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

Ever tasted chicken tenders so juicy and flavorful that you forget they’re not breaded? This air fryer chicken tenders recipe delivers exactly that experience. Perfectly seasoned and with an incredible texture that rivals any restaurant version, these no-breading chicken strips will become your new weeknight favorite.

I’ve spent years perfecting these air fryer chicken tenders, testing countless variations until I found the magical combination of spices that transforms plain chicken into something extraordinary. The secret? A perfect blend of smoky paprika and lemon pepper that creates deep flavor without any breading or flour. Trust me, this will become your new go-to recipe!

Recipe Overview

⏱️ Total time: 15 minutes
🔪 Prep time: 5 minutes
🍳 Cook time: 10 minutes
👥 Servings: 4 people
🔥 Difficulty: Easy
💰 Cost: Budget-friendly

Freshly prepared 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 5 times now and they’re always a hit! My family requests them weekly. The instructions are so clear and it really does take just 15 minutes.”
— Sarah K.

“My kids are picky eaters but absolutely devoured these tenders! The spice blend is perfect – flavorful without being too spicy for little ones.”
— Mike T.

Contents

• 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 easy – The best way to make chicken tenders at home in just 15 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights!

✅ Family-approved – Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of these quick and easy chicken strips!

✅ Foolproof results – Follow my simple method for perfect tender, juicy chicken every single time!

✅ Versatile recipe – Easily customizable with ingredients you already have in your pantry!

✅ Budget-friendly – Save money with these homemade chicken tenders that taste better than restaurant quality!

Ready in just 15 minutes! This recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. With my detailed tips below, you’ll get professional results from the very first try.

Ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading

For the chicken:

• 3 lbs chicken tenders (about 12-14 pieces)
• 1 tbsp avocado oil

For the seasoning:

• ½ tbsp lemon pepper
• 1.5 tbsp garlic powder
• 1.5 tbsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp dried parsley
• 1.5 tbsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt (optional, depending on lemon pepper)

Must-have ingredients for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading:

Quality ingredients: For the best air fryer chicken tenders, always use fresh chicken tenders, as it significantly affects the final flavor. However, if you can’t find tenders, you can slice chicken breast into strips yourself.

Best spices for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: The perfect blend includes smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of lemon pepper for that authentic flavor without any breading.

Dietary alternatives: This recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free since it uses no breading, flour, or milk. For a low-sodium version, omit the added salt and use salt-free lemon pepper seasoning.

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

Preparation

Step 1
First, pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This is crucial for getting a nice exterior texture even without breading!

Step 2
In a small bowl, combine all the seasonings: lemon pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried parsley, smoked paprika, and salt (if using). Mix well to create your seasoning blend.

🔍 SNACKABLE TIP: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper to your seasoning blend for an incredible flavor boost that will make everyone ask for your secret!

Step 2: Combining the perfect blend of seasonings for no-breading chicken tenders

Coating and Cooking

Step 3
Place the chicken tenders in a large bowl and drizzle with avocado oil. Toss to coat evenly, ensuring each piece is lightly covered with oil.

Step 4
Sprinkle the seasoning blend over the chicken tenders and use your hands to massage the spices into the meat, making sure each piece is thoroughly coated. The oil helps the seasonings stick to the chicken without needing any breading!

🔍 SNACKABLE TIP: Let the seasoned chicken sit for 5 minutes before air frying to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat!

Step 5
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 2-3 minutes. Working in batches if necessary, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t overlap.

Cooking and Serving

Step 6
Air fry the chicken tenders for 5-6 minutes, then flip them over and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a beautiful golden exterior.

Pin For Later

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

🌡️ Perfect temperature – The secret to amazing chicken tenders is cooking at 400°F (200°C). Too hot and they dry out; too cool and they won’t get that gorgeous golden exterior.

⏱️ Timing is everything – Can I prepare the chicken ahead? Absolutely! Season the chicken up to 8 hours in advance and refrigerate. This actually enhances the flavor, but you may need to add an extra minute to the cooking time.

👁️ Visual doneness test – What makes these chicken tenders extra special? Look for a slightly caramelized exterior with clear juices when pierced – that’s when you know they’re perfectly done!

🔪 Quick flavor variations – Transform this recipe by adding: 1) Italian seasoning, 2) Cajun spice blend, or 3) curry powder for an exciting twist!

🥣 Quality ingredients hack – Can’t find chicken tenders? Use chicken breasts sliced into 1-inch strips with a splash of olive oil to recreate that tender texture.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Mistake: Overcrowding the air fryer basket – Solution: Instead, work in batches for even cooking and crispier results
• Mistake: Skipping the oil entirely – Solution: Rather than omitting it, use just enough to help seasonings adhere
• Mistake: Not patting chicken dry – Solution: To prevent sogginess, always thoroughly dry chicken before seasoning

Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading

The best way to serve air fryer chicken tenders is fresh from the air fryer, with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. This showcases the incredible flavors and textures at their peak!

Perfect pairings:

• Side dishes: Serve alongside sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, or fresh garden salad for a complete meal
• Dipping sauces: These pair beautifully with honey mustard, ranch, or buffalo sauce to complement the flavors
• Occasions: Perfect for quick family dinners, game day gatherings, or a simple lunch option

Serving suggestion: Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading with dipping sauces for a complete meal

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	210 kcal
Protein	29 g
Carbohydrates	2 g
Fat	10 g
Fiber	0.5 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	320 mg

Approximate values per serving (based on 4 servings). Consult with a nutritionist for personalized information.

Dietary adaptations

• Low-carb version available! This recipe is already naturally low-carb with just 2g of carbs per serving.
• High-protein option: These chicken tenders already provide an excellent 29g of protein per serving – perfect for fitness enthusiasts!
• Gluten-free option: This recipe is naturally gluten-free since it uses no breading or flour – perfect for those with gluten sensitivities!

Storage & Leftovers

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

After preparing this dish, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Before doing so, make sure they have cooled completely to prevent condensation that could make them soggy.

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

Yes! This recipe freezes beautifully. First, divide into individual portions for easier thawing. Then, wrap well in plastic wrap and subsequently in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Finally, freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply place in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.

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

For that fresh-made taste, reheat in an air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 3-4 minutes. This method preserves the moisture and texture. However, avoid microwaving because it can make your chicken tenders rubbery and dry.

4 FAQs About Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading

Can I freeze Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading?

Absolutely! You can freeze these chicken tenders for up to 3 months in an airtight container. Just make sure they’re completely cooled first. When you’re ready to enjoy them, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor.

What can I substitute for avocado oil in this recipe?

Don’t worry if you’re missing avocado oil! You can easily use olive oil or melted coconut oil instead. Just adjust the amount slightly by keeping it to about 1 tablespoon to maintain the perfect flavor balance in your chicken tenders.

Can I make these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders ahead of time for a party?

Yes, this is a great make-ahead dish! Prepare everything up to step 4, then refrigerate for up to 8 hours. When your guests arrive, just finish the final cooking steps. This actually allows the flavors to develop even more for extra-tasty chicken tenders!

Is this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders recipe kid-friendly?

Kids absolutely love these chicken tenders! If you’re cooking for little ones with more sensitive palates, simply reduce the smoked paprika to ½ tablespoon and they’ll still clean their plates. My 7-year-old nephew asks for this dish every time he visits!

Have You Tried This Recipe?

If you’ve made these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – No Breading, I’d LOVE to see your creation! Share your photos on Instagram and tag @LouisaJannet with the hashtag #SlamRecipes so I can feature your masterpiece!

Rate This Recipe

★★★★★ from 38 votes

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

There you have it – all my secrets for making the perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders that will have everyone asking for your recipe! This dish truly brings together incredible flavors with minimal effort – the ideal combination for both special occasions and busy weeknights.

Don’t forget to let me know in the comments when you try this recipe! What did your family think? Did you add your own special twist? I love seeing how you make this recipe your own!

Until next time, happy cooking and enjoy your delicious homemade Air Fryer Chicken Tenders!

Share This Recipe!

If you loved this recipe, help others discover it too!

Print