How to Make AirFood Recipe Chicken

Last Updated on March 23, 2024 by MOe

If you’re a lover of crisp, golden-brown chicken that practically sings when you sink your teeth into it, but you’re also searching for a more health-conscious approach, then air-fried chicken tenders might just become your go-to meal. This recipe satisfies that craving for fried goodness while using significantly less oil, making it a favorite for family dinners and weekend snacks alike.

Air-frying is a culinary revolution – It’s like the guardian angel of guilty pleasures, taking the sin out of fried foods. And when it comes to chicken tenders, it’s a marvel, keeping all the succulence locked in without the typical grease of deep-frying. Here’s how you can create this delightful dish for your next gathering.

Ingredients

Gather these items from your pantry or local store:

• 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup of buttermilk
• 1 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon of paprika
• 1 tablespoon of garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon of onion powder
• 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional for a kick!)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray for the air fryer basket
• 

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Strips

Begin by cutting your chicken breasts into even strips. The uniformity in size ensures they cook evenly and are all done at the same time. Pat them dry with paper towels; this will help the flour and seasoning stick better when you’re coating them.

Step 2: Creating the Marinade

In a bowl, mix your buttermilk with a dash of salt and pepper. Submerge your chicken strips in the buttermilk mixture and refrigerate. This process will tenderize the meat and add a lovely tang to the finished product that balances the seasoning perfectly.

Step 3: Coating the Chicken

In a separate bowl, combine the flour with the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne if you’re adding some heat. Remove the chicken strips from the buttermilk and one by one, coat them thoroughly in the seasoned flour.

Step 4: Preparing the Air Fryer

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it’s warming up, you can prepare the basket. Spray the basket with cooking oil to prevent sticking and place the coated chicken strips in a single layer.

Step 5: Cooking the Chicken Tenders

Air-fry the tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Serving Your Air-Fried Chicken Tenders

Once your chicken tenders are perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve them up. Transfer them to a serving platter and garnish with a little sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color if you like. These tenders are delightful on their own or dipped in your favorite sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy barbecue sauce. Serve alongside a fresh salad, crispy fries, or a side of steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

No matter how you serve them, air-fried chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. Their crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior make them a satisfying treat that’s hard to resist. Plus, by air-frying instead of deep-frying, you’re choosing a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. Gather your family and friends around the table and enjoy the shared pleasure of a delicious, home-cooked meal. Happy air-frying!

Tips and Variations

Double Dipping for Extra Crunch: If you want an even crispier coating, consider dunking your coated strips back into the buttermilk and flour mixture a second time before air frying.

Spice It Up with Seasoning Combos: Don’t be shy to experiment with different seasoning blends – perhaps some lemon pepper for a fresh bite or a little Italian seasoning for an herbaceous flair.

Saucy Sidekicks: Serve your tenders with an array of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or a zesty barbecue sauce.

Serving Suggestions: These tenders are versatile and can be paired with anything from a simple salad to a side of your favorite mac and cheese.

Crafting a meal that brings smiles and satisfaction doesn’t have to be complicated, and with these air-fried chicken tenders, you’re sure to win the hearts of both the young and the young at heart. Remember, the key to perfect tenders is not just in the ingredients or the cooking method, but in the love and care you put into preparing them. From selecting the freshest chicken to mixing the perfect blend of spices, every step is a step towards a delightful dining experience. And when you gather around the table, sharing these golden, crispy tenders, you’re not just sharing food, but moments of joy, laughter, and connection. So, here’s to many more meals that bring us together, and to the magic that happens when we choose to make and share wholesome, delicious food. Enjoy your air-frying adventure, cherish the process, and relish in the beautiful moments created around your table. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information and Serving Sizes

For those who are mindful of their dietary intake, here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values per serving of these air-fried chicken tenders. Keep in mind, these figures are an estimate and can vary based on the size of your servings and any additional seasonings or dipping sauces you may choose to enjoy with your meal.

• Serving Size: Roughly 3-4 chicken tenders (depending on their size)
• Calories: Approximately 260 calories per serving
• Protein: About 26 grams
• Fat: Around 7 grams (with less than 2 grams of saturated fat)
• Carbohydrates: Approximately 18 grams (this includes the flour coating; deduct for lower carb options)
• Sodium: Roughly 430 mg (varies based on the amount of salt used in seasoning and buttermilk)

These airfood recipe chicken tenders offer a wonderful balance of protein and flavor while keeping the fat content significantly lower than traditional fried chicken options. Perfect for a satisfying meal that doesn’t weigh you down, they provide a delightful way to enjoy a favorite without compromising your health goals. Remember, pairing these tenders with sides like fresh vegetables or a light salad can further enhance your meal’s nutritional profile, making it a balanced and enjoyable dining experience. Enjoy your delicious, crispy tenders with peace of mind knowing you’re making a health-conscious choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

I remember the first time I decided to try making these air-fried chicken tenders. It was a chilly evening, and I was looking for a way to bring a little warmth and joy into our family dinner. My kitchen was filled with the sounds of laughter and the clinking of measuring spoons as my children eagerly volunteered to help with the preparation. We danced around the kitchen to our favorite songs, each step of the recipe becoming a step in our impromptu dance. The kids took turns dipping the chicken into the buttermilk and then into the flour mixture, each piece coated with not just the seasoning, but also with a sprinkle of our shared giggles and stories.

When the tenders were finally done, and we sat down to enjoy them, the room was filled with a sense of accomplishment and togetherness. The tenders were indeed crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, but what made them truly special was the love and laughter that went into making them. That night, we didn’t just share a meal; we shared moments that would become cherished memories, reminding us that it’s the simple things in life, like cooking together, that truly nourish the soul.