Buttermilk chicken tenders are a delicious and flavorful dish that many people love. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, making them a perfect meal for any occasion. And what better way to make them than in an air fryer? This quick and easy recipe will guide you through the process of making mouthwatering buttermilk chicken tenders in your air fryer.
Gathering the Ingredients
To create the tastiest buttermilk chicken tenders, you will need a few key ingredients. Start by gathering the following:
– 1 pound of chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup of buttermilk
– 1 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– 1 teaspoon of garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon of onion powder
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
– Cooking spray
Marinating the Chicken
Before diving into the air frying process, it’s crucial to marinate the chicken in buttermilk. This step helps to tenderize the meat and infuse it with flavor. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Place the chicken tenders in a bowl and pour the buttermilk over them.
2. Make sure all the chicken is fully submerged in the buttermilk.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Preparing the Coating
While the chicken is marinating, now is the perfect time to prepare the coating that will give your chicken tenders that crispy exterior. The simple but flavorful combination of spices will take your tenders to the next level. Follow these steps:
1. In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
2. Mix the dry ingredients together until well combined.
The Air Frying Process
Now that your chicken has marinated and the coating is ready, it’s time to start the air frying process!
Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) for about 3 minutes. This will ensure your chicken cooks evenly and achieves that perfect golden brown crispiness.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
First, remove a chicken tender from the buttermilk marinade, allowing any excess liquid to drip off. Next, place the chicken in the coating mixture, making sure to coat it thoroughly on all sides. Gently press the coating onto the chicken to ensure it adheres properly.
Step 3: Arrange the Chicken in the Air Fryer
Once coated, carefully place the chicken tenders into the preheated air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd the basket, as this can prevent proper air circulation and result in uneven cooking.
Step 4: Air Fry
Close the air fryer and set the timer for 10 minutes. During this time, the chicken will cook and become crispy on the outside while remaining juicy on the inside. After the initial 10 minutes, open the air fryer and flip the chicken tenders using tongs or a fork. This step ensures even cooking on both sides.
Step 5: Final Cooking Time
Close the air fryer again and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius). This final cooking time ensures that the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Serving and Enjoying
Once your buttermilk chicken tenders are done cooking, remove them from the air fryer and allow them to cool for a few minutes. This short resting period will help retain their crispiness. Serve the tenders alongside your favorite dipping sauce, such as barbecue sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. They pair perfectly with a side of crispy fries, a refreshing salad, or some tasty coleslaw.
In conclusion, making buttermilk chicken tenders in an air fryer is a quick and easy way to achieve a delicious and healthier version of this beloved dish. With the right marinating time and a flavorful coating, your tenders will turn out crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy these delectable chicken tenders with your family and friends?