Name: Air Fryer Potato Chip Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 8 pieces Small Chicken Tenders (boneless and skinless); 1 large Egg (beaten); 1 spray Cooking Oil Spray; 1/4 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Paprika; 1/4 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Ranch Seasoning; 1/4 teaspoon Dried Parsley; 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper (adjust according to spice preference); 1 small bag Potato Chips (crushed); Salt (to taste)

If you’re looking for a fun and delicious way to enjoy chicken tenders, you’ve landed in the right place! These Air Fryer Potato Chip Chicken Tenders offer a satisfying crunch and a burst of flavor, all while being incredibly easy to prepare. Using your favorite potato chips as a coating, this recipe transforms ordinary chicken tenders into a flavorful and crispy dish that everyone will love. Perfect for dinner, lunch, or even a game day snack, these tenders are bound to become a family favorite.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients and steps, these tenders are a breeze to whip up.
Crispy Texture: The potato chip coating adds an irresistible crunch, making these tenders truly special.
Flavor Packed: A blend of spices elevates the taste, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Healthier Option: Cooking in an air fryer reduces the need for excessive oil, making these tenders a lighter choice.

Your Shopping Guide

Small Chicken Tenders: 8 pieces, boneless and skinless for best results.
Egg: 1 large, beaten to create a binding agent for the chips.
Cooking Oil Spray: Use to help achieve that golden brown crispiness.
Onion Powder: 1/4 teaspoon for a subtle, sweet flavor.
Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon to add a touch of smokiness and color.
Garlic Powder: 1/4 teaspoon to enhance the savory notes.
Ranch Seasoning: 1 teaspoon for a creamy, zesty kick.
Dried Parsley: 1/4 teaspoon for a hint of freshness.
Cayenne Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon for a bit of heat—adjust according to your spice preference.
Potato Chips: 1 small bag of your favorite brand, crushed to create a crunchy coating.
Salt: To taste, ensuring the flavors are perfectly balanced.

Must-Have Equipment

Air Fryer: The star of the show, providing that crispy texture without deep frying.
Mixing Bowl: For combining the egg and spices.
Plastic Bag or Parchment Paper: For crushing the potato chips easily.
Cooking Spray Bottle: For even oil distribution over the chicken tenders.

Make Air Fryer Potato Chip Chicken Tenders: A Simple Method

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by rinsing your small chicken tenders under cold water and patting them dry with a paper towel. This helps the coating adhere better.

Step 2: Mix the Coating

In a mixing bowl, beat the egg, then add the onion powder, paprika, garlic powder, Ranch seasoning, dried parsley, cayenne pepper, and salt. Whisk until combined.

Step 3: Crush the Potato Chips

Using a plastic bag or parchment paper, crush the potato chips into small pieces. You want a mix of fine crumbs and larger chunks for optimal crunch.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in the crushed potato chips, pressing gently to make sure the chips adhere well.

Step 5: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure the tenders cook evenly.

Step 6: Cook the Tenders

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking oil spray. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overcrowded. Spray the tops lightly with oil to help them crisp up.

Step 7: Air Fry

Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer for 8-10 minutes, flipping them halfway through for even cooking. They are done when they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).

Holiday-Friendly Variations

BBQ Chip Coating: Use BBQ-flavored potato chips for a smoky twist.
Sweet Chili Flavor: Try sweet chili chips for a sweet and spicy kick.
Herb & Garlic Chips: Choose herb-flavored chips for an aromatic experience.
Buffalo Style: Toss the cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for a spicy treat.

Method to the Madness

The magic of these Air Fryer Potato Chip Chicken Tenders lies in the combination of flavor and texture. The potato chips create a unique, crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the juicy chicken inside. The blend of spices adds depth, making each bite a delightful experience. Air frying not only cuts down on excess oil but also creates a healthier version of a classic favorite, making them perfect for any occasion. Whether served with a side of dipping sauce or atop a salad, these tenders are a hit!

Save for Later: Storage Tips

If you happen to have leftovers (which is unlikely, but just in case!):

Store any uneaten chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crunch.
Freezing is also an option! Freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer.

Ask & Learn

Can I use other types of chicken pieces for this recipe?

Absolutely! While small chicken tenders work best, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips or even chicken thighs. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure they are cooked through.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake these chicken tenders in a conventional oven at 425°F (220°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through.

Can I make these tenders spicy?

Definitely! Feel free to add more cayenne pepper or use spicy potato chips to increase the heat level. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce to kick things up a notch.

What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?

These tenders are delicious on their own, but they pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for some extra flavor.

The Last Word

In a world where chicken tenders can often be bland and boring, these Air Fryer Potato Chip Chicken Tenders stand out for their incredible crunch and flavor. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or just a cozy night in, these tenders are a fun and tasty treat that will keep you coming back for more. Enjoy the crispy goodness!