Air Fryer Naked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon ground cumin
• 1 tablespoon ground coriander
• 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 pound skinless, boneless chicken tenderloins
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
• 4 wedges fresh lemon (optional)

Directions

Step 1: Preheat your air fryer to 390F (199C), following the manufacturers guidelines.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine cumin, coriander, black pepper, garlic powder, and salt. Stir until well mixed.

Step 3: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel. Drizzle olive oil over the tenders, then rub both sides with the spice mixture, pressing down gently to ensure they are evenly coated.

Step 4: Place the seasoned chicken tenderloins in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time.

Step 5: To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165F (74C) in the thickest part of the tenderloin.

Step 6: Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches. Adjust cooking time as necessary.

Step 7: Once done, remove the chicken from the air fryer and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with a wedge of lemon if desired.

Cook's Note

Lining the air fryer basket with a disposable parchment liner can make cleanup easier. Leftovers can be cut into pieces and added to a salad for a quick and tasty lunch.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 222
• Total Fat: 7g (9% Daily Value)
• Saturated Fat: 2g (8% Daily Value)
• Cholesterol: 96mg (32% Daily Value)
• Sodium: 617mg (27% Daily Value)
• Total Carbohydrates: 3g (1% Daily Value)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% Daily Value)
• Protein: 36g (72% Daily Value)
• Vitamin C: 2mg (2% Daily Value)
• Calcium: 46mg (4% Daily Value)
• Iron: 3mg (14% Daily Value)
• Potassium: 359mg (8% Daily Value)

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary depending on your calorie needs.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, consult your doctor or a registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

The Story Behind Air Fryer Naked Chicken Tenders

Air Fryer Naked Chicken Tenders are a modern twist on the classic chicken tender, a staple of American comfort food. Unlike breaded or heavily fried versions, these naked tenders rely on a flavorful spice rub and the high-efficiency cooking of an air fryer to create juicy, tender chicken without the extra calories from oil or breadcrumbs. The concept of naked chicken tenders gained popularity in the 2010s as home cooks sought healthier alternatives to traditional fried foods, with the rise of air fryer technology making the process faster and simpler than ever.

Regional Variations

While chicken tenders are enjoyed across the United States, regional adaptations exist. In the South, tenders are often paired with bold Cajun spices or hot sauces, while in the Midwest, milder seasonings like garlic and paprika are preferred. The naked style tends to be more common in health-conscious urban areas, such as New York or California, where the emphasis is on lean protein and low-fat cooking. The flexibility of the seasoning allows each region to make the dish their own, whether with a zesty spice rub or fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro.

Difference From Similar Dishes

Unlike classic fried chicken tenders or chicken nuggets, naked chicken tenders do not have a breaded coating. This gives them a lighter texture and allows the natural flavor of the chicken to shine through. The cooking methodusing an air fryerproduces a crisp exterior without submerging the meat in oil, which differentiates them from traditional deep-fried versions. Compared to baked chicken strips, air fryer tenders cook faster and maintain more moisture, resulting in a juicier bite.

Typical Serving Occasions

These tenders are versatile and can be served in a variety of settings. They make a quick weeknight dinner when paired with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables, and they are also popular as finger food for parties or game-day snacks. Many restaurants and casual eateries now offer air fryer tenders as a healthier menu option, often accompanied by dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or a tangy lemon aioli. Leftovers are frequently repurposed into wraps, sandwiches, or salads.

Interesting Facts

• The term naked in cooking refers to the absence of breading or batter, emphasizing simplicity and flavor.
• Air fryers work by circulating hot air around the food, mimicking the effect of deep-frying but with up to 75% less fat.
• Chicken tenders are technically the pectoralis minor muscles of the chicken, prized for their tenderness and quick cooking time.
• Using fresh lemon wedges not only adds a bright flavor but also helps tenderize the chicken slightly during serving.
• This recipe is highly adaptable: additional spices like smoked paprika, chili powder, or cumin can be mixed in for regional flair or personal taste.

FAQ about Air Fryer Naked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Comments