No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Name: No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 17 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken tenders; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Published: January 6, 2026

by kaeli

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 17 minutes from start to finish, perfect for those hectic nights.
Healthy Choice: With minimal oil and no breading, these tenders offer a guilt-free indulgence.
Flavorful Seasoning: The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika creates an irresistible taste that everyone will love.
Versatile Dish: Serve them as an appetizer, in wraps, or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal.
Kid-Friendly: These chicken tenders are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making them great for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools. Having everything ready will help streamline the process and make it more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Air fryer
Small mixing bowl
Measuring spoons
Paper towels
Plate

Importance of Each Tool

Air fryer: This tool is essential for achieving that perfect crispy texture without the need for breading or excessive oil.
Small mixing bowl: A handy bowl makes it easy to mix your seasoning blend effectively.
Measuring spoons: Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor every time you make these chicken tenders.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

2 pounds chicken tenders
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp pepper

How to Make No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Seasoning Mix

In a small bowl, mix together the following ingredients:
1. 1 tsp garlic powder
2. 1 tsp onion powder
3. 1 tsp paprika
4. 1/2 tsp salt
5. 1/2 tsp pepper

Set aside once combined.

Step 2: Season the Chicken Tenders

Pat the chicken tenders dry using paper towels. Lay them on a plate or additional paper towels and do the following:
1. Sprinkle half of the seasoning mix over one side of the chicken tenders.
2. Rub it in gently to ensure even coverage.
3. Flip each tender and season the other side with the remaining seasoning mix, rubbing it in as well.

Now you’re ready to cook! Enjoy your flavorful no breading air fryer chicken tenders as they come out crispy and delicious!

How to Serve No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

No breading air fryer chicken tenders are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a full meal, these tenders pair well with various sides and sauces.

With Dipping Sauces

Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory flavor of the chicken.
BBQ Sauce: Smoky and rich, BBQ sauce adds a delicious kick to your tenders.
Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch brings a cooling contrast that enhances the taste.

In Tacos

Chicken Tacos: Shred the cooked tenders and serve in soft tortillas with lettuce, cheese, and salsa for a quick meal.
Buffalo Chicken Tacos: Toss the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce and serve with blue cheese dressing for an extra spicy option.

On Salads

Chicken Caesar Salad: Slice the chicken tenders over romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing for a hearty salad.
Greek Salad: Combine chopped vegetables with sliced chicken tenders and feta cheese for a refreshing dish.

As Sliders

Mini Chicken Sliders: Place chicken tenders on small buns with pickles and your favorite sauce for fun sliders at gatherings.

How to Perfect No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

To achieve perfectly cooked no breading air fryer chicken tenders, consider these tips. They will help enhance flavor while ensuring juicy results.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken tends to have better flavor than frozen. Always opt for high-quality meat.
Preheat Your Air Fryer: Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness. Aim for about 5 minutes at 400°F (200°C).
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Leave space between tenders for optimal airflow. This helps them cook evenly.
Adjust Cooking Time Based on Size: Thicker pieces may need additional cooking time. Always check for doneness using a meat thermometer.

Best Side Dishes for No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Pairing no breading air fryer chicken tenders with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or green beans lightly seasoned make a healthy side.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a sweet contrast to savory chicken.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and freshness to your plate.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort and balance the meal nicely.
Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs is nutritious and filling.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn adds sweetness that complements the chicken’s flavor.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can soak up any sauce you use, enhancing every bite.
Garlic Bread: For those who love carbs, garlic bread is always a crowd-pleaser alongside chicken tenders.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making no breading air fryer chicken tenders, some common errors can impact the final outcome. Here are a few mistakes to avoid.

Using wet chicken: Wet chicken can prevent the seasoning from sticking properly. Always pat the chicken dry with paper towels before seasoning.
Overcrowding the air fryer: Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring space for air circulation.
Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken can lead to bland flavor. Use the seasoning mix generously on both sides for great taste.
Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping this step can affect cooking time and texture. Preheat your air fryer for even cooking results.
Ignoring cook times: Cooking too long or too short can result in tough or undercooked chicken. Follow recommended cooking times and check for doneness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
Stovetop: Reheat over medium heat in a skillet until hot, adding a splash of water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about no breading air fryer chicken tenders that you may find helpful.

How do I make No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders more flavorful?

You can add your favorite herbs and spices to the seasoning mix, like Italian seasoning or chili powder, to enhance the flavor profile.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just increase the cooking time by a few minutes and ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

What dipping sauces pair well with No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?

Popular options include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing for a delicious complement.

Are No Breading Air Fryer Chicken Tenders healthy?

Yes! They have lower calories and fat compared to traditional breaded versions, making them a healthier option for meals or snacks.

Final Thoughts

No breading air fryer chicken tenders are not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrition. This recipe is versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite spices or serve it with various dipping sauces. It’s perfect for busy weeknights!

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