinner strips to mimic the size and thickness of tenders. Adjust the cooking time if needed.

Do I have to marinate the chicken in buttermilk? While marinating in buttermilk adds flavor and tenderness, if you’re in a rush, you can skip this step. However, for the best flavor, it’s recommended.

Why use panko breadcrumbs? Panko breadcrumbs are lighter, crispier, and airier than traditional breadcrumbs, which can give the chicken tenders a crunchier texture.

What if I don’t have an air fryer? You can replicate this recipe in an oven. Place the breaded chicken tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F until cooked through, flipping once.

Are these chicken tenders spicy? The spice level can be adjusted based on your preference. Reduce the amount of cayenne pepper or omit it altogether if you prefer a milder taste.

How do I prevent the breading from falling off? Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly. Also, avoid overcrowding the air fryer, which can cause the tenders to touch and stick together.

Can I freeze the breaded chicken tenders and cook them later? Yes, after breading, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag and store. When ready to cook, you can air fry them straight from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

What other dips pair well with these chicken tenders? Honey mustard, ranch dressing, blue cheese, and spicy mayo are all excellent choices. Experiment to find your favorite combination!

Can I double the recipe? Absolutely! However, remember to cook the chicken tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Are these chicken tenders gluten-free? This recipe, as written, is not gluten-free due to the use of regular breadcrumbs. If you need a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

More Copycat Bojangles Recipes You’ll Love

Bojangles Fried Chicken Recipe {Copycat}

Easy Bojangles Dirty Rice Recipe (The Ultimate Copycat!)

Bojangles Bo Sauce

Bojangles French Fry Seasoning Recipe

Easy Bojangles Honey Mustard Recipe

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