Tasty Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe
If you’re in the mood for a delightful yet simple dish that brings flavor and fun to any gathering, you’ve come to the right place. These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders are not only quick to prepare but also offer a healthier twist on a classic favorite. Imagine biting into juicy, tender chicken coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, all cooked in the air fryer with minimal oil. Perfect for game day snacks, family dinners, or meal prep, this dish is sure to satisfy.
Why Choose the Air Fryer for Chicken Tenders?
Air fryers have revolutionized cooking, making it effortless to prepare crispy meals without the guilt of deep frying. By using hot air circulation, air fryers create a crunch that’s similar to traditional frying but with significantly less oil. In this recipe, the air fryer ensures that your chicken tenders remain moist on the inside while developing an irresistible crispy outer layer. Not only does this method cut down on fat, but it also dramatically reduces cooking time, making it a go-to option for busy individuals.
Gather Your Ingredients
To whip up these tasty chicken tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Chicken tenders: 1 ½ pounds
- Brown sugar: 2 teaspoons
- Paprika: 2 teaspoons
- Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
- Chile powder: ½ teaspoon
- Garlic powder: ½ teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper: ¼ teaspoon (adjust to spice preference)
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Ranch dressing: For dipping
Having these ingredients ready is the first step to deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
-
Preheat the air fryer
Begin by setting your air fryer to 400°F. This high temperature is key to achieving that coveted crispiness. -
Mix the BBQ seasonings
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together brown sugar, paprika, baking powder, chile powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, and salt. This flavorful blend will coat your chicken to perfection. -
Incorporate the olive oil
Add the olive oil to the seasoning mixture. Stir until everything is well combined. The oil will help the spices stick to the chicken and enhance the flavors. -
Coat the chicken tenders
Toss the chicken tenders into the bowl with the seasoning mix. Gently turn the tenders to ensure they are evenly coated in the spice blend. -
Arrange in the air fryer basket
Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your fryer, you may need to do this in batches. -
Air fry for crispy goodness
Cook the chicken tenders for 9 to 12 minutes. Cooking times may vary, so make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the juices are clear. - Serve hot with ranch dipping sauce
Once cooked, serve the tenders hot with a side of ranch dressing for an extra flavor burst.
Perfect for Any Occasion
These Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders make a fantastic finger food for parties or potlucks. Beyond serving them as appetizers, you can skillfully repurpose leftovers. Enjoy them in salads, wraps, or even alongside some crispy French fries for a quick dinner option. If you’re hosting a game day gathering, consider adding a variety of dipping sauces like spicy aioli or barbecue for an elevated experience.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! These tenders store well in the fridge for several days. To reheat and retain their crispy texture, place them back in the air fryer for 3 to 5 minutes. Alternatively, you can bake them in a 350°F oven for about 5 to 7 minutes or microwave them for a quick solution.
Get ready to enjoy sweet, smoky, and cannily delicious chicken tenders that will wow your taste buds and impress your friends and family with minimal fuss. Happy cooking!
