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Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Strips: A Healthier, Delicious Alternative

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Strips: A Healthier, Delicious Alternative


  • Author: kynall

Description

Make crispy air fryer chicken strips with less oil for a healthier meal. Quick, simple, and delicious. Perfect for snacks or dinner in under 15 minutes!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds chicken tenders (about 14 tenders)
  • 2 teaspoons kosher salt, divided
  • 2 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ⅓ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • Olive oil spray

Optional Dipping Sauces:

  • Greek Yogurt Ranch Dip
  • Honey Mustard Sauce
  • Barbecue Sauce
  • Basil Yogurt Sauce

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken:
    • Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt.
  2. Set Up Coating Station:
    • In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
    • In a separate shallow bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, whole wheat breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and the remaining 1½ teaspoons of salt.
  3. Coat the Chicken:
    • Dip each chicken tender into the beaten egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture. Gently press the breadcrumbs to stick.
  4. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray.
  5. Cook the Chicken:
    • Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch. Spray the tops of the tenders with oil. Cook for 7-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches at least 165°F.
  6. Repeat:
    • Cook the remaining tenders, keeping the cooked ones warm in the oven if necessary. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

  • To Store: Keep cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • To Reheat: Use a 350°F oven, air fryer, or microwave.
  • To Freeze: Freeze cooked chicken tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen.

Notes

Enjoy your crispy, healthier air fryer chicken strips!