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Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken Tenders

Name: Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon water; 1 cup Flamin Hot Cheetos (crushed)

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Spice up your mealtime with Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken Tenders! Crispy, flavorful, and packed with a fiery kick, this easy recipe is perfect for snack time or dinner.

Crispy and spicy Air Fryer Flamin' Hot Chicken Tenders served on a plate with dipping sauce.

Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken is the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and spicy! Coated with a fiery Flamin’ Hot Cheetos crust, this recipe delivers bold flavor with every bite.

The air fryer ensures a crunchy exterior while keeping the chicken tender and juicy inside, all without the need for deep frying. Perfect for game day, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving a spicy kick, this easy-to-make dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it with your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate flavor-packed experience!.

I served these on top of a great big bowl of rice, and it’s so healthy and amazing. I love healthy meals in the air fryer. If you do not want to serve this over salad, it is great with some of my great air fryer side dishes, such as Air Fryer Sweet Potato French Fries or even an Air Fryer Baked Potato.

Crispy Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken Tenders served on a plate with a side of dipping sauce.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

Bold Flavor: The Flamin’ Hot Cheetos crust packs a fiery, tangy punch that spice lovers will adore.
Crispy Texture: The air fryer creates a perfectly crunchy exterior without the need for deep frying.
Juicy Chicken: The chicken stays tender and juicy on the inside, making every bite satisfying.
Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time.
Healthier Option: Air frying reduces oil usage, offering a lighter take on a traditionally fried favorite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners, it’s a guaranteed hit with any audience.
Customizable Spice: You can adjust the heat level to suit your personal taste preferences.

Ingredients Needed

Chicken Breasts or Chicken Tenders: Provides a juicy and tender base for the crispy coating.
All-Purpose Flour: Helps the coating stick to the chicken and creates a crispy outer layer.
Eggs: Acts as a binding agent to hold the crushed Cheetos onto the chicken.
Crushed Cheetos: The star ingredient that adds bold flavor and a spicy, crunchy crust.
Cooking Spray: Ensures the chicken crisps up evenly in the air fryer without sticking.

How To Make Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken

In a large mixing bowl, add your flour, and then add your chicken, coat both sides.

Step One: Start by coating your chicken with the flour.

Coating chicken with egg wash made from beaten egg and water mixture."

Step Two: Coat your chicken with the egg wash. (Beat the egg with 1 tablespoon of water)

Firmly pressing the coating onto the chicken to ensure it sticks.

Step Three: Press the coating on top of the chicken, press firmly, so that it stays.

Spraying air fryer basket, placing chicken inside, setting temperature to 370°F, and cooking for 10-15 minutes. Checking internal temperature for 165°F.

Step Four: Spray the air fryer basket, set the chicken into the air fryer basket, and set the temperature to 370 degrees F, air fryer setting, set cook time for 10-15 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to make sure that the chicken is fully cooked before removing it. The internal temperature of the chicken should be 165 degrees F.

Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken Tenders with a crispy, spicy coating.

Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken Recipe Tips

Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders will yield the best texture, as frozen tenders may release excess moisture during cooking, which can affect the coating.
Pat Dry: Always pat the chicken dry with paper towels before coating it. This helps the egg wash and seasoning stick better.
Double Coating: For an extra crispy texture, dip the chicken in the egg wash and then coat it with the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos crumbs. You can repeat this process to create a thicker coating.
Spray with Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray before air frying to ensure a golden, crispy finish.
Monitor Temperature: Always check the chicken’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer to make sure it reaches 165°F for safety and optimal tenderness.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fry the chicken in batches if necessary to allow air circulation and ensure even cooking.
Adjust Spice Level: If the Flamin’ Hot Cheetos are too spicy, use regular Cheetos or reduce the amount for a milder version.
Let It Rest: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking so the coating sets and doesn’t fall off.

Storing

Storing: Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing to prevent moisture buildup. Store them in an airtight container or resealable bag in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Freezing: Pre-freeze the chicken tenders by laying them out in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, wrap them individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating: To reheat from the refrigerator, air fry the chicken at 375°F for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through. For frozen tenders, cook them at 375°F for 8-10 minutes until crispy and heated through.

Air Fryer Flamin' Hot Chicken Tenders with a crispy, spicy Flamin' Hot Cheetos coating.

What To Serve With Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken

Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken pairs well with a variety of sides that complement its spicy, crispy flavor. For a cooling contrast, serve it with a side of creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. You can also add some crunchy coleslaw or a fresh green salad to balance the heat. For a more filling meal, consider pairing it with seasoned fries, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes. A simple serving of corn on the cob or cornbread also makes a great accompaniment

Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken Recipe Faqs

Can I use regular chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders? Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Just slice them into strips or bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer.

How can I make the chicken less spicy? To reduce the spice, you can use regular Cheetos or reduce the amount of Flamin’ Hot Cheetos used in the coating.

How can I keep the coating from falling off? Make sure to press the coating firmly onto the chicken and lightly spray the chicken with cooking spray before air frying to help the coating stay intact.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders? Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but they may take a little longer to cook. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked? Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F. This ensures the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat.

Air Fryer Flamin’ Hot Chicken Tenders with a crispy Flamin' Hot Cheetos crust.

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