Quick Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders are perfectly crispy on the outside while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Prepare and cook with a homemade blackened seasoning in less than 15 minutes
This recipe is bringing it with the big bold flavors. Think of Popeye's blackened chicken tenders but lighter on the calories, no pan frying or oil splatter, and just as juicy and delicious. It will even satisfy the picky eaters at the table!
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Why These Are A Hit
- The blackened seasoning only uses 6 basic spices and doesn't include red pepper flake, cayenne pepper, or black pepper. As a result, the chicken tenderloins are bold in flavor but mild in spice making them a great kid-friendly meal.
- Minimal time in the kitchen and minimal dirty dishes! You'll need a few minutes to prep the chicken and only 8 minutes to air fry. They're ideal for busy weeknights.
- They're extremely versatile. Serve with your favorite dip or serve as Blackened Chicken Tacos and top with Fresh Guacamole instead. You could even shred the tenders and serve them in a Sandwich with Smoked Gouda.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Chicken Tenders: I recommend buying tenderloins already cut as the most convenient option. You can also use chicken breasts and slice into strips. If you're doing this make sure the strips are equal in size to avoid over/under cooking certain pieces.
Oil: Since we're air frying, you don't need a lot. Choose a high quality flavorful oil for the best results like extra virgin olive oil, avocado, or grapeseed oil.
Seasonings: I prefer to use seasoned salt for added flavor. I also enjoy using ancho chili powder instead of regular because it's slightly spicier and has a smokier, rich, flavor profile that compliments the other seasonings nicely.
See the recipe card for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Pro Tips
Remove the tendon from the tenderloin before seasoning. Place a tendon between the fork prongs and use paper towel to grab and pull it out. You don't want to bite into this chewy piece. For a step by step check out this 15 second tutorial.
Add 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, red pepper flake or 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the blackened seasoning to bring the heat.
How They're Made (Step By Step)
Step 1: In a small bowl combine paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. In a separate bowl mix the chicken with oil until well combined. Add blackened seasoning and coat the tenders on all sides.
Step 2: Spray the tray with cooking spray and add the seasoned chicken. Air fry at 380 degrees for 8 minutes.
Step 3: Flip the chicken tenders at the 4 minute mark. Then place the basket back into the air fryer and continue cooking for the remaining 4 minutes.
Step 4: When the chicken is done, let cool for a couple minutes to allow the crispy exterior to form. Then, serve with your favorite condiment.
Frequently Asked Questions
In the cooler months I've been enjoying this with Spring Onion Potato Salad and Pasta e Piselli. In the warmer months, this pairs well with Beet and Cucumber Salad, or Yellow Mediterranean Rice.
An easy way to check is by cutting into the thickest piece. You should see white meat (no pink), and clear juices should run from the middle. If you don't like cutting into your food before it's served, use a thermometer and make sure the internal temperature is 165 degrees.
Yes. They're low carb high protein making them perfect for the keto diet. They're also gluten free, Paleo, and Whole30 approved.
For short term storage, keep in the fridge for 3-4 days. For long term storage, freeze for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Reheat in the air fryer at 350 for 3-5 minutes or up to 12 minutes from frozen.
More Easy Air Fried Dinners
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Quick Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ancho chili powder or regular chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- cooking spray
Instructions
- In a small bowl combine paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. In a separate bowl mix the chicken tenders with oil until well combined. Add blackened seasoning and coat the tenders on all sides.
- Spray the air fryer tray with cooking spray and add the seasoned chicken tenders. Air fry at 380 degrees for 8 minutes.
- Flip the chicken tenders at the 4 minute mark. Then place the air fryer basket back into the air fryer and continue cooking for the remaining 4 minutes.
- When the chicken is done, let cool for a couple minutes to allow the crispy exterior to form. Then, serve with your favorite condiment.
These Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders are super easy to make, perfectly crispy, and juicy. The homemade seasoning is amazing, and my son loves it. This 15 minute meal is definitely a new family favorite.