Prepare the Chicken: Start by patting the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps the seasonings adhere better and ensures a crispier result.
Create the Blackened Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your desired level of spiciness.
Coat the Chicken: Drizzle a bit of olive oil over the chicken tenderloins or use cooking spray to lightly coat them. This will help the seasonings stick. Sprinkle the blackened seasoning mix evenly over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated on both sides.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for a few minutes. This ensures the chicken starts cooking immediately.
Air Fry the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don't overlap. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model, so use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Once the chicken tenders are cooked through and have a crispy, blackened exterior, remove them from the air fryer. Let them rest for a minute before serving to lock in their juiciness.
Enjoy: Serve your Blackened Chicken Tenders as a main course or in sandwiches, wraps, or salads for a versatile and flavorful meal.