Air fryers have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These appliances allow you to cook your favorite foods with a fraction of the oil traditionally used in deep frying. One dish that is particularly well-suited for the air fryer is chicken tenders. In this article, we will walk you through the process of making delicious chicken tenders in the Ninja Air Fryer.
Gathering the Ingredients
The first step in making delicious chicken tenders in the Ninja Air Fryer is to gather all the necessary ingredients. For this recipe, you will need chicken breast tenders, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, flour, eggs, and cooking spray. Make sure everything is fresh and ready to use before you begin.
Preparing the Chicken Tenders
Before you start cooking, you need to prepare the chicken tenders. Begin by rinsing the chicken tenders under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This will ensure any excess moisture is removed and help the coating adhere better to the chicken.
Creating the Coating
The next step is to create the coating for the chicken tenders. In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir the ingredients together until they are well combined. This mixture will give your chicken tenders a flavorful and crispy coating.
Dredging the Chicken Tenders
Once the coating is ready, it’s time to dredge the chicken tenders. Start by coating each chicken tender in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip the chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, roll the chicken tender in the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it is coated evenly on all sides. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.
Using the Ninja Air Fryer
Now that the chicken tenders are coated and ready to go, it’s time to use the Ninja Air Fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. While the air fryer is preheating, lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Air Frying the Chicken Tenders
Once the air fryer is preheated, carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t touch each other. Close the air fryer and set the timer for 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, open the air fryer and flip the chicken tenders using tongs. This will ensure they cook evenly on both sides. Close the air fryer and cook for another 6-8 minutes or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through.
Serving the Chicken Tenders
Once the chicken tenders are cooked to perfection, carefully remove them from the air fryer using tongs. Transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Chicken tenders are often enjoyed as a main dish or as a delightful appetizer. They pair well with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. Serve the chicken tenders alongside some crispy french fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
While the process described above will yield delicious chicken tenders, here are a few additional tips and variations to consider:
1. If you prefer a spicier flavor, you can add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
2. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour.
3. Experiment with different coatings by swapping out the breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes, panko breadcrumbs, or crushed pretzels.
4. For a healthier twist, you can use skinless chicken breast instead of chicken tenders. Simply cut the chicken breast into strips and follow the same coating and cooking process.
5. Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket as it can impede the hot air circulation and result in uneven cooking. Cook the chicken tenders in multiple batches if needed.
Conclusion
Making delicious chicken tenders in the Ninja Air Fryer is both simple and rewarding. With a well-seasoned coating and the magic of air frying, you can enjoy crispy, golden brown chicken tenders without the guilt of deep frying. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps outlined in this article, and get ready to indulge in a plate of perfectly cooked chicken tenders that will surely satisfy your cravings.