Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders — Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders are the perfect meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. They’re quick, easy to make, filling for dinner, and absolutely delicious!

This recipe will surely be an instant hit with your family with a combination of crisp golden coating, juicy chicken meat cooked to perfection, and a light lemon-pepper seasoning that compliments it all. Best of all? These tenders require minimal fussing in the kitchen: combine ingredients into your air fryer basket and let it do its frying magic!

Easy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders

Dive into the zesty world of citrus and spice with these Easy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders! Perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these chicken tenders deliver an irresistible combination of tangy lemon zest and bold pepper notes.

Whether you’re catering to a busy weeknight dinner, a family movie night, or a casual get-together, this air fryer recipe is your shortcut to a meal that’s not just delicious but also boasts a healthier twist. Join the air fryer revolution, and let’s transform simple ingredients into a gourmet experience!

If you are looking for even easier air fryer chicken recipes, some of my favorites are air fryer jamaican jerk chicken wings, air fryer copycat buffalo wild wings lemon pepper wings, and easy air fryer frozen chicken tenders (no breading).

Why You’ll Love This Easy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tender Recipe

• Quick and Convenient: With the air fryer, these chicken tenders cook faster than traditional oven-baking, saving you time and energy.
• Healthier Option: Air frying uses significantly less oil than deep frying, giving you a tasty yet lower-fat treat.
• Perfect Crispiness: The air fryer ensures the tenders are perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside.
• Bold Flavors: The zesty combination of lemon and pepper provides a burst of flavor with every bite, making it a hit among adults and kids alike.
• Versatility: These chicken tenders can be served as a main dish, a snack, or even chopped up in salads or wraps for added protein.
• Few Ingredients: You don’t need a long list of ingredients. Simple yet flavorful components make this recipe both accessible and delicious.
• Easy Cleanup: Using the air fryer means fewer dishes and an easier cleanup. Say goodbye to greasy pans and pots!
• Kid-Friendly: The familiar taste of chicken tenders combined with the mild zest of lemon pepper makes it a dish that even picky eaters will love.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner, a potluck, or a game-day snack, these chicken tenders fit right in.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your preference, making it spicier or milder based on your taste.

With all these compelling reasons, it’s hard not to love this Easy Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tender recipe. Give it a try and savor the deliciousness!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders

Are you looking for a quick and tasty main dish that the whole family will love? Air fryer lemon pepper chicken tenders are a great option! These bite-sized pieces of juicy, lemony goodness cook up in no time. They come together quickly and are incredibly flavorful with just the right amount of zing, thanks to fresh lemon juice and cracked black pepper.

Below, I’ll share all the ingredients needed to whip up a delicious batch of air-fried chicken tenders and instructions on getting a crisp exterior while keeping your meat moist and tender. So, if you’re ready to tackle this easy yet impressive dinner, let’s dive in and learn what ingredients we need for air fryer lemon pepper chicken tenders!

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

• Chicken Tenders: The star of our dish, chicken tenders are boneless, lean, and cook quickly, offering a juicy and tender bite every time.
• Panko Bread Crumbs: Panko crumbs, known for their light and airy texture, ensure that the chicken tenders achieve that perfect crispy crunch when air-fried, distinguishing them from regular breadcrumbs.
• Lemon Zest: Freshly grated lemon zest infuses the chicken with a bright and tangy citrus flavor, enhancing the overall taste profile of the tenders.
• Ground Black Pepper: This spice adds a kick and pairs wonderfully with the lemon zest, giving the chicken that signature lemon-pepper taste.
• Salt: An essential seasoning, salt helps to elevate all the flavors in the dish and balances out the tanginess of the lemon.
• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: A light coat ensures the tenders don’t stick to the air fryer and helps the panko achieve a beautiful golden brown color.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binding agent, helping the panko crumbs adhere to the chicken tenders efficiently.
• Garlic Powder (optional): For those who love a hint of garlic, this adds an extra layer of flavor, complementing the zestiness of the lemon.
• Flour: Dredging the chicken in flour before dipping it in egg and panko ensures an even coat and contributes to the crispiness of the end product.
• Parsley (for garnish, optional): Freshly chopped parsley can be sprinkled on top for a pop of color and a subtle earthy flavor.

These ingredients come together beautifully in the air fryer, offering a delightful play of textures and flavors to make your Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders an instant hit!

How To Make Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders In Air Fryer

Time to put fried chicken into a healthier perspective – with an Air Fryer! Making lemon pepper chicken tenders in the comfort of your own home can now be both flavorful and guilt-free.

With this easy recipe, you’ll learn how to utilize your air fryer for quick and crunchy breaded tenders that rival restaurant versions yet are low-calorie and full of flavor. Our delicious homemade fuss-less take on traditional fried favorites uses only pantry staples you probably already have.

Preparation:

• Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
• Zest 1-2 lemons in a bowl until you have the desired amount for your seasoning mix.

Prepare the Dredging Station:

• Bowl 1: Add flour, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Mix well.
• Bowl 2: Whisk eggs until well beaten.
• Bowl 3: Combine the panko bread crumbs, lemon zest, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Ensure it’s mixed thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.

Dredging Process:

• Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture (Bowl 1) and shake off any excess.
• Next, dip it into the beaten eggs (Bowl 2), ensuring it’s fully coated.
• Finally, press the chicken tender into the panko-lemon pepper mixture (Bowl 3), ensuring it’s well-coated on all sides. Set aside on a plate and repeat for all tenders.

Air Frying:

• Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
• Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Ensure they aren’t touching or overlapping for even cooking.
• Spray the tops of the chicken tenders lightly with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help achieve a golden-brown crust.
• Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning the tenders halfway through until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serving:

• Once done, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer.
• Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.
• Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, and enjoy!

These Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders are bound to become a family favorite. The air fryer ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy, making it a healthier alternative to the traditionally fried version. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips For Cooking Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders

• Ensure Even Coating: To achieve that perfect crisp, ensure the chicken tenders are uniformly coated. Press the panko mixture onto the chicken gently to ensure it adheres well.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Place chicken tenders in a single layer without overlapping in the air fryer. This ensures even cooking and optimum crispiness.
• Use Fresh Lemon Zest: Always opt for fresh lemon zest over bottled for the best flavor. The fresher the zest, the more vibrant the citrus flavor.
• Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the tenders are cooked through and safe to eat.
• Customize Your Spice: Adjust the black pepper according to your taste. If you love a stronger pepper kick, add a bit more!
• Shake or Turn: Halfway through the cooking process, turn or gently shake the basket. This promotes even browning on all sides.
• Stay Vigilant: Since air fryers can vary in power and heat distribution, keep an eye on your chicken tenders, especially the first time you make them. Adjust the time accordingly in future cooking sessions.
• Let Them Rest: Once cooked, let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This will help retain their juices, ensuring they’re moist when bitten.
• Dipping Sauces: Lemon pepper flavor pairs well with a variety of sauces. Consider serving with a lemony aioli, ranch dressing, or spicy honey dip.
• Storage and Reheating: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. For reheating, pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore crispiness.

Armed with these pro tips, your journey to making the perfect Air Fryer Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders will be even smoother. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! If using chicken breasts, slice them into strips similar to the size of chicken tenders. Adjust the cooking time as needed.

I don’t have panko. Can I use regular breadcrumbs?

You can use regular breadcrumbs, but the texture might differ slightly. Panko offers a unique crispiness, while regular breadcrumbs give a finer crust.

Can these be made ahead of time?

You can prepare and coat the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge for a few hours. However, for the best results, air fry them just before serving.

What’s the best dipping sauce to pair with these?

Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders are versatile and go well with various dips, from ranch to honey mustard to spicy aioli. Choose according to your preference!

How do I store leftovers?

Place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’re best consumed within 2-3 days.

How can I reheat the chicken tenders without losing their crispiness?

The best way to reheat is by using the air fryer again at 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes until they’re heated through.

Can I freeze the coated but uncooked chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze them. Place them on a tray in a single layer to freeze initially. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag. When ready to cook, air fry them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I add other seasonings to the mix?

Certainly! Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your taste. For additional flavor, consider adding spices like paprika, cayenne, or onion powder.

Why is my coating not sticking well to the chicken?

Make sure the chicken is patted dry before dredging. Also, following the flour-egg-panko sequence correctly ensures a proper coating.

Is there an alternative to egg for the dredging process?

Yes, you can use buttermilk or a milk and yogurt mix as an alternative to the egg wash.

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