Air-Fryer Crumbed Chicken Tenders
These crispy, golden chicken tenders are a little time-consuming to prep — but trust me, they are so worth it! Coated in homemade, HFI-safe breadcrumbs and cooked in the air fryer, they’re a hit with kids and adults alike. Perfect for lunch boxes, dinner, or even a fun weekend meal the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients
- Chicken tenderloins (as many as needed)
- 2 eggs
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Pinch of dried mixed herbs (optional)
- Homemade HFI-safe breadcrumbs (see recipe below)
- Olive oil spray (optional)
Homemade HFI-Safe Breadcrumbs
- HFI-safe Pane Di Casa bread (or similar)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Dried mixed herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the egg wash: Crack the eggs into a bowl, add a pinch of salt and pepper, and whisk until well combined.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Crumb the chicken: Roll each egg-coated tender in a bowl of HFI-safe breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating on all sides.
- Cook in the air fryer: Place the crumbed tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Lightly spray with olive oil (optional for extra crisp).Air fry at 190°C for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy! Let cool slightly before serving. These are great paired a side of boiled rice or on a burger.
Homemade HFI-Safe Breadcrumbs
- Tear safe bread (including crusts) into small pieces.
- Add to a food processor or Thermomix and pulse until the texture resembles fine crumbs.
- Preheat oven to 170°C and line a tray with baking paper.
- Spread the crumbs evenly on the tray.
- Sprinkle with a little salt, pepper, and dried herbs if desired.
- Bake for about 10 minutes, or until golden and dry.
- Allow to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the pantry. I like to make a large batch and pop half of the batch in a sandwich bag and freeze them.
