Crispy & Juicy Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders: Your Ultimate Weeknight Meal Solution!
The school year is in full swing, and weeknight dinners often feel like a race against the clock. If you’re searching for a meal that effortlessly delights both kids and adults, look no further than these incredible Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders. This recipe is a true game-changer, promising a flavorful, crowd-pleasing dinner in under 20 minutes with just four simple ingredients! Pair it with a jar of refreshing Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad, and your meal prep stress instantly disappears.
This recipe is designed for maximum convenience and minimum fuss. It comes together quickly, making it ideal for those busy evenings when time is precious. Plus, it’s easily adaptable for picky eaters – you can even make a plain batch for those who prefer their chicken without sauce! Consider making a double batch; these tenders are fantastic for meal prepping. Freeze the extra portions, and you’ll have a ready-to-go lunch option for school or work. Kids adore these chicken tenders, whether eaten on their own, tucked into a soft bun as a sandwich, or sliced over a salad.
Imagine coming home after a long day, and dinner is almost ready. With this recipe, you can easily prep the breaded chicken ahead of time, storing it in the fridge. When hunger strikes, simply pop them into your air fryer, and a delicious, hot meal will be on the table in minutes. It’s the perfect solution for modern families.
If you’ve fallen in love with your air fryer as much as we have, you absolutely must explore its full potential! Beyond these fantastic BBQ chicken tenders, the air fryer can transform a myriad of dishes. For dessert, try these Air Fryer Apple Pie Eggrolls – crispy, warm, and utterly delightful. For a savory snack or appetizer, Air Fryer Toasted Ravioli offers that satisfying crunch without excessive oil. And for a unique, wholesome main course, this Air Fryer Taco Salad Bowl recipe is a healthy and flavorful choice. The air fryer truly is a versatile kitchen powerhouse!
This post is sponsored by Paisley Farm Foods, but my genuine love for their products and my opinions are entirely my own!
Why Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders Will Become Your New Family Favorite
These Air Fryer Barbecue Chicken Tenders are more than just a meal; they’re a convenient solution for modern households. Crafted with just four core ingredients, they’re incredibly quick and easy to prepare, quickly becoming a staple in my recipe rotation and a real family favorite. The crispy exterior combined with a juicy, tender interior makes them irresistible. I often make a double batch, intentionally freezing the leftovers. This simple trick provides a fantastic ready-to-go option for school lunchboxes or quick weekday meals, effectively solving the perennial “what’s for lunch?” dilemma and making life significantly easier. It’s a versatile dish that caters to varied tastes and schedules.
Unlock the Potential: What Exactly is an Air Fryer?
An air fryer is a remarkably efficient small kitchen appliance designed to circulate hot air around food, mimicking the results of deep frying with a fraction of the oil. Unlike traditional deep fryers that submerge food in oil, an air fryer uses convection to create a crispy, golden-brown crust while keeping the inside tender and moist. This process, known as the Maillard reaction, is what gives foods their delicious browned flavor and texture. It’s incredibly handy for dishes like these BBQ chicken tenders, ensuring they achieve that perfect crispy coating and succulent center without the greasy mess. For busy weeknights, the air fryer is an absolute lifesaver, allowing you to get wholesome, delicious meals on the table with unparalleled speed and convenience. Its compact size and ease of cleaning further contribute to its appeal, making it a must-have appliance for any home cook looking to simplify their cooking process while maintaining high standards of taste and texture.
Mastering the Art: Time and Temperature for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
When cooking any poultry, especially chicken tenders like those in this delightful BBQ chicken recipe, ensuring proper cooking is paramount for food safety. Undercooked chicken can pose health risks, so it’s crucial to cook it thoroughly until it reaches a safe internal temperature.
For optimal results, we recommend cooking the chicken strips for an initial 11-12 minutes at 380 degrees Fahrenheit, followed by the BBQ sauce application. The general guideline for air frying breaded chicken tenders is typically around 15-20 minutes in total, but this can vary based on several factors. The thickness of your chicken strips is the most significant variable; thicker cuts will naturally require more cooking time. Additionally, different air fryer models can have varying wattages and airflow efficiencies, meaning your specific appliance might cook faster or slower than others. To eliminate any guesswork and guarantee your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat, always use a reliable meat thermometer. The internal temperature of chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) at its thickest part. This foolproof method ensures a juicy, tender result every time, providing peace of mind along with a delicious meal.
The Perfect Pairing: Introducing Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad
My friends at Paisley Farm Foods share my philosophy: bringing fantastic-tasting, homecooked meals to your table without the usual fuss. Their commitment to quality means you can feel great about feeding your family their products.
While this Air Fryer BBQ Chicken recipe comes together in a flash, so does a delicious and incredibly nutritious side dish: Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad! It’s the epitome of convenience – simply open a jar, pour it into a bowl, and serve. This vibrant blend of green, kidney, garbanzo, pinto, and wax beans, accented with freshly diced onions and red peppers, offers a sweet pickled taste straight from the jar. It’s a genuine lifesaver on those hectic weeknights when you’re striving to provide a healthy, homemade meal in a limited amount of time. Beyond being an effortless side, this versatile salad is low-calorie, dairy-free, gluten-free, and packed with plant-based protein, thanks in part to chickpeas. It’s an easy way to add fiber and essential nutrients to any meal, transforming a quick dinner into a well-rounded feast.
Essential Ingredients for Your BBQ Chicken Strips
Crafting these irresistible BBQ Chicken Strips requires just a handful of straightforward ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and some tips for each:
- Chicken Breasts: For this recipe, I typically use about 3 pounds of chicken breasts. You have a couple of options here: you can purchase whole chicken breasts and slice them into uniform strips yourself, or save time by opting for pre-cut chicken tenderloins or strips. Aim for pieces of similar thickness to ensure even cooking.
- Egg: A single beaten egg serves as the crucial binder, helping the breadcrumbs adhere perfectly to the chicken. Any standard chicken egg will work. If you find you’re running low on egg wash or have a large batch of chicken, a little splash of water or milk can help extend it. For those with egg allergies or dietary preferences, a thin coating of buttermilk or even a flax egg mixture can often serve as a suitable alternative.
- Seasoned Breadcrumbs: These are a fantastic shortcut for adding a layer of flavor and crispiness. You can easily buy them pre-seasoned from the grocery store. Alternatively, unleash your inner chef and make your own! Stale bread can be processed into fine crumbs, then mixed with your favorite dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper. This allows for customization of flavor. If using plain bread crumbs, you’ll definitely want to add your own blend of spices to elevate the taste. Panko breadcrumbs are also a great choice for an extra crispy texture. Having a box of seasoned breadcrumbs on standby in your pantry is always a smart move for quick meals.
- BBQ Sauce: To truly simplify your weeknight cooking, I highly recommend using your favorite bottled BBQ sauce. There’s a vast array of flavors available, from sweet and smoky to tangy or spicy, so choose one that your family loves. However, if you have a little extra time and prefer the rich depth of homemade flavors, my Homemade Barbecue Sauce recipe is absolutely fantastic and adds a unique touch that store-bought simply can’t replicate.
How to Make Irresistible Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Breasts
For precise ingredient measurements, please refer to the comprehensive recipe card located at the end of this article.
Step One: Prepare the Chicken
If you’re starting with whole chicken breasts, carefully cut them into uniform strips, roughly 1-inch thick. Aim for consistent sizing to ensure they cook evenly. If you wisely opted for pre-cut chicken tenders, you get to skip this step entirely – a true time-saver!
Step Two: Bread the Chicken
In one shallow bowl, whisk your egg until well beaten. In another, spread out your seasoned breadcrumbs. Dip each chicken strip thoroughly into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off, then press it firmly into the seasoned breadcrumbs. Make sure each tender is generously coated on all sides for maximum crispiness and flavor.
Step Three: Prepare Your Air Fryer
Lightly spray the basket of your air fryer with a non-stick cooking spray. This prevents sticking and helps ensure an even, golden-brown crust.
Step Four: Air Fry the Tenders
Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring not to overcrowd them. Overcrowding can lead to steaming rather than frying, hindering that desired crispiness. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with a bit more non-stick spray. Set your air fryer to 380 degrees Fahrenheit (195 degrees Celsius) and cook for approximately 11 minutes. Remember that air fryer cooking times can vary by model, so this is a general guideline. Halfway through cooking (around the 5-6 minute mark), you may want to flip the tenders to ensure even browning. Always check that the breading is a beautiful golden brown and, crucially, that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches a safe 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) when tested with a meat thermometer.
Step Five: Glaze and Finish
Once the chicken tenders are cooked through and golden, open the air fryer basket. Brush the tops of the chicken tenders generously with your chosen BBQ sauce. Air fry for another 2 minutes. Then, flip each tender, brush the other side with BBQ sauce, and air fry for an additional 2-3 minutes. This final step allows the BBQ sauce to caramelize beautifully, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze.
Serve your perfectly glazed BBQ chicken tenders immediately, with extra BBQ sauce on the side for dipping!
Oven Method: A Great Alternative for BBQ Chicken Tenders
No air fryer? No problem! You can still enjoy these delicious BBQ chicken tenders by baking them in a conventional oven. Simply preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Place the breaded chicken strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Once cooked, remove from the oven, brush both sides with BBQ sauce, and return to the oven for another 5 minutes to allow the sauce to caramelize. Serve with any remaining BBQ sauce for dipping.
Love It? Pin It for Later!
If you’re already envisioning these amazing BBQ chicken tenders on your dinner table, don’t let this recipe slip away! Be sure to save it to your favorite Pinterest recipe board so you can easily find it whenever those weeknight dinner cravings hit.
Crafting Your Own BBQ Sauce for Chicken Tenders
While this recipe champions the convenience of bottled BBQ sauce for speedy weeknight meals, there’s something uniquely satisfying about homemade. If you’re inspired to create your own signature sauce, you can easily follow this barbecue sauce recipe. It’s incredibly rewarding and allows you to customize the flavors to your exact preference – whether you like it sweeter, tangier, smokier, or with a spicy kick!
Frequently Asked Questions About Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders
Cooking with an air fryer can sometimes raise questions, especially when perfecting a new recipe. Here are answers to some common inquiries about making BBQ Chicken in your air fryer:
How do you make BBQ Chicken in the Air Fryer?
Making BBQ chicken in the air fryer is wonderfully simple! You start by coating chicken strips in a beaten egg and then pressing them into seasoned breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior. These breaded strips are then air-fried until cooked through and golden. For the delicious BBQ flavor, you’ll brush them with your favorite BBQ sauce during the final few minutes of cooking, allowing the sauce to caramelize beautifully.
Do you put BBQ sauce on chicken before or after you cook it?
For this recipe, the BBQ sauce is applied towards the end of the cooking process. You cook the breaded chicken strips plain for most of the time to ensure they get crispy. Once they are almost fully cooked and golden brown, you’ll brush on the BBQ sauce and air fry them for just a few more minutes. This method prevents the sauce from burning and helps it caramelize perfectly. I also highly recommend serving additional BBQ sauce on the side for dipping, allowing everyone to add as much flavor as they desire.
Can you put raw chicken in an air fryer?
Absolutely, yes! The air fryer is perfectly capable of cooking raw chicken to safe internal temperatures. In fact, many air fryer recipes, including this one, begin with raw chicken. Just ensure you follow recommended cooking times and always verify doneness with a meat thermometer.
Can I use BBQ sauce in my air fryer?
Yes, you can and should use BBQ sauce in your air fryer for this recipe! The key is to apply it correctly. Instead of pouring a large amount of sauce directly into the air fryer basket, which could create a mess and burn, use a silicone pastry brush to apply the sauce evenly onto the chicken strips. This ensures good coverage and allows the sauce to caramelize nicely without causing issues with your appliance.
Can I make these chicken tenders in the oven?
Yes, baked BBQ chicken tenders are an excellent alternative if you don’t have an air fryer or prefer oven cooking. To prepare them in the oven: arrange the breaded chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F. Then, brush both sides of the chicken with BBQ sauce and bake for an additional 5 minutes to get that delicious caramelized glaze. Serve with extra BBQ sauce for dipping.
How should I store and reheat leftover BBQ chicken tenders?
Cooked BBQ chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can use your air fryer again at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. The oven also works well at the same temperature for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make them soggy.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
While fresh chicken is always recommended for the best texture and cooking consistency, you can use frozen chicken tenders. However, you’ll need to thaw them completely before breading. If you try to bread them from frozen, the egg and breadcrumbs won’t adhere properly. Alternatively, you can air fry plain frozen tenders first until mostly cooked, then bread and proceed with the recipe, though results may vary.
Creative Substitutions and Variations for Air Fryer Barbecue Chicken Tenders
This Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing for easy substitutions and variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make it your own!
- Chicken Cuts: While chicken breasts are specified, if your family prefers a richer flavor and even juicier results, feel free to substitute them with chicken thighs. Cut them into similar-sized strips for even cooking. You could also use chicken tenderloins directly, saving you a cutting step.
- Breadcrumb Alternatives: If you can’t find seasoned breadcrumbs, making your own from plain ones is a breeze. Add your favorite spices like garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, dried herbs (oregano, basil), salt, and pepper. For an extra-crispy bite, try using Panko breadcrumbs. If you have picky eaters, you could even prepare a plain batch without extra seasoning. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs, almond flour, or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb alternative.
- Spice It Up or Down: Customizing your own breadcrumbs gives you the perfect opportunity to adjust the heat. For a spicier kick, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or smoked paprika. If you prefer milder flavors, stick to classic Italian herbs.
- BBQ Sauce Flavors: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of BBQ sauce! Experiment with different regional styles – a smoky Texas BBQ, a tangy Carolina mustard sauce, a sweet Kansas City sauce, or even a spicy Korean gochujang-based sauce. You could also try other sauces like buffalo, honey mustard, or a sweet and sour glaze for a completely different flavor profile.
- Vegetarian Option: For the vegetarians at your table, this recipe can easily be adapted using firm or extra-firm tofu. Press the tofu to remove excess water, then cut it into strips. Follow the same breading and air frying instructions. Note that cooking times for tofu may differ; look for golden brown and firm texture. Tempeh can also be used similarly.
Pro Tips & Tricks for Making Perfect BBQ Chicken Breast in the Air Fryer
Achieving consistently perfect Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders is simple with these expert tips:
- Uniform Size Matters: Ensure your chicken breast strips are cut to a similar size and thickness. This guarantees that all pieces cook at the same rate, preventing some from being undercooked or overcooked.
- Invest in a Meat Thermometer: This is arguably the most crucial tool for cooking poultry safely and perfectly. A reliable meat thermometer ensures the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), confirming it’s safe to eat while preventing it from drying out. It’s a small investment that yields big peace of mind.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fryers work by circulating hot air. If you cram too many chicken tenders into the basket, the air won’t circulate effectively, leading to steamed rather than crispy chicken. Cook in batches if necessary, ensuring there’s space around each piece.
- Preheat Your Air Fryer: Just like a conventional oven, preheating your air fryer for 3-5 minutes allows it to reach the desired temperature before you add the food. This helps achieve that immediate crisp crust and consistent cooking from the start.
- Pat Chicken Dry: Before coating, pat the chicken strips thoroughly dry with paper towels. Excess moisture on the chicken can prevent the breading from sticking properly and can also make the tenders steam instead of crisp up.
- Oil Spray for Extra Crispness: Lightly spraying the breaded chicken tenders with a little oil (olive, avocado, or coconut oil spray) before air frying and flipping helps achieve an even crispier, golden-brown crust.
- Meal Prep Gold: These cooked chicken tenders are fantastic for meal prep. They will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days, or you can freeze them for up to a few months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer for a quick meal.
Discover the Many Reasons to Love Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad
Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad is more than just a convenient side dish; it’s a nutritional powerhouse and a flavorful addition to any meal. This ready-to-serve salad is a fantastic option for those seeking healthy, delicious, and easy-to-prepare foods. It’s naturally low in calories, making it a great choice for mindful eating, and is completely dairy-free and gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs.
What truly makes it stand out is its robust plant-based protein content, largely thanks to the inclusion of chickpeas (garbanzo beans), one of the top sources of plant-based protein. The salad features a harmonious blend of five different beans: green, kidney, garbanzo, pinto, and wax beans, all beautifully accented with crisp, freshly diced onions and vibrant red peppers. This combination delivers a unique sweet pickled taste straight from the jar, offering a refreshing and tangy counterpoint to richer main courses.
Beyond serving as a simple side, Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad is incredibly versatile. It’s a fantastic additive to heartier dishes like this Five Bean Ham & Rice Salad or my rich and creamy Mexican Hot Taco Dip! It truly makes the easiest side dish around, pairing perfectly with dishes such as Air Fryer Chicken Fried Steak and Spicy Baked Chicken Tenders!
You also have to try their Asian Bean Salad! It provides a wonderful, zesty side dish for meals with an Asian flair, bringing a fresh and tangy element that complements richer flavors.
Pair the Asian Bean Salad with delicious dishes like these Sticky Asian Meatballs,
Or this super easy Slow Cooker Chicken Teriyaki!
For a truly effortless dinner experience, I recently tossed some crispy tater tots into the air fryer, opened a jar of Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad, and served up these delightful BBQ Chicken Tenders in record time! It’s proof that wholesome, delicious meals don’t have to be complicated.
Discover All My Delicious Paisley Farm Recipes Here!
You can easily find delicious Paisley Farm Five Bean Salad at major retailers like Costco, Sam’s Club, Kroger Stores, Sprouts, Fresh Market, and many other fine stores. Explore their full range of fabulous products by visiting their website. Stay connected with Paisley Farm on their social media channels for year-round recipe inspiration and updates: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest.
These Breaded Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders are not just delicious; they are a true crowd-pleaser that will earn you rave reviews! Expect requests for seconds and enjoy this recipe as your new go-to meal on even the busiest weeknights. Happy cooking!
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Print Recipe
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders
Get dinner on the table in 15 minutes with this Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders recipe! Flavorful breaded chicken with caramelized BBQ Sauce.
5 mins
11 mins
16 mins
Equipment
- 12-Piece Black Sharp Knife Set with Covers, Cutting Board and Sharpener
- Hamilton Beach Air Fryer Oven Digital and Programmable, Nonstick (35050), 2.5 Liters, Black
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts about 3 pounds combined
- 1 egg beaten
- 1 cup seasoned bread crumbs
- 1 cup BBQ Sauce
Instructions
- Cut chicken breasts into strips.
- Dip the chicken strips into the beaten egg and then press them into the seasoned bread crumbs, taking care to coat them really well.
- Spray the basket of your air fryer with non-stick cooking spray.
- Place the breaded chicken tenders in the basket and spray the tops of them lightly with non-stick spray.
- Set the air fryer to 380 degrees F. and cook the chicken tenders for approximately 11 minutes. Air fryers will differ. Make sure the breading is golden brown and the internal temperature of the chicken is 165 degrees F when checked with a meat thermometer.
- Brush the tops of the chicken tenders with BBQ sauce. Air fry for another 2 minutes. Flip them and brush with BBQ sauce and air fry them another 2-3 minutes until the BBQ sauce is caramelized on the outside of the chicken.
- Serve with remaining BBQ sauce for dipping.