Description
These Air-Fried KFC Tenders are crispy, flavorful, and healthier than traditional fried chicken. Perfect for family meals or game day, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
Scale
-
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/3 cup Greek yogurt (or buttermilk)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1/4 cup cornmeal
- Olive oil spray
Spice Mix:
- 1 tablespoon celery salt
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon mustard powder
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions
-
Make the Spice Mix:
- In a small bowl, combine all the spice mix ingredients. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
-
Prepare the Chicken:
- Remove the tendons from the chicken tenders. Use a paper towel for grip, hold the tendon, and slide a fork back and forth to remove it.
-
Make the Marinade:
- In a Ziploc bag, combine 1 tablespoon of the spice mix with 1/3 cup Greek yogurt. Add the chicken tenders and mix well to coat. Marinate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
-
Prepare the Coating:
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, breadcrumbs, cornmeal, and the remaining spice mix.
-
Coat the Chicken:
- Add half the coating mixture to a clean Ziploc bag. Add half the marinated chicken tenders, trap air in the bag, and shake to coat evenly. Repeat with the remaining chicken.
-
Air Fry the Tenders:
- Arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray generously with olive oil to ensure even browning.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 12 minutes. Flip the tenders, spray the other side with olive oil, and cook for an additional 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy.
-
Serve:
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like barbecue, ketchup, buffalo sauce, or ranch.
Notes
- Marinate the chicken overnight for maximum tenderness and flavor.
- Ensure the tenders are fully coated in oil before air frying for a golden, crispy finish.
- Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Marinate: 3 hours
- Cook Time: 22 minutes