Name: Air-Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Ingredients: 8 pieces frozen breaded chicken tenders; as needed olive oil spray (for coating); to taste salt; to taste pepper; 1 cup Greek yogurt; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; to taste fresh herbs (optional, such as dill or parsley)

There’s something undeniably delightful about the crispy crunch of chicken tenders, especially when they come straight from the air fryer. The convenience of frozen chicken tenders combined with the air fryer’s magical ability to produce perfectly cooked, golden results makes this dish a must-try. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty snack for game day, Air-Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders are here to satisfy your cravings while keeping things simple and delicious. Today, we’ll also explore a healthier dipping sauce option, a creamy Greek yogurt-based sauce that pairs perfectly with these crispy morsels.

Why Cooks Rave About It

Air-frying has become a game-changer in the culinary world, especially for busy home cooks. Here’s why you should consider adding Air-Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders to your meal rotation:

Quick Cooking Time: The air fryer cooks food faster than a traditional oven, making it perfect for those busy evenings.
Crispy Texture: Air-fried chicken tenders achieve that satisfying crunch without the need for deep frying.
Healthier Alternative: Using an air fryer typically requires less oil, making it a healthier option compared to traditional frying methods.
Versatile Dish: These tenders can be served as a main course, appetizer, or even in wraps and salads.
Minimal Cleanup: With just the air fryer basket to clean, meal prep becomes a breeze.

What We’re Using

Here’s what you’ll need to create your Air-Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders:

8 frozen breaded chicken tenders: Choose your favorite brand, ensuring they meet your taste preferences.
Olive oil spray: To lightly coat the tenders for extra crispiness.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning, if needed, depending on the flavor profile of the chicken tenders.
Greek yogurt: The base for our creamy dipping sauce.
Garlic powder: Adds a delightful flavor to the sauce.
Lemon juice: For a refreshing zing in the dipping sauce.
Fresh herbs (optional): Such as dill or parsley, for added freshness in the sauce.

Hardware & Gadgets

To make these crispy chicken tenders, you’ll need a few essential kitchen gadgets:

Air fryer: The star of the show! Ensure it’s large enough to fit all the tenders in a single layer for even cooking.
Cooking spray: A good-quality olive oil spray helps achieve that golden brown color.
Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring ingredients for your dipping sauce.
Bowl: To mix up your Greek yogurt sauce.

From Start to Finish: Air-Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crunch.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

Remove the frozen chicken tenders from their packaging. There is no need to thaw them; they can go straight from the freezer to the air fryer. Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray to enhance crispiness.

Step 3: Season (if needed)

Depending on your preference and the brand of chicken tenders, sprinkle a touch of salt and pepper. Most frozen breaded tenders are pre-seasoned, so this step may be optional.

Step 4: Air Fry the Tenders

Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure they cook evenly. You’re looking for a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Prepare the Dipping Sauce

While the chicken tenders are cooking, whip up your Greek yogurt dipping sauce. In a bowl, combine:

1 cup of Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Fresh herbs (optional, to taste)

Mix everything until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Serve

Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a minute. Serve them hot alongside your creamy Greek yogurt dipping sauce. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and the refreshing flavors of your sauce!

What to Use Instead

If you’re looking to switch things up or have dietary restrictions, consider these alternatives:

Vegetarian options: Try air-fryer frozen veggie nuggets or cauliflower bites for a plant-based alternative.
Gluten-free tenders: Many brands offer gluten-free frozen chicken tenders if you need to avoid gluten.
Homemade chicken tenders: For a fresh take, consider breading your chicken breast pieces and freezing them for later use.
Different dipping sauces: Experiment with other sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or a spicy sriracha mayo.

Little Things that Matter

To elevate your Air-Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders, keep these little tips in mind:

Don’t overcrowd: Make sure to cook in batches if necessary to allow for proper air circulation.
Experiment with seasonings: Add paprika, cayenne, or Italian herbs to the chicken tenders for an extra kick of flavor.
Adjust cooking time: Different brands may have varying cooking times; always refer to the package instructions.
Let them rest: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after cooking to maintain their crispiness.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

One of the best things about Air-Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders is their versatility, even as leftovers. Here are some tips for storing and reheating:

Storage: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating: To maintain their crunch, reheat in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-6 minutes.
Meal prep: These tenders can easily be incorporated into meal prep. Slice them up for salads, wraps, or serve them alongside roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Freezing: If you’ve made homemade chicken tenders, freeze them before cooking for an easy meal later on.

Quick Questions

Can I cook chicken tenders from frozen?

Yes! That’s the beauty of air-frying; you can cook frozen chicken tenders directly without thawing.

What temperature should I set the air fryer for chicken tenders?

Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for optimal crispiness and thorough cooking.

How long do I cook frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer?

Typically, frozen chicken tenders take about 10-12 minutes in the air fryer, flipping halfway through.

Can I use a different dipping sauce?

Absolutely! While the Greek yogurt sauce is a healthier option, feel free to experiment with your favorite sauces like ranch, buffalo, or honey mustard.

The Takeaway

Air-Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders are not just a quick and convenient meal; they are a delicious option that can please the entire family. With the added benefit of a healthier Greek yogurt dipping sauce, you can enjoy a classic dish while keeping your nutrition in check. The air fryer makes cooking a breeze, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate this dish from ordinary to extraordinary. So go ahead, fire up your air fryer, and treat yourself to a satisfying plate of crispy chicken tenders. You won’t regret it!