Air Fryer Cornbread Crusted Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Cornbread Crusted Chicken Tenders — If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy twist on your typical chicken tenders, look no further than this air fryer cornbread-crusted chicken!

This recipe is light yet full of flavor thanks to the savory combination of crunchy cornbread crumbs and juicy, tender chicken.

These chicken tenders are packed with protein and are quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights or when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen! Plus, depending on how quickly things cook in your air fryer, dinner will be ready before you know it! So read on to learn how to create these drool-worthy golden nuggets that’ll keep everyone at the table happy!

Jiffy Mix Coasted Chicken Tenders

Air fryer cornbread crusted chicken tenders are a delectable and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders.

Tender chicken and a crispy cornbread coating create a mouthwatering texture and flavor. You can achieve a golden and crunchy crust without excessive oil using an air fryer. These chicken tenders are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Get ready to enjoy the irresistible combination of juicy chicken and the comforting taste of cornbread, all conveniently cooked in the air fryer.

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Cornbread Crusted Chicken Tenders

Air fryer chicken tenders are one of the most delicious and easy-to-make dinners you can make. They’re crispy, juicy, and flavorful – perfect for dinnertime or anytime! If you’ve ever wondered how to make an air fryer version that’s tasty and healthier than your typical deep-fried chicken tenders, give this recipe a shot: Cornbread-crusted Chicken Tenders.

It offers a great mix of flavors with the crunchy cornbread crust combined with the juicy texture of cooked chicken tenders…it is also relatively simple to put together in just over half an hour!

Remember the step-by-step directions and detailed ingredient list is below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page, as well as the nutritional information.

• Chicken: Use chicken tenderloins, boneless, skinless chicken breast, or boneless skinless chicken thighs
• Buttermilk: Will tenderize the chicken
• Cornbread Muffin Mix: I used Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, but any brand will work
• Flour: Use all-purpose flour or gluten-free flour

How to Make Cornbread Crusted Chicken Tenders In Air Fryer

If you’ve been looking for a delicious but easy dinner option, look no further than this recipe for air fryer cornbread crusted chicken tenders! Enjoy the crunch of traditional shallow fried chicken without all the oil and mess.

You’ll love how simple it is to make these crispy golden morsels in an air fryer. Plus, they’re full of flavor – try them with your favorite dipping sauce next time you want to switch up the classic nugget meal.

Step One: Marinade The Chicken

Combine the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix well. Place the chicken tenders in the buttermilk mixture, making sure they are fully coated. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator for more flavor).

Step Two: Dredge The Chicken

Combine the cornbread, all-purpose flour, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a separate bowl. Remove each chicken tender from the buttermilk mixture, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Roll the chicken tenders in the cornmeal mixture, pressing lightly to ensure a good coating.

Step Three: Add The Cornbread Coated Chicken Tenders To The Air Fryer

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Do not overcrowd them; you may need to cook them in batches. Lightly spray the top of the chicken tenders with cooking spray. This will help them become crisp and golden.

Step Four: Air Fry The Chicken

Place the basket in the preheated air fryer and cook the chicken tenders for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The cooking time may vary depending on the chicken tenders’ thickness and your air fryer’s efficiency. Ensure the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step Five: Serving

Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes to cool slightly. Serve the cornbread-crusted chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing.

Pro Tips For The Best Air Fryer Cornbread Crusted Chicken Tenders

Here are some pro tips to help you achieve the best results when making air fryer cornbread-crusted chicken tenders:

• Use Panko breadcrumbs: You can enhance the texture and crunchiness of the cornbread crust by mixing some Panko breadcrumbs with the cornmeal and flour mixture. Panko breadcrumbs are light and airy, resulting in a crispier coating.
• Preheat the air fryer: Preheating the air fryer is essential to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior. Allow the air fryer to preheat a few minutes before placing the chicken tenders inside.
• Shake off excess coating: Before placing the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer, gently shake off any excess coating. This will prevent the coating from becoming too thick and ensure a more even cooking process.
• Arrange in a single layer: To ensure even cooking and optimal crispiness, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, resulting in uneven cooking and a less crispy texture. If necessary, cook the tenders in multiple batches.
• Use cooking spray: Spray the chicken tenders with cooking spray or lightly brush them with oil before air frying. This will help promote browning and achieve a golden, crispy crust.
• Flip halfway through. Flip the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning on both sides. Use tongs or a spatula to turn them over gently.
• Check for doneness: It’s important to ensure the chicken tenders are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F (74°C). You can extend the cooking time slightly until the chicken is fully cooked.
• Rest before serving: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and helps maintain a moist and tender texture.

By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying perfectly crispy and flavorful cornbread-crusted chicken tenders from your air fryer.

Can I use a different type of flour for the cornbread crust?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of flour. While all-purpose flour is commonly used, you can try corn flour or a gluten-free blend for a different texture and flavor.

Can I make the cornbread crust mixture in advance?

It’s best to make the cornbread crust mixture fresh for optimal results. Preparing it in advance may result in a less crispy texture.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and coating them with the cornbread mixture. Adjust the cooking time, as frozen tenders may require a bit longer to cook.

Can I add spices or herbs to the cornbread crust mixture?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize the cornbread crust mixture by adding your favorite spices or herbs. You can add cayenne pepper for heat, dried herbs like thyme or oregano for extra flavor, or even some grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.

What dipping sauces go well with cornbread-crusted chicken tenders?

Various dipping sauces pair well with cornbread-crusted chicken tenders. Some popular choices include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, sriracha mayo, or sweet chili sauce. Feel free to explore and find your favorite combination!

Can I reheat leftovers?

You can reheat leftover cornbread-crusted chicken tenders in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore their crispy texture. Alternatively, you can use a conventional oven or toaster oven set to a moderate temperature until warmed through.

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