Air Fryer Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders are amazing. There is nothing better than an easy recipe for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders!

There is nothing better than juicy and perfectly seasoned air fryer chicken strips. Today I used crushed pretzels for the coating and served it with a side of honey mustard sauce.

If you have never had chicken strips covered with crushed pretzels, let me tell you they are life-changing! They are perfectly seasoned in every bite.

While I used some salted pretzels today, you can use any flavor of pretzels that you want, and there are some great varieties out there.

Are you looking for more Air Fryer Chicken Strip Recipes? Here are some of my favorites, AIR FRYER EASY CHICKEN TENDERS, AIR FRYER CHICKEN NUGGETS (CHICK-FIL-A COPYCAT), AIR FRYER EASY BUFFALO CHICKEN WRAP, and AIR FRYER RANCH CHICKEN BITES.

Air Fryer Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders

Nothing elevates the humble chicken tender like a crunchy, flavorful pretzel crust. And when you make these Air Fryer Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders, you’re not just getting a delicious twist on classic comfort food — you’re also getting a meal that’s healthier and easier to prepare. Cooking in the air fryer requires less oil than traditional deep-frying, resulting in a dish that’s lighter but just as tasty.

These chicken tenders are crusted in crushed pretzels, adding a salty crunch that pairs perfectly with the tender, juicy chicken inside. Whether you’re looking for a fun weeknight dinner idea, a unique appetizer, or a new way to convince the kids to eat their protein, these Air Fryer Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders will impress!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders

Air frying is a popular cooking method that requires minimal oil and can reduce your weekly meal prep time. Air Fryer Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders are an easy-to-make recipe, full of flavor and crunchy texture, making them a great choice for a weeknight meal. With some pantry staples like pretzels, eggs, chicken tenders, and spices already on hand at home, this dish is so delicious you may find that it becomes one of your family’s favorite recipes! Keep reading to learn what ingredients you need to make air fryer pretzel-crusted chicken tenders for dinner tonight!

• Chicken: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast, or use chicken tenderloins
• Salted Pretzels: For a gluten-free recipe, use gluten-free pretzels.
• Egg
• All-Purpose Flour
• Mayonnaise
• Seasonings and Spices: Kosher Salt (or Sea Salt) and Black Pepper
• Cooking Spray

How To Make Air Fryer Pretzel-Crusted Chicken Strips

Are you looking for a new way to create flavorful chicken strips that are ready in minutes? Look no further! Air fryer pretzel-crusted chicken strips are the perfect solution. Not only is this recipe healthy and delicious, but it’s also super quick and easy to make.

With just a few ingredients, an air fryer, and some melted butter or oil; you can whip up these delectable treats in under 15 minutes. Plus, there’s something special about the crunch of the pretzel crust combined with the juiciness of the chicken inside. Read on to learn how to make your own air fryer pretzel-crusted chicken strips!

Preheat the air fryer to 400 degrees F, air fryer setting.  Place pretzels in a Ziploc bag and crush them with a flat mallet or rolling pin.  Pour into a shallow bowl.  Mix egg, flour, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper in a separate shallow bowl, and whisk until well combined.

First, place chicken strips into egg batter, coating well on all sides.  Then coat with pretzels by pressing chicken strips into the mixture to help them stick.  Continue with all chicken strips and place them on parchment paper or a plate.

Grease the air fryer rack with oil.  Place strips into the basket in a single layer, leaving room in between.  Coat with a small amount of oil.  Cook for 3 minutes.  Flip and coat with a small amount of oil and cook additional 2-3 minutes.  Continue with the remaining strips. 

Pro Tips For Pretzel Chicken Tenders In Air Fryer

• Choose the Right Pretzels: Using hard pretzels (the traditional knotted kind or pretzel rods) will give you the best crunch. Avoid using soft pretzels as they will not provide the same texture.
• Crush Pretzels Finely: You want your pretzels to be finely crushed, similar to the consistency of breadcrumbs, for a more even coating. Too large, and they won’t stick properly to the chicken. You can use a food processor, place them in a ziplock bag, and crush them with a rolling pin.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs (Optional): To get an even crunchier coating, consider mixing your crushed pretzels with some Panko breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs can help fill in any gaps left by the crushed pretzels.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: Cook your tenders in batches if necessary for the best results. Overcrowding the air fryer can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy tenders.
• Turn the Tenders Halfway: Flip the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Check the Internal Temperature: A meat thermometer is the safest way to know if your chicken is done. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
• Keep the Coating On: To help the pretzel coating stick to the chicken, dip the chicken tenders in flour, the beaten egg, and finally, the crushed pretzels. This creates a “glue” that helps the pretzels adhere to the chicken.
• Spray with Oil: Before you start air frying, spray the pretzel-crusted chicken tenders with a bit of cooking oil. This will help them achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.

Remember, every air fryer model is a bit different, so these times might need to be adjusted based on your specific device. Always keep a close eye on your food to prevent overcooking or burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. You’ll need to cut them into strips about the size of tenders. However, remember that chicken breasts might require a slightly longer cooking time, depending on their thickness.

Can I use gluten-free pretzels for this recipe?

Absolutely! Substitute regular pretzels with your favorite gluten-free brand to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

What should I serve with these Pretzel Crusted Chicken Tenders?

These chicken tenders go well with various dips, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. For a complete meal, consider serving them with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a green salad.

Can I make these ahead of time?

While these tenders are best enjoyed right after cooking, you can prepare them ahead of time by doing all the steps up until air frying. Store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?

Store leftover pretzel-crusted chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through. This will also help to re-crisp the pretzel coating.

How do I prevent the pretzel coating from falling off?

Make sure to press the crushed pretzels onto the chicken well after dipping in the egg. Some pieces might still fall off during cooking, but if you’ve pressed well, most of the coating should stay on the chicken.

How do you cook frozen breaded chicken tenders in an air fryer?

Place the frozen chicken tenders into the air fryer basket and set the temperature to 390 degrees F, air fryer setting.

Cook for 10 to 12 minutes until fully cooked. Check to make sure they are completely cooked before removing them.

Can I use pretzels as breadcrumbs?

Yes, there is nothing better than pretzel-coated chicken. There are so many varieties to choose from, and it’s an easy way to get the great flavor of chicken without doing much.

Use the crushed pretzels the same way you would use breadcrumbs as a coating.

What Type Of Dipping Sauce Can You Serve These With?

Today, I served it with my homemade honey mustard sauce, which goes amazing with pretzels, but here are some other great dipping sauces: (affiliate links included)

• Stonewall Kitchen Honey Mustard Dip, 9 Ounces
• Stonewall Kitchen Raspberry Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce, 12.5 oz
• Spicy Mustard with Green Jalapeno Peppers, Pretzel Dipping Sauce
• Nunda Mustard, Spicy Horseradish Caraway, Pretzel Dipping Sauce

What Type Of Pretzels Can I Use As The Coating?

While today I used a simple salted pretzel, you can use anything; some of my favorite pretzels to use: (affiliate links included)

• Snack Factory Everything Pretzel Crisps 7.2oz (2 pack)
• Snack Factory Sea Salt & Cracked Pepper Pretzel Crisps 7.2oz (2 pack)
• Gratify Gluten Free Everything Thins Pretzels 2 oz | 8 pack
• 2 Packs of Gratify Gluten Free Everything Thins Pretzels (Net Wt 24 .64 OZ Per Unit)

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

yes, all you need to do is to change the pretzels to great Gluten-Free Pretzels and use gluten-free Flour, and you have a kid-friendly and family-friendly meal.

That is also gluten-free.

Some of my favorite Gluten Free Pretzels Are:

• 2 Packs of Gratify Gluten Free Everything Thins Pretzels (Net Wt 24 .64 OZ Per Unit)
• Snyder’s of Hanover Gluten Free Mini Pretzels, 8 Ounce (Pack of 12)
• Snyder’s of Hanover Gluten Free Pretzel variety pack

Can I Make This Recipe Low-Carb or KETO Friendly?

I would change the flour to almond flour and use a Low-Carb and KETO-friendly pretzel substitute.

Some possibilities include: (affiliate links included)

1. From the Ground Up Pretzel Bundle Two 4.5 Ounce Bags: One Bag Original Twists One Bag Original Sticks
2. Weight Loss Systems Protein Pretzel Twists, 12g Protein, Low Calorie, Low Fat, Low Carb, High Fiber, Kosher, KETO Diet Friendly, Ideal Protein

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