Crispy Chicken Tenders (Egg Free)
These crispy chicken tenders are not only juicy, tender, and succulent but also healthy! Unlike most homemade versions, these are dairy and egg free, and can easily be adapted to be gluten free too. Perfect for a kids' playdate tea or a weekend family dinner, everyone will love them!
Servings: 2 servings
Calories: 801kcal
Equipment
- Air Fryer optional
- Food Processor optional
Ingredients
- 400 g (14 oz) chicken mini fillets or tenders
- 125 g (4.4 oz) breadcrumbs can be substituted for gluten-free breadcrumbs
- 5 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion granules
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon each of salt & pepper
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion granules, dried parsley, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, drizzle the chicken strips with olive oil. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Take each chicken strip and dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently on both sides to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well. Set aside on a plate.
To Cook In The Air Fryer
- Preheat your air fryer (if req) to 180°C.
- Arrange the breaded chicken strips in a single layer in the air fryer basket and spray with an olive oil spray. You might need to do this in batches.
- Cook for 11-13 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
To Cook In The Oven
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (180°C fan) 390˚F
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper or use a non stick tray and arrange the breaded chicken strips in a single layer. Spray with olive oil spray.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
To Serve
- Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot, alongside your favourite dipping sauces.
Notes
See the recipe post for more detailed guidance and instructions.
Top Tips
- All Air Fryers Cook Differently: This recipe has been tested using my Ninja Food Dual Zone air fryer and the temperatures and timings are specifically tailored for this model. Please be aware that various air fryer brands may cook differently, so I would advise you to regularly check the food's cooking progress to ensure the best results.
- Turn Halfway: Don’t forget to turn the chicken tenders over halfway through cooking so they crisp up on both sides.
- Don’t Overcrowd The Basket/Baking Tray: This will lead to the food steaming instead of baking. The breadcrumbs won’t crisp up and will become soggy. Cook in batches if needed.
- Olive Oil Spray: A light spray of olive oil on the breaded chicken strips before cooking helps them to crisp up nicely.
- Use A Meat Thermometer: to check the chicken in cooked. It’s cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 74˚C / 165˚F. This is a lifesaver the kitchen and prevents not only undercooked chicken but also dry overcooked chicken too!
Nutrition
Calories: 801kcal | Carbohydrates: 48g | Protein: 51g | Fat: 44g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 28g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 128mg | Sodium: 693mg | Potassium: 918mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 4g | Vitamin A: 570IU | Vitamin C: 3mg | Calcium: 138mg | Iron: 5mg
