Quick Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders are crisp on the outside, juicy in the center, and packed with smoky blackened flavor. This easy air fryer chicken tender recipe uses a simple homemade seasoning blend and cooks in under 15 minutes, making it a fast, flavorful option for lunch, dinner, meal prep, or a high-protein snack.
These air fryer blackened chicken tenders deliver bold flavor without the mess of pan frying. They are inspired by classic blackened chicken tenders, but they are lighter, easier, and made with very little oil. The air fryer gives the chicken a deliciously seasoned exterior while keeping the inside tender and moist. The seasoning is smoky, savory, and mild enough for the whole family, including picky eaters.
Why These Are A Hit
- The homemade blackened seasoning uses only 6 basic spices: paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. It does not include red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or black pepper, so the flavor is bold but not overly spicy. That makes these chicken tenders a great kid-friendly air fryer dinner.
- This recipe keeps kitchen time short. You only need a few minutes to season the chicken and about 8 minutes to cook it in the air fryer. It is ideal for busy weeknights, quick lunches, and simple meal prep.
- There is very little cleanup. Since the chicken is air fried instead of pan fried, you do not have to deal with oil splatter or a greasy stovetop.
- These blackened chicken tenders are easy to serve in different ways. Pair them with ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, hot sauce, or your favorite dip. You can also slice them for tacos, serve them over salad, add them to wraps, or use them in sandwiches.
- They are naturally high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making them a practical option for many simple meal plans.
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Chicken Tenders: Chicken tenderloins are the easiest choice because they are already the right size and shape. You can also use boneless, skinless chicken breasts and slice them into strips. If you do, cut the strips as evenly as possible so they cook at the same rate. Pieces that are too thin can dry out, while thicker pieces may need extra time.
Oil: A small amount of oil helps the blackened seasoning stick to the chicken and encourages a crisp, flavorful coating in the air fryer. Extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil, or grapeseed oil all work well. Because this recipe uses the air fryer, you only need one tablespoon.
Seasonings: Paprika and smoked paprika create the deep color and smoky flavor that make these blackened chicken tenders so satisfying. Ancho chili powder adds a slightly richer, smokier flavor than regular chili powder, but regular chili powder also works. Garlic powder, onion powder, and salt round out the seasoning blend.
See the recipe card below for full ingredient amounts and detailed instructions.
Pro Tips
Remove the tendon from the chicken tenderloins before seasoning if needed. The tendon can be tough and chewy, so taking it out improves the texture of the finished chicken.
For spicier blackened chicken tenders, add ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend. Start small and adjust to your taste.
How They’re Made (Step By Step)
Step 1: In a small bowl, stir together the paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. Add the chicken tenders to a separate bowl and toss them with the oil until evenly coated. Sprinkle the seasoning over the chicken and rub it onto all sides.
Step 2: Lightly spray the air fryer tray or basket with cooking spray. Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer so the hot air can circulate around each piece. Air fry at 380°F for 8 minutes.
Step 3: Flip the chicken tenders halfway through cooking, around the 4-minute mark. Return the basket to the air fryer and continue cooking for the remaining 4 minutes.
Step 4: Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking. This helps the seasoned exterior set and keeps the inside juicy. Serve warm with your favorite condiment or side dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I serve with these?
How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?
Is this recipe keto?
What is the best way to store and reheat the chicken?
More Easy Air Fried Dinners
-
The Best Air Fryer Flautas
-
Easy Air Fryer Salmon and Vegetables
-
The Crispiest Air Fryer Chicken Sausage
-
Crispy Air Fryer Salt and Pepper Tofu
If you tried these Quick Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders, leave a star rating and share how they turned out in the comments. Thanks for visiting!
Quick Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders
Kate
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon ancho chili powder or regular chili powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- cooking spray
Instructions
-
In a small bowl, combine the paprika, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, toss the chicken tenders with oil until evenly coated. Add the blackened seasoning and coat the chicken on all sides.
-
Spray the air fryer tray or basket with cooking spray. Arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer. Air fry at 380°F for 8 minutes.
-
Flip the chicken tenders after 4 minutes, then return the basket to the air fryer and cook for the remaining 4 minutes.
-
Let the chicken cool for a couple of minutes so the seasoned exterior can set. Serve warm with your favorite dip or side dish.
Notes
Make Them Spicy: Add ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the seasoning blend. Add a little at a time and adjust to taste.
Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 5 minutes, or up to 12 minutes from frozen.
Nutrition
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 7g