Cooking frozen grilled chicken tenders in an air fryer is one of the easiest ways to whip up a healthy and delicious meal in a fraction of the time. Whether you’re meal prepping, planning a quick weeknight dinner, or satisfying a craving for crispy chicken, the air fryer is your ultimate kitchen ally. But how do you get the best results, with flavorful, tender chicken every single time?
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from step-by-step instructions to cooking tips, seasoning options, and serving suggestions.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- Frozen grilled chicken tenders (unbreaded): Use a brand like Tyson or Foster Farms, or opt for your favorite variety of frozen chicken.
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray (optional): Helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Seasonings (optional): Black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning.
That’s it! Frozen grilled chicken tenders already come prepared, so there’s no need for extra marinades or lengthy prep work.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheating the air fryer is a critical step for even cooking. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 2-3 minutes to ensure a crisply baked exterior.
Cooking Time and Temperature
Place the frozen grilled chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid stacking them to ensure even airflow and cooking. Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Note: If your chicken tenders are larger or thicker, you may need to extend the cooking time to 12-15 minutes.
Checking for Doneness
Use an instant-read meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C)—the USDA-recommended safe temperature for cooked chicken. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the chicken to get an accurate reading.
If the tenders aren’t quite done after the initial cook time, return them to the air fryer in 1-2 minute increments until they’re fully cooked.
Resting the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders and allow them to rest for 2-3 minutes. This helps seal in the juices, resulting in a tender and moist bite.
Tips for Optimal Flavor and Texture
- Don’t overcrowd the basket: Air needs to circulate to cook the tenders evenly. If you’re cooking for a crowd, work in batches.
- Use cooking spray: A light spray of olive oil or cooking spray can enhance the crispiness of the chicken.
- Shake or flip halfway through: Turn or shake the basket at the halfway point to ensure that all sides get golden brown and cooked evenly.
Customization Variations
Seasoning Options
Elevate your chicken tenders with these seasoning ideas before or after air frying:
- Classic: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for a neutral and versatile flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or chipotle chili powder for a hint of heat.
- Herbaceous: Mix Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like rosemary for an earthy aroma.
- Smoky Flavor: Smoked paprika adds depth and pairs beautifully with grilled chicken.
Marinades and Coatings
If you’d like to infuse extra flavor into your chicken:
- Marinades: Coat the chicken with lemon juice, lime juice, or your favorite marinade for 30-60 minutes before air frying.
- Coatings: For extra crunch, toss in panko breadcrumbs or almond flour before air frying. Coat lightly with egg whites or olive oil to help the coating stick.
Note: Ensure your chicken is fully thawed before marinating or coating.
Serving Suggestions
Complementary Dipping Sauces
Pair your chicken tenders with these delicious side sauces:
- Chick-fil-A sauce
- Chipotle mayo
- Barbecue sauce
- Honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
Ideal Side Dishes
Round out your meal with quick and easy side dishes:
- Crispy Tater Tots: You can make them in the air fryer for a one-appliance meal.
- Fresh Salad: Add some greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette for a light, healthy option.
- Roasted Veggies: Air fry frozen broccoli or brussels sprouts alongside the chicken for added flavor and balance.
Whether you’re indulging in comfort food or crafting a healthier plate, there’s no shortage of pairings for this versatile dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Got leftover chicken tenders? Here’s how to keep them fresh:
- Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes at 350°F to revive the crisp exterior. Microwaving may make the tenders rubbery, so we suggest sticking with the air fryer.
Pro tip: Label your storage container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook breaded frozen chicken tenders in an air fryer?
Absolutely! The cooking process is similar, though breaded tenders may need an additional 2-3 minutes to crisp up nicely.
Do I need to thaw frozen chicken tenders before air frying?
No need to thaw! Air fryers are designed to cook food straight from frozen, making meal prep significantly quicker.
What are some good brands of frozen grilled chicken tenders?
Popular brands like Tyson, Foster Farms, and Perdue offer great options for air fryer cooking. Always choose high-quality, white meat chicken for the best results.
Are air fryers healthier than deep fryers?
Yes! Air fryers use significantly less oil, resulting in crispy, delicious meals without the added calories or grease.
Can I use an oven instead of an air fryer?
If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake your tenders in the oven at 375°F for 15-18 minutes. However, the results may not be as crispy compared to air frying.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the approximate nutritional breakdown for 4 oz (about 3 tenders) of air-fried frozen grilled chicken:
- Calories: 150
- Protein: 22g
- Fat: 3.5g
- Carbs: 0g
- Sodium: 400mg
Values may vary depending on the brand of chicken and any added ingredients.
Elevate Your Weeknight Meals with Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
There’s no denying that air fryer frozen grilled chicken tenders are a game-changer in the kitchen. They’re quick, easy, and versatile, making them perfect for a range of healthy, delicious meals. Use these tips and tricks to get the perfect crispy, juicy chicken every time—and don’t forget to experiment with seasonings and sides to keep things exciting.
Hungry yet? Grab your favorite frozen chicken tenders, fire up the air fryer, and get cooking!