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Air Fryer Copycat Bojangles Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Copycat Bojangles Chicken Tenders

5 from 4 votes
Author: Fork To Spoon
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings

Description

Crisp, tender, and seasoned to perfection, these Copycat Bojangles Chicken Tenders will satisfy your fast-food cravings without ever leaving your home. Using the air fryer, you'll achieve the golden-brown crust and juicy interior that you love, all with a fraction of the oil. These tenders are perfect for a quick dinner, game day snack, or whenever you're in the mood for some finger-licking goodness. Let's dive into how to recreate this classic in your air fryer!

Ingredients 

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper, adjust to taste
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  • Marinate Chicken: In a large mixing bowl, combine chicken tenders and buttermilk. Ensure all pieces are submerged. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes (longer for more flavor).
  • Prepare Breadcrumbs: In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
  • Preheat Air Fryer: Set the air fryer to 400°F and let it preheat for about 5 minutes.
  • Bread Chicken: Remove each chicken tender from the buttermilk, letting the excess drip off. Dredge each piece through the breadcrumb mixture, pressing firmly to adhere. Lay breaded tenders on a tray.
  • Air Fry: Place chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not touching. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
  • Cook: Air fry at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Serve: Remove from air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes on a cooling rack. Serve hot with your choice of dipping sauce.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Cooking Spray
  • Parchment Paper, optional

Notes

Notes:
  • For best results, do not overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches if necessary.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper for desired spice level.
  • Can be paired with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
Storage:
  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • To reheat, air fry at 375°F for 3-4 minutes or until heated through.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 261kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 29gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gTrans Fat: 0.01gCholesterol: 79mgSodium: 360mgPotassium: 566mgFiber: 1gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 276IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 119mgIron: 2mg