Looking for a healthier version of your favorite chicken tenders? These air fryer unbreaded chicken tenders are not just easy to make, they’re incredibly flavorful too! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying snack, you’ll love how simple and delicious they are.
Imagine juicy pieces of chicken marinated with your favorite seasonings, cooked to perfection in an air fryer. The result? Tender, succulent chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside and moist on the inside, without the need for any breading. It’s a lightened-up recipe that’s bursting with flavor.
Healthy and Flavorful Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer
The air fryer has become a favorite tool in many kitchens, allowing home cooks to prepare dishes with a crispy texture while using less oil.
These unbreaded chicken tenders are a prime example of how to enjoy a classic dish in a healthier way.
With simple seasonings and the magic of air frying, you can achieve a delightful crunch without the guilt that usually comes from traditional breaded options.
Simple Preparation Steps
To get started, you’ll want to gather your chicken and seasonings.
First, cut your chicken breast into strips, ensuring they’re all similar in size for even cooking.
Coating the chicken in olive oil not only helps the spices adhere but also contributes to that crispy finish when cooked in the air fryer.
Seasoning is key to flavor, so mix in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, oregano, and cayenne for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Make sure each piece is well-coated to enhance the taste.
Cooking to Perfection
Next, preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
This step is essential for achieving that golden brown color and crispy exterior.
Once your air fryer is ready, arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, ensuring there’s space between each piece for optimal airflow.
Cooking should take about 10-12 minutes, with a halfway flip to ensure even browning.
Check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to confirm they’re fully cooked.
Once done, allow them to rest briefly before serving, allowing the juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful presentation, arrange the chicken tenders on a plate and garnish with fresh parsley.
This not only adds color but also a hint of freshness that complements the savory flavors of the chicken.
Pair your tenders with a small bowl of spicy dipping sauce for an extra kick, making them perfect for parties or family gatherings.
This dish is not just a fantastic main course but also works well as a snack or appetizer.
Consider serving alongside fresh vegetables for a balanced meal or with a side of your favorite dipping sauce for added flavor.
Nutrition and Enjoyment
The beauty of these air fryer chicken tenders lies in their nutritional value.
With approximately 220 calories per serving and a generous amount of protein, they fit well into a healthy diet while delivering on taste.
The absence of breading helps keep the carbohydrate count at zero, making this a suitable option for various dietary preferences.
Enjoying these chicken tenders is not just about satisfying hunger; it’s also about indulging in a meal that feels good to eat.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, these tenders are sure to impress.
Try them out and see how they can easily become a staple in your meal rotation.
Healthy and Flavorful Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer
These unbreaded chicken tenders are seasoned to perfection and cooked in an air fryer for a crispy texture without the extra calories from breading. Each bite is juicy and flavorful, making them a fantastic option for health-conscious eaters and busy families alike.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken strips with olive oil and toss to coat evenly.
- Season: Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the chicken. Mix until all the pieces are well coated with the spices.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 0g