Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

• chicken tenders↗1.5 lbs

  about 12-16 pieces

• all-purpose flour↗0.75 cup
• kosher salt↗0.5 teaspoon
• ranch seasoning packet1 ounce

  optional, see notes

• egg↗1
• hot sauce↗1
• milk0.75 cup

  plus 1 1/2 tsp vinegar

• regular bread crumbs↗2.5 cup
• spice mix↗2.5 tablespoon

  I use McCormick chicken‑grill seasoning

• avocado oil spray↗

Step-by-step instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the sauce stations! 1: Mix flour, salt and ranch seasoning. 2: Let the milk and vinegar sit together for 5 minutes (you get a “buttermilk”). Add them to the egg and hot sauce; whisk with a whisk. 3: Mix the bread crumbs with the spice mix.

2. 2

   Flatten the chicken tenders. Rub each tender several times on a cutting board with the flat side of a knife (see video). They should be slightly flattened or opened.

3. 3

   Coat! Dredge each tender in flour; shake off excess. Dip into the buttermilk mixture; let excess drip off. Then coat in the bread crumbs, turning and gently pressing several times until the entire surface is covered. Set aside and repeat with all tenders.

4. 4

   Arrange in the air fryer. Place as many tenders as possible in a single layer (I usually fit 6 at a time). Generously spray avocado oil until the surface is lightly and evenly coated – this helps achieve an even golden‑brown color.

5. 5

   Cook and serve: air‑fry at 400 °F for 7‑9 minutes. Outside should be golden‑brown, interior 165‑175 °F. Serve with your favorite sauce! Absolutely delicious!