Air Fryer Chicken Tenders With Flour And No Egg: 8 Steps

Introduction

Air fryers, a healthier alternative to traditional frying methods, have revolutionized home cooking. One popular dish to make in an air fryer is crispy chicken tenders. In this article, we’ll explore how to make delicious air fryer chicken tenders using flour without eggs, ensuring a tasty and wholesome meal.

Benefits of Using an Air Fryer

Before diving into the recipe, let’s highlight the advantages of using an air fryer for cooking. Because they provide a healthier option to conventional frying techniques, air fryers have completely changed home cuisine. This method reduces calorie intake and promotes a healthier lifestyle.

Ingredients Needed

To prepare air fryer chicken tenders with flour and no egg, you’ll need:

• Chicken tenders
• All-purpose flour
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, etc.)
• Olive oil (optional, for added crispiness)
• Cooking spray

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders: Start by patting dry the chicken tenders with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Coat with Flour: In a shallow bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with your desired seasonings.
3. Dip and Coat: Dip each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides.
4. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to the recommended temperature for chicken (usually around 400°F or 200°C).
5. Arrange in the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
6. Cook Until Crispy: Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking. Adjust the time as needed based on the thickness of the tenders.
7. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
8. Serve Hot: Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Crispy Tenders

• Preheating the air fryer and arranging the tenders in a single layer promotes crispiness.
• Adding a light drizzle of olive oil before air-frying enhances the golden brown color and crunch.
• To promote enough air circulation and uniform cooking, keep the air fryer basket from becoming overly crowded.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your air fryer chicken tenders with a side of dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. Pair them with a fresh salad or crispy fries for a complete meal.

Why Skip the Egg?

There are several reasons why you might choose to forgo the egg when making air fryer chicken tenders:

• Egg allergy: If you or someone you’re cooking for has an egg allergy, this recipe is a lifesaver.
• Vegan preference: A flour-based coating offers a vegan alternative to the traditional egg wash.
• Simplicity: Sometimes, keeping things simple is the way to go. Eliminating the egg step saves time and reduces the number of bowls you need.

Flour Power: Choosing the Right Kind

Flour plays a crucial role in achieving a crispy exterior for your chicken tenders. Here are some options to consider:

• All-purpose flour (AP flour): This readily available flour is a good starting point. It offers a neutral flavor and creates a decent level of crispiness.
• Bread flour: With a higher protein content than AP flour, bread flour can lead to a slightly chewier crust. Perfect if you like a bit more texture.
• Sprouted flour: Made from whole grains that have been sprouted, this flour offers a slightly nutty flavor and additional nutrients.
• Gluten-free flour blend: If you have a gluten intolerance, choose a gluten-free flour blend specifically formulated for frying or baking.

Pro Tip: Whichever flour you choose, ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.

Spice Up Your Life: Flavorful Seasonings

Flour alone won’t give your tenders much excitement. Here are some ideas for delicious spice mixes:

• Classic: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Simple, but always satisfying.
• Spicy: Cayenne pepper, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and a pinch of chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
• Italian: Dried oregano, basil, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
• Lemon Pepper: Lemon zest, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a zesty twist.
• Cajun: Cajun seasoning mix, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for a bold flavor explosion.

Feel free to experiment and create your own signature spice blend!

The Tender Touch: Chicken Preparation

Here’s how to get your chicken tenders ready for the air fryer:

1. Pat it dry. To get rid of any extra moisture from the chicken, use paper towels.This promotes even crisping.
2. Slice it right: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even-sized strips. Aim for a thickness of about 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch. Thicker tenders will take longer to cook.
3. Season it simply: You can sprinkle your chicken with a little salt and pepper before coating, or leave it plain and rely on the spice mix in the flour for flavor.

Coating Magic: The Flour Powerhouse

Now comes the fun part: coating the chicken! Here’s how to do it:

1. Shallow dish of flour: Place your chosen flour in a wide, shallow dish. Season the flour with your chosen spice mix and whisk it all together.
2. Dredge and coat: Working with one tender at a time, dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, ensuring it’s evenly coated on all sides. Gently shake off any excess flour.
3. Double coat (optional): For an extra crispy crust, you can repeat the dredging process, creating a thicker coating.

Pro Tip: Don’t overcrowd the dish with flour. Use a separate plate for the coated chicken to avoid over-coating or clumping.

Conclusion

Air fryer chicken tenders with flour (no egg) offer a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken. By following these simple steps and tips, you can enjoy crispy, golden-brown tenders that are sure to be a hit at any meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
   • Yes, you can use a healthy alternative in place of whole-wheat flour.
2. How do I keep the chicken tenders from adhering to the basket of the air fryer?
   • Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray before placing the tenders to prevent sticking.
3. Can I marinate the chicken tenders before coating them with flour?
   • Yes, marinating can add extra flavor. However, ensure the chicken is not too wet to prevent clumping of the flour coating.
4. What other seasonings can I use for the flour mixture?
   • Get creative! You can add spices like cumin, chili powder, or even grated Parmesan cheese to the flour mixture for added flavor.
5. Can I makIs it possible to prepare and reheat these chicken tenders in advance?
   • While they are best enjoyed fresh, you can reheat them in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain crispiness.