As the golden-brown chicken tenders emerge from the air fryer, the aroma of savory garlic and smoked paprika fills the kitchen, beckoning everyone to the table. These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are not only low-carb and gluten-free but also incredibly crispy and satisfying, making them the perfect addition to any meal. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a dish that delights the senses while being friendly to your dietary needs.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a healthy yet indulgent snack or dinner option. Whether you’re hosting game night, feeding picky eaters, or preparing a light weeknight meal, these tenders are versatile and crowd-pleasing. Feel free to make them ahead of time; they store well for easy reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy exterior with a tender interior, thanks to the air fryer.
- Quick cooking time ensures you can enjoy them in under half an hour.
- Simple preparation with minimal mess and cleanup involved.
- Flavor-packed coating that’s gluten-free and low in carbs.
What You’ll Need
Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious tenders:
For the Chicken Tenders
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup blanched almond flour
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 12 chicken tenders – about 1.5 lbs
- Olive oil cooking spray
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup hot sauce
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Note: Use coconut flour as a low-carb alternative to almond flour if desired.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken tenders can be replaced with chicken breasts.
- Hot sauce can be swapped for BBQ sauce for a different flavor.
- Honey can be substituted with agave syrup for a vegan option.
- Almond flour may be exchanged with crushed pork rinds for extra crunch.
How to Make It
Follow these simple steps for perfectly cooked chicken tenders.
Crack eggs
Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and season them with salt and pepper. This will help the almond flour coating stick to the chicken tenders.
Prepare the coating
In a separate shallow bowl, combine the almond flour with the garlic powder, parsley, paprika, and some more salt and pepper. Mix until well blended.
Coat the chicken
Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then into the almond flour mixture, ensuring they are well coated. Set aside on a clean plate until all tenders are coated.
Preheat air fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F and spray the basket with olive oil spray. Lay a single layer of chicken tenders in the basket, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded.
Cook the chicken
Close the air fryer and cook for 7 minutes. Then, flip the chicken tenders over, spray the other side with more olive oil spray, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, until they are crispy and cooked through. Cook in batches if necessary.
Prepare the sauce
Melt the butter in a pot over medium heat on the stovetop. Once melted, add the hot sauce, honey, tomato paste, and salt and pepper. Whisk together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes on low heat, allowing flavors to meld.
Serve and enjoy
Once all of the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a platter or clean plate and top with the prepared sauce. Serve warm and enjoy immediately!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: Yes, ideal for meal prep or leftovers.
Reheat: Air fry for 3-5 minutes at 350°F until heated through.
Tips for Best Results
- Allow the chicken to come to room temperature for even cooking.
- For extra crunch, add a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the coating.
- Don’t skip the olive oil spray as it helps achieve that crispy texture.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a fresh garden salad for a light meal.
- Serve alongside a selection of dipping sauces for variety.
- Great as an appetizer for game day or parties.
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