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- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper - 1 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour for a gluten-free option) - 2 large eggs - 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs - Cooking spray

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Dip

Discover the joy of Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Zesty Ranch Dip, a healthier twist on a classic favorite. These juicy, tender chicken strips boast a golden, crispy coating, all thanks to the air fryer. Perfect for family dinners, game day, or meal prep, this recipe is easy to follow and loaded with flavor. Learn how to marinate, bread, and cook the tenders, alongside a delicious homemade ranch dip that complements their crunch. Enjoy this guilt-free indulgence today!
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Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Tenders:

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko for extra crispiness)

2 large eggs, beaten

Cooking spray (or olive oil spray)

For the Zesty Ranch Dip:

½ cup Greek yogurt

½ cup mayonnaise

1 teaspoon dried dill

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon lemon juice

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken strips, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor and tenderness.

    Prepare the Breading: Set up a breading station. In one bowl, place the all-purpose flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, place the breadcrumbs.

      Bread the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Dredge each piece in flour, shaking off any excess. Dip in the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere. Repeat until all chicken tenders are breaded.

        Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.

          Cook the Chicken Tenders: Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray to help achieve a golden brown crispy coating. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

            Prepare the Ranch Dip: While the chicken is cooking, make the dip by mixing together the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.

              Serve: Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool for a couple of minutes. Serve them hot alongside the zesty ranch dip.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 min | 1 hr 30 min (includes marination) | 4 servings