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In recent years, air fryers have soared in popularity, transforming the way home cooks prepare their favorite fried foods. With their ability to deliver that coveted crispy texture while using significantly less oil, air fryers offer a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods. One such delightful recipe that highlights these benefits is Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders paired with a Smoky BBQ Dip. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer for gatherings, this dish checks all the boxes.

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with BBQ Dip

Discover delicious and healthier cooking with Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders paired with a Smoky BBQ Dip. This recipe makes the most of your air fryer, delivering a crunchy texture while using less oil. Made with lean chicken breast and a flavorful panko coating, these tenders are perfect for any occasion—be it dinner or a party appetizer. Enjoy the balance of flavors in the smoky BBQ dip, making every bite a delightful treat for family and friends.
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 pound chicken breast tenders

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

Cooking spray (for air frying)

For the BBQ Dip:

½ cup barbecue sauce

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar

1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Prepare the Chicken Tenders:

    - Rinse and pat dry the chicken tenders. Set aside.

      - In a shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

        - In a second bowl, beat the eggs until well blended.

          - In a third bowl, add the panko breadcrumbs.

            Coat the Chicken:

              - Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess.

                - Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat evenly with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.

                  - Repeat until all chicken tenders are coated.

                    Preheat the Air Fryer:

                      - Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

                        Air Fry the Chicken Tenders:

                          - Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray.

                            - Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding; you may need to do this in batches.

                              - Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray for extra crispiness.

                                - Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).

                                  Prepare the BBQ Dip:

                                    - In a small mixing bowl, combine the barbecue sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika. Mix well.

                                      - Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the sweetness or tanginess according to your preference.

                                        Serve:

                                          - Once the chicken tenders are cooked, serve them hot with the smoky BBQ dip on the side for dipping.

                                            Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings