Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Tenders — Do you crave juicy, succulent chicken tenders that are full of flavor? Look no further than this easy air fryer recipe.

Not only is it simple and quick to make, but the end result also boasts an unbeatable taste. Perfectly seasoned with various spices, such as paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, these spicy chicken tenders will feed your cravings and stomach!

The Best Air-Fried Spicy Chicken Tenders

Air fryers are a game-changer in creating crispy, flavorful chicken tenders without all the excess oil and fat. If you’re a fan of spicy food, then these air-fried spicy chicken tenders will surely be a hit.

They’re easy to make and packed with flavor, making them the perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering with friends and family. So fire up your air fryer and get ready to enjoy some seriously delicious spicy chicken tenders!

Ingredients Needed For Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for an easy and delicious way to cook up some savory, crispy chicken tenders, look no further than your trusty air fryer! Air fryers are excellent tools that help you whip up a delicious meal with minimal effort. We’ve compiled all of the ingredients needed for making some delectable air fryer spicy chicken tenders that will have your family craving more! Let’s get cooking!

Remember the step-by-step directions are below in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the page, as well as the nutritional information.

• Chicken Tenders: You can also use sliced, or whole chicken breasts
• Buttermilk: This will help tenderize the chicken
• Tabasco Sauce
• Flour: Use all-purpose flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour
• Egg: Use large eggs at room temperature
• Cornflakes: You can also use panko breadcrumbs or crushed pork rinds
• Seasonings and Spices: Garlic Powder, Kosher Salt, Black Pepper, Pairka, Onion Powder, Creaiole Seasonings

How To Cook Spicy Chicken Tenders In Air Fryer

Do you love chicken tenders but want to up your game and make them with a kick of spice? Look no further – the air fryer is the perfect tool for making delicious, spicy chicken tenders in no time. This speedy cooking method packs a flavorful punch without requiring too much effort!

Keep reading to find out how easy it is to make your own mouthwatering, crispy, spicy chicken tenders at home; all you need are simple ingredients, an air fryer, and this guide!

Step One: Prepare The Marinade

Mix the buttermilk, Tabasco sauce, garlic powder, and one teaspoon of Creole Seasoning.

Step Two: Marinade The Chicken

Either add the chicken tenders to the bowl, place the chicken tenders into a re-sealable bag, and pour the marinade over the chicken tenders. Refrigerate for 2-3 hours.

Step Three: Prepare Your Dredging Stations

Drain the chicken, and discard the buttermilk mixture; season your chicken tenders with kosher salt and black pepper.

Add the flour, paprika, onion powder, and the Creole seasoning in a large mixing bowl, and mix well. Add the eggs to another medium-sized mixing bowl, and whisk until frothy with a fork. In the third large bowl, add the crushed cornflakes.

Step Four: Dredge The Chicken

Place the chicken into the flour mixture, then into the eggs, and finally in the cornflakes. Preheat the air fryer to 360 degrees F, and spay the air fryer basket with cooking spray or non-stick cooking spray.

Step Five: Air Fry Spicy Chicken Tenders

Place your chicken tenders into the air fryer basket, and then spray the coating with cooking spray or brush with olive oil. Set the cook time for 10 minutes, flipping halfway during the cooking process.

Before removing, make sure your spicy chicken tenders are 165 degrees F by inserting a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken.

Step Six: Serving

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro Tips For The Best Air Fryer Spicy Chicken Tenders

• To ensure maximum crispiness, use cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Let the chicken marinate in the buttermilk mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to ensure it’s flavorful and tender.
• Preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and a crispy exterior.
• Make sure to space the chicken tenders evenly in the air fryer basket so that they cook evenly.
• To avoid the breading falling off, use cooking spray to lightly coat the chicken before placing it in the air fryer.
• Check the internal temperature of the chicken using a meat thermometer to ensure it has reached 165°F before serving.
• Serve the chicken tenders immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make the chicken tenders crispy in the air fryer?

To make chicken tenders crispy in the air fryer, it’s important to coat them in a thin layer of oil or cooking spray before cooking. Additionally, ensure the air fryer is preheated to the recommended temperature and the chicken tenders are evenly spaced in the basket to ensure they cook evenly. Avoid overcrowding the basket, leading to uneven cooking and less crispy results. Finally, cook the chicken tenders until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping them halfway through the cooking time if necessary.

What spices should I use to make the chicken tenders spicy?

You can use a variety of spices to make the chicken tenders spicy, such as cayenne pepper, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. It really depends on your personal preference and desired level of spiciness.

How long should I cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer?

The cooking time for air fryer spicy chicken tenders may vary depending on the chicken’s thickness and the air fryer’s temperature. However, a general rule of thumb is to cook the chicken tenders for about 10-12 minutes at 375°F.

Flipping the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time is important to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F for safe consumption.

Should I marinate the chicken tenders before cooking them in the air fryer?

While marinating the chicken tenders before cooking in the air fryer is optional, it can add flavor and moisture to the meat. If you choose to marinate, you can use a spicy marinade to complement the spicy coating. However, be sure to pat the chicken tenders dry before coating and cooking them in the air fryer to ensure a crispy exterior.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer, and if so, how do I adjust the cooking time?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer. To adjust the cooking time, you may need to increase it by 5-7 minutes or until the chicken tenders are cooked through, and the coating is crispy. It’s best to check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders with a meat thermometer to ensure that they are fully cooked. The USDA recommends cooking chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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