The video linked above from Preppy Kitchen is a fantastic visual guide for mastering the timing.
Ingredients (Serves 4 people / Yields 4 main portions)
- The Crispy Chicken Tenders:
- 2 lbs (900g) Chicken Tenders (or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 2 cups Panko Breadcrumbs (for maximum crunch)
- 2 large Eggs (beaten)
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 1/2 tsp Salt
- 3/4 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
- Olive Oil cooking spray/mister
- The Air Fryer Fries:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) Frozen French Fries (or fresh Russet potatoes cut into 1/4-inch fries)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (if using fresh potatoes)
- 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder & Salt (to taste)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Step 1: Dry and season the chicken Pat the chicken tenders completely dry with paper towels. (Removing surface moisture helps the egg egg-wash and breadcrumbs stick tight). Season both sides evenly with 1 1/2 tsp salt and 3/4 tsp black pepper.
- Step 2: Set up the dredging stations Crack two eggs into a shallow dish and beat lightly with a fork. In a second shallow dish, combine the 2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs, 1 tsp paprika, and 1 tsp garlic powder, stirring until mixed evenly.
- Step 3: Dredge the chicken Working with one or two tenders at a time, dip each piece into the egg mixture (letting excess drip off), then press firmly into the seasoned Panko breadcrumbs until completely coated on all sides. Transfer to a lined plate.
- Step 4: Air fry the fries first Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Spray the basket lightly with oil, toss in your french fries, and air fry for 12 to 15 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through until golden and crispy. Remove and keep warm.
- Step 5: Air fry the chicken tenders Re-spray the preheated 400°F basket. Lightly spray one side of the breaded chicken tenders with olive oil spray and place them sprayed-side down in the basket in a single layer (don't crowd them). Lightly mist the tops with oil. Air fry for 6 minutes, flip each tender over, mist again, and bake for another 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
- Step 6: Plate and serve Serve the hot, crunchy chicken tenders alongside the crispy fries with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce!
Kitchen Gadgets & Pro Tips
- Even Crispiness with PFAS-Free Ceramic Cooking: Crowding chicken tenders or fries in a tiny basket causes them to steam instead of crisp up. A Air Fryer with PFAS-Free Ceramic Coating provides plenty of surface area for rapid air circulation, letting you cook a full family portion evenly with high-speed air frying and easy, non-toxic cleanup.
- Dual-Function Precision Oil Control: Aerosol cooking sprays can damage the non-stick coating of your air fryer basket over time. A Oil Sprayer & Dispenser Bottle gives you total control—press quickly for a fine, even mist over Panko breadcrumbs to boost browning, or pour a steady stream when dressing side salads or pan-searing.
- Instant Temperature & Doneness Accuracy: Overcooking chicken tenders turns them rubbery and dry. Using a waterproof Digital Instant-Read Meat Thermometer lets you check that the thickest part reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) in under 2 seconds without letting all the heat out of your air fryer.