Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading: Ready in 15 Minutes

Name: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4-6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 lbs Chicken Tenders; 1 tbsp Avocado Oil; 1.5 tbsp Smoked Paprika; 1.5 tbsp Garlic Powder; 1.5 tbsp Onion Powder; 1 tbsp Dried Parsley; ½ tbsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning; ½ tsp Salt (Optional); ¼ - ½ tsp Cayenne Pepper or Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

by Paula jannet

5 de May de 2025

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Ever craved perfectly juicy, incredibly flavorful chicken tenders that are actually healthy and ridiculously easy to make? Forget the heavy breading and deep-frying! This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading recipe, perfected over countless tests in my kitchen, delivers that exact experience. We’re talking restaurant-quality tenderness and taste, achieved in your air fryer in just 15 minutes. The secret blend of spices creates a savory crust without any flour or breadcrumbs, making these healthy chicken strips your new weeknight obsession. Prepare to be amazed by how simple and satisfying these crispy chicken tenders (without the breading!) truly are.

I’ve spent years perfecting the balance of seasonings and the precise air frying technique to ensure these no breading chicken tenders are consistently moist on the inside with a delightfully seasoned exterior. The magic? It lies in the high heat circulation of the air fryer combined with a bold spice mix featuring smoked paprika and lemon pepper. Trust me, once you try this easy air fryer chicken tenders without breading recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought or traditionally fried versions again!

Recipe Overview

⏱️ Total time: 15 minutes
🔪 Prep time: 5 minutes
🍳 Cook time: 10 minutes
👥 Servings: 4-6 people (approx. ½ lb per person)
🔥 Difficulty: Easy
💰 Cost: Budget-friendly

Golden, juicy homemade Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading, Ready in 15 Minutes | Recipe by Louisa Jannet

What Our Readers Are Saying

I’ve made these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading 5 times now and they are ALWAYS a hit! My picky kids devour them. Louisa’s instructions for getting them crispy without breading are spot-on. Truly takes just 15 mins!”
— Jessica M., Chicago

Seriously the best air fryer chicken tenders I’ve ever made! The spice blend is perfect – smoky, savory, with a hint of citrus. So much healthier and faster than other methods. A weekly staple in our house now.”
— David R., Austin

Why you’ll love this recipe
Ingredients you’ll need
Step-by-step instructions
Pro tips for best results
Best ways to serve
Nutritional information
Storage and leftovers
Frequently asked questions

Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading

✅ Quick and Effortless – Seriously, the best way to make air fryer chicken tenders at home! From prep to plate in just 15 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights when you need a fast, satisfying meal. These oven-free chicken tenders are a game-changer.

✅ Healthy & Delicious – Packed with protein and flavor, but without the heavy breading or excess oil. These healthy chicken strips fit easily into low-carb, keto, paleo, and gluten-free lifestyles. You control the ingredients!

✅ Family-Approved Flavor – The savory spice blend is incredibly flavorful without being spicy (unless you want it to be!). Even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds of this easy air fryer chicken tenders without breading recipe! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

✅ Foolproof Crispy Results – My simple method guarantees crispy chicken tenders on the outside and perfectly juicy chicken inside, every single time! No more dry or rubbery chicken. Follow my tips for that perfect texture without any breading.

✅ Amazingly Versatile – Use these air fryer chicken strips for salads, wraps, appetizers, or as a main course. The seasoning pairs well with countless dips and side dishes. Easily customizable!

✅ Budget-Friendly Meal – Making these homemade air fryer chicken tenders is significantly cheaper than buying pre-made or ordering takeout. Get restaurant-quality results for a fraction of the price.

Ready in just 15 minutes! This air fryer chicken tenders no breading recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. With my detailed pro tips below, you’ll achieve professional, crispy chicken tender results from your very first try.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading

(Exact quantities in the recipe card below)

The Star:

3 lbs Chicken Tenders: Also known as chicken tenderloins. These are the small, tender strip of meat located underneath the chicken breast. You can also use chicken breasts cut into 1-inch thick strips. Patting them completely dry is crucial!

The Flavor Makers:

1 tbsp Avocado Oil: Or any high-smoke point oil like light olive oil or grapeseed oil. Just enough to help the spices adhere and promote crisping.
1.5 tbsp Smoked Paprika: The secret weapon! Provides a deep, smoky flavor and gorgeous color. Do not substitute regular paprika if you want that signature taste.
1.5 tbsp Garlic Powder: Essential savory base note. Use powder, not granulated garlic or garlic salt.
1.5 tbsp Onion Powder: Complements the garlic powder for a well-rounded savory profile.
1 tbsp Dried Parsley: Adds flecks of color and a subtle herby freshness.
½ tbsp Lemon Pepper Seasoning: Provides a bright, zesty counterpoint to the smoky paprika. Check if yours contains salt!
½ tsp Salt (Optional): Add only if your lemon pepper is salt-free, or adjust to your taste preference. Start with less; you can always add more.
Optional: ¼ – ½ tsp Cayenne Pepper or Red Pepper Flakes for a spicy kick!

Must-have Ingredient Notes for Perfect No Breading Chicken Tenders:

Quality Chicken: For the best air fryer chicken tenders, start with fresh, good-quality chicken tenderloins. Ensure they are similar in size for even cooking. If using frozen, thaw completely in the refrigerator first.
The Right Oil: Avocado oil is excellent due to its neutral flavor and high smoke point (ideal for air frying). Using just a small amount is key – too much oil will prevent crisping.
Smoked Paprika Power: This spice is non-negotiable for achieving that deep, almost ‘grilled’ flavor profile that makes these no breading chicken tenders so special. It mimics the flavor often achieved with breading and frying.
Salt Check: Many lemon pepper blends contain significant amounts of salt. Taste your blend first before adding extra salt to the seasoning mix. Over-salting is a common mistake.

Dietary Alternatives:

Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free as written! Ensure your individual spices are certified gluten-free if celiac disease is a concern.
Paleo/Whole30: This recipe is compliant! Ensure your lemon pepper blend doesn’t contain sugar or non-compliant additives.
Low-FODMAP: Omit garlic and onion powder. Increase smoked paprika and consider adding a pinch of asafoetida powder (hing) for an oniony note, if tolerated. Use garlic-infused oil instead of avocado oil for flavor without the FODMAPs.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading – Step by Step

Prep the Chicken and Seasoning

Step 1: Dry the Chicken
This is CRITICAL for crispiness! Remove the chicken tenders from the packaging. If desired, remove the tough white tendon (you can often pull it out or snip it with kitchen shears). Pat the chicken tenders completely dry with paper towels. Excess moisture = steam = no crisp! Set aside.

Step 2: Mix the Seasoning
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the avocado oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, lemon pepper, and optional salt (if using) and cayenne pepper. Stir everything together until you have a well-combined, fragrant spice paste.

🔍 SNACKABLE TIP: Mixing the spices with the oil before adding the chicken ensures every tender gets evenly coated for maximum flavor penetration and a consistent ‘crust’!

Mixing spices and oil in a bowl for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders - No Breading, demonstrated by Louisa Jannet
Step 2: Creating the perfect seasoning paste ensures even flavor distribution.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Add the patted-dry chicken tenders to the bowl with the seasoning mix. Use tongs or your hands (wear gloves if preferred) to toss the chicken gently but thoroughly, ensuring every surface is coated with the spice blend.

Air Fry to Perfection

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating is essential for achieving that initial sear and crispy exterior on your air fryer chicken tenders. Don’t skip this!

Step 5: Arrange in Basket
Once preheated, lightly spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray (optional, but helps prevent sticking). Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do NOT overcrowd the basket! Cook in batches if necessary for the best crispy chicken tender results. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of crisping.

🔍 SNACKABLE TIP: Leaving a little space between each tender allows the hot air to circulate fully, ensuring every part of the chicken gets that delicious crispy finish! This is key for no breading chicken tenders.

Step 6: Air Fry and Flip
Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes. Then, open the basket and use tongs to flip each chicken tender over.

Step 7: Finish Cooking & Check Temperature
Continue air frying for another 4-6 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are cooked through and golden brown. The most accurate way to check for doneness is with an instant-read meat thermometer. The internal temperature should register 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the tender. Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your tenders and your specific air fryer model.

Step 8: Rest and Serve
Remove the cooked air fryer chicken strips from the basket and let them rest for 1-2 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring maximum tenderness. Serve immediately with your favorite dips!

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Save this easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders - No Breading recipe for later - delicious, healthy homemade chicken strips by chef Louisa Jannet
Pin this simple & flavorful Air Fryer Chicken Tenders No Breading Recipe for a quick weeknight win!

Pro Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading

🌡️ Perfect Temperature & Time: The magic combination is 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway. This high heat quickly crisps the outside while keeping the inside juicy. Don’t be tempted to cook at a lower temperature for longer; you’ll lose that desirable texture contrast. Always use a meat thermometer – it’s the ONLY foolproof way to guarantee perfectly cooked (not dry!) chicken. The required internal temp is exactly 165°F (74°C).

💧 Dryness is Key: I can’t stress this enough: PAT. THEM. DRY. Any moisture on the chicken surface will turn to steam in the air fryer, preventing that delicious seasoned ‘crust’ from forming. Use multiple paper towels if needed. This is the #1 secret for crispy chicken tenders without breading.

↔️ Single Layer Only: Fight the urge to pack the basket! Air needs to circulate around each tender. Cooking in batches is far better than overcrowding. This ensures even cooking and maximizes crispiness for your air fryer chicken strips.

🌿 Spice it Up (Variations):
* Spicy: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or 1 tsp red pepper flakes to the mix.
* Italian: Swap lemon pepper for 1 tbsp Italian seasoning and ½ tsp dried oregano. Add grated Parmesan in the last 2 mins of cooking.
* Ranch: Omit lemon pepper, add 1.5 tbsp dry ranch seasoning mix.
* BBQ: Omit lemon pepper, add 1 tbsp brown sugar (or keto alternative) and 1 tsp chili powder. Serve with BBQ sauce.

⏲️ Meal Prep Magic: Can I prepare these no breading chicken tenders ahead? Absolutely! Season the chicken tenders as directed (Steps 1-3), then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, proceed directly to Step 4 (preheating). They might need an extra minute or two of cooking time straight from the fridge.

✨ The “Secret” Ingredient Feel: While simple, the smoked paprika is what gives these healthy chicken strips that “wow” factor and mimics a deeper flavor usually associated with breading or grilling. Don’t skip it!

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)

Mistake: Not drying the chicken thoroughly.
- Solution: Pat each tender meticulously dry with paper towels before seasoning. Moisture = Steam = Soggy Tenders.
Mistake: Overcrowding the air fryer basket.
- Solution: Cook in a single layer, leaving space between tenders. Work in batches if your air fryer is small. Proper air circulation is critical for crisping.
Mistake: Not preheating the air fryer.
- Solution: Always preheat for 3-5 minutes at 400°F (200°C). This initial blast of heat helps sear the outside quickly.
Mistake: Guessing the doneness / Overcooking.
- Solution: Use an instant-read meat thermometer! Insert into the thickest part – it should read exactly 165°F (74°C). Chicken tenders cook fast; even an extra minute can dry them out.
Mistake: Using too much oil.
- Solution: Stick to the 1 tbsp measurement for 3 lbs of chicken. Just enough oil helps spices stick and promotes browning, too much makes them greasy and prevents crisping.

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading

The absolute best way to serve these flavorful air fryer chicken tenders is piping hot, straight from the air fryer, maybe with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. This captures their maximum crispness and juiciness!

Perfect Pairings & Serving Ideas:

Dipping Sauces: Essential! Try classic ketchup, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, creamy avocado dip, sriracha mayo, blue cheese dressing, or a garlic aioli. Offering a variety of dips makes it extra fun.
Classic Sides: Serve alongside air fryer french fries, sweet potato fries, a simple side salad, roasted broccoli or green beans, coleslaw, or mac and cheese for a comforting meal.
Healthy Meals: Slice the cooked tenders and add them to salads (Caesar, Cobb, garden), wraps (with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and ranch), or grain bowls for a protein boost.
Appetizer Platter: Serve them on a platter with various dips, celery sticks, and carrot sticks for a party or game day.
Kid-Friendly: Pair with fruit slices, applesauce, or steamed veggies for a balanced kid’s meal they’ll actually eat!

Delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders - No Breading served as a complete meal with air fryer fries, dipping sauces, and a side salad by chef Louisa Jannet
Serving suggestion: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading with air fryer fries, dipping sauces, and a fresh salad for a complete, delicious meal.

Nutritional Information (Approximate)

Per serving (assuming 6 servings, approx. 1/2 lb cooked chicken per serving):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~250 kcal
Protein	~45 g
Carbohydrates	~2 g
Fat	~7 g
– Saturated Fat	~1.5 g
Fiber	~1 g
Sugar	<1 g
Sodium	~300 mg

Disclaimer: These values are estimates calculated using online tools and can vary based on specific ingredients used (especially salt content) and portion sizes. Consult with a nutritionist for precise, personalized information.

Dietary Adaptations Notes:

Low-Carb/Keto: This no breading chicken tender recipe is naturally very low-carb and keto-friendly! Ensure your dips are also low-carb. Each serving has approximately 2g net carbs.
High-Protein Option: With around 45g of protein per serving, this is already a fantastic high-protein meal. Serve with high-protein sides like quinoa or Greek yogurt-based dips.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free. Just double-check your spice blend labels if needed.

Storage & Leftovers

Storing these air fryer chicken tenders correctly ensures they stay delicious for later!

🧊 How to store Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading leftovers?

Allow the cooked tenders to cool completely to room temperature (this prevents condensation and sogginess). Then, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

❄️ Can I freeze Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading?

Yes! These freeze surprisingly well. Arrange the cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). This prevents them from sticking together. Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

♨️ What’s the best way to reheat Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading?

The air fryer is your best friend for reheating! Reheat at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through and crisped up again. This method brings back much of the original texture. Avoid the microwave, as it tends to make them rubbery. You can also reheat them in a conventional oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5-8 minutes. If reheating from frozen, add a few extra minutes to the reheating time.

4 FAQs About Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can definitely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Simply cut them into even, 1-inch thick strips (similar in size to tenderloins) before proceeding with the recipe (patting dry, seasoning, etc.). Cooking time might be slightly longer (maybe 1-2 minutes extra) depending on thickness, so rely on your meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C).

2. My air fryer chicken tenders aren’t crispy! What did I do wrong?

The most common culprits for non-crispy no breading chicken tenders are: 1) Not drying the chicken enough – excess moisture creates steam. Pat them bone dry! 2) Overcrowding the basket – air needs to circulate freely. Cook in batches! 3) Not preheating the air fryer – the initial high heat helps create the crust. 4) Cooking at too low a temperature – stick to 400°F (200°C).

3. Can I make these air fryer chicken tenders ahead of time for a party?

Yes, this is a great make-ahead option! You can fully cook the chicken tenders up to a day in advance, store them in the fridge (as described in Storage), and then reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes just before serving. They’ll crisp right back up! Alternatively, season the raw chicken up to 24 hours ahead and air fry just before serving.

4. Are these healthy chicken strips really suitable for kids?

Kids absolutely adore these air fryer chicken tenders! They are flavorful but not typically spicy (unless you add cayenne). The tender texture is easy for little ones to eat. Because there’s no breading, they are often perceived as less ‘different’ than standard nuggets or tenders. Serve with kid-friendly dips like ketchup or mild honey mustard. My 7-year-old nephew requests these every time he visits – he has no idea they’re “healthy”!

Have You Tried This Recipe?

If you’ve made these Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading, I’d LOVE to see your creation! Did you stick to the recipe or add your own twist? Share your photos on Instagram and tag me @LouisaJannet with the hashtag #SlamRecipesAirFryer so I can admire your delicious results and maybe even feature them! Your feedback helps other readers too!

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Ready to Make the Best Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading Ever?

There you have it – my foolproof method and all the secrets for making incredibly juicy, flavorful, and crispy air fryer chicken tenders without any breading! This recipe proves that healthy eating can be absolutely delicious and incredibly simple. It’s the perfect solution for quick weeknight dinners, healthy meal prep, or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer.

Remember the keys: dry chicken, don’t overcrowd, preheat high, and use that smoked paprika!

Don’t forget to leave a comment below when you try this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders No Breading Recipe! Let me know what you thought, what dips you served them with, or any variations you tried. I truly love hearing from you and seeing how these recipes become staples in your kitchen.

Until next time, happy cooking, and enjoy your perfectly seasoned, guilt-free homemade air fryer chicken tenders!

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