Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are golden and crunchy on the outside while juicy and tender inside. Served with a creamy honey mustard dip, they’re a healthier and faster alternative to deep frying, perfect for weeknight meals or snacks.
Author:Emma Harper
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:12 minutes
Total Time:27 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Air Frying
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
UnitsScale
1lb chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips
1/2cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon water
1cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray
1/4cup mayonnaise (for dip)
2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (for dip)
1 tablespoon honey (for dip)
1 teaspoon lemon juice (for dip)
Instructions
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs mixed with water, and one with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Coat each chicken strip in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
Place coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
While chicken cooks, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice in a small bowl to make the dip.
Serve chicken tenders hot with honey mustard dip on the side.
Notes
For extra crispy tenders, use panko breadcrumbs.
You can substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise in the dip for a lighter version.
Add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if necessary.