Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite dish: BBQ chicken tenders made in the air fryer! Seriously, it’s like magic how these juicy little pieces of chicken turn out so crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, all while being covered in that rich, smoky BBQ sauce that just makes your taste buds dance. I remember the first time I made these for my family; the aroma filled the kitchen, and I could hardly wait for them to be ready. Everyone gathered around, and the moment they took their first bite, you could just see the smiles light up their faces. It’s such a simple recipe, too—just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes in the air fryer, and voilà! Dinner is served. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a weekend gathering, these BBQ chicken tenders are always a hit. Trust me, you’ll want to add this to your regular meal rotation!

Ingredients for BBQ Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these delicious BBQ chicken tenders. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 pound chicken tenders: These are usually sold pre-cut, making them perfect for quick cooking. If you can’t find tenders, you can slice chicken breasts into strips.
1 cup BBQ sauce: Choose your favorite brand or homemade BBQ sauce. The flavor really shines through, so go for something you love!
1 teaspoon garlic powder: This adds a wonderful depth of flavor. You can also use fresh minced garlic if you prefer.
1 teaspoon onion powder: Another layer of savory goodness that complements the BBQ sauce perfectly.
Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key! Don’t be shy—add just enough to enhance the flavors.
Oil spray: A light spray of oil helps achieve that crispy texture without adding too much fat. You can use olive oil or any cooking spray you like.

And that’s it! With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying a plate of mouthwatering BBQ chicken tenders. So, let’s get cooking!

How to Prepare BBQ Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

Now that you’ve got your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—preparing these BBQ chicken tenders in the air fryer! It’s super simple, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly they come together. Just follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the air fryer: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This is really important because it helps the chicken cook evenly and get that lovely crispy finish.
Mix the sauce: In a mixing bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir until everything is well blended. Wow, the smell already is incredible!
Coat the chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the bowl, making sure they are thoroughly coated with that savory BBQ mixture. I like to use my hands to really get in there—it’s messy, but it’s part of the fun!
Prepare the air fryer basket: Spray the air fryer basket with a light coating of oil. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that golden-brown crust. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!
Arrange the tenders: Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Don’t overcrowd them; give them some space to cook evenly. If you have a lot, you might need to do this in batches.
Air fry: Cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through for that perfect crispiness. Keep an eye on them—it’s so worth it when they come out golden and delicious!
Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This step is crucial for safety! Once they’re cooked through, remove them from the air fryer.
Serve: Plate your BBQ chicken tenders and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce if you like. They’re fantastic served hot, so dig in and enjoy!

And there you have it! A simple, quick, and utterly satisfying way to make BBQ chicken tenders in your air fryer. You’re going to love how easy it is to whip these up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to fall in love with these BBQ chicken tenders made in the air fryer! Not only are they packed with flavor, but they also come together in a snap! Here are just a few reasons why this recipe is a must-try:

Quick Preparation: From start to finish, you can have these tenders on the table in about 22 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings!
Healthier Cooking Method: The air fryer gives you that crispy texture without the need for deep frying, making these tenders a lighter choice that still satisfies your cravings.
Great Flavor: The combination of BBQ sauce with garlic and onion powders creates a mouthwatering taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Easy Cleanup: With minimal mess and an air fryer that’s easy to clean, you can enjoy your meal without the hassle of a huge cleanup afterward.
Kid-Friendly: These tenders are a hit with kids and adults alike! Serve them up with some dipping sauce, and watch them disappear!
Versatile: Pair them with your favorite sides or toss them in a salad for a delicious meal that can be customized to fit any occasion.

Honestly, once you try these BBQ chicken tenders in the air fryer, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this recipe in your rotation!

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to make some delicious BBQ chicken tenders, here are my top tips to ensure they turn out perfectly every time:

Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you have the time, marinate the chicken tenders in the BBQ sauce mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This really helps the flavors penetrate the meat and makes every bite even more delicious!
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Give those tenders some room! If you overcrowd the air fryer basket, they won’t cook evenly and won’t get that lovely crispy exterior. It’s better to cook in batches if needed.
Flip Them Halfway: Make sure to flip the tenders halfway through cooking. This helps them crisp up nicely on both sides and ensures even cooking. You’ll be rewarded with that perfect golden color!
Use a Thermometer: Invest in a meat thermometer if you don’t have one. It’s the best way to check for doneness without cutting into your chicken. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to get creative with your BBQ sauce! Try different flavors or even mix in a bit of honey, hot sauce, or mustard for a unique twist that suits your taste buds.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, serve the tenders hot right out of the air fryer. They tend to lose their crispiness if they sit too long, so dig in while they’re fresh!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to making the most amazing BBQ chicken tenders in your air fryer. Enjoy the process and happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

As with any recipe, the nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose. So, keep in mind that these are just typical values for a serving of BBQ chicken tenders made in the air fryer:

Calories: 250
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 600mg

These values are based on a serving size of 4 tenders, and they give you a good idea of what to expect. Always feel free to adjust your ingredients to better suit your dietary needs and preferences. Happy cooking!

FAQ About BBQ Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer

Got questions? No worries! Here are some of the most common queries I get about making BBQ chicken tenders in the air fryer, along with my answers. Let’s clear up any doubts you might have!

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Absolutely! You can cook frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes. Just be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.

What if I don’t have BBQ sauce?

If you’re out of BBQ sauce, don’t panic! You can use other sauces like teriyaki, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mix for a different flavor profile. Get creative and make it your own!

How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?

The best way to check is by using a meat thermometer. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have one, you can cut into a tender to check that it’s no longer pink inside.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Yes, marinating overnight is a great idea! It allows the flavors to really seep into the chicken, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to store it in the fridge while it marinates.

What sides go well with BBQ chicken tenders?

So many options! You can serve them with coleslaw, sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or a fresh garden salad. They’re super versatile, so pick what you love!

Can I make these tenders in the oven instead?

Sure thing! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. Just keep an eye on them to achieve that lovely crispiness!

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating your air fryer is key! It helps to create that golden, crispy exterior. Just a few minutes of preheating can make all the difference in texture!

Hopefully, these answers help you feel more confident in making your BBQ chicken tenders in the air fryer! If you have any other questions, just drop me a message—I’m always here to help!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve made those mouthwatering BBQ chicken tenders, let’s talk about what to serve alongside them! The right sides can elevate your meal and complement those smoky, savory flavors beautifully. Here are some of my favorite pairing ideas:

Crispy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds a crunchy texture and a zesty tang that balances the richness of the BBQ chicken. It’s super easy to whip up and perfect for a summer vibe!
Sweet Potato Fries: These are an absolute must! The sweetness of the fries pairs so well with the BBQ sauce, and they’re just so satisfying. You can make them in the air fryer too for an extra crispy finish!
Grilled Corn on the Cob: There’s something magical about biting into sweet, juicy corn, especially when it’s grilled to perfection. It’s the ultimate summer side that everyone loves!
Garden Salad: A simple garden salad with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers is a light and vibrant option. Drizzle with a tangy vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the tenders.
Baked Beans: For a classic BBQ experience, serve up some warm, hearty baked beans. They’re a comforting side that adds a nice depth of flavor to your meal.

Feel free to mix and match these sides based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for! The great thing about this dish is its versatility—you can create a full spread that fits any occasion. Enjoy your BBQ chicken tenders with any of these delicious options, and watch everyone come back for seconds!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious BBQ chicken tenders, you might find yourself with some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to store and reheat them so they stay tasty and tempting!

To store your leftover chicken tenders, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. This step is super important, as it helps prevent sogginess. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just make sure they’re sealed well, so they don’t absorb any unwanted odors!

If you want to keep them for a longer period, you can freeze the tenders! Wrap each tender individually in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll be good for about 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them overnight in the fridge.

Now, when it comes to reheating, you’ll want to bring back that crispy texture. The best way to do this is to pop them back in the air fryer! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and air fry the chicken tenders for about 5-7 minutes, until they’re heated through and crispy again. If you don’t have an air fryer handy, you can also reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your BBQ chicken tenders even after the initial feast. Happy eating!

BBQ Chicken Tenders in Air Fryer: A Nostalgic Delight

Author: Louna
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Delicious BBQ chicken tenders made in an air fryer.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound chicken tenders
1 cup BBQ sauce
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Oil spray

Instructions

Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
In a bowl, mix the BBQ sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and coat them evenly with the sauce.
Spray the air fryer basket with oil.
Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket.
Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Remove from the air fryer and serve with extra BBQ sauce.

Notes

Marinate chicken for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
Adjust cooking time based on the thickness of the tenders.
Serve with your choice of sides.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Air Fryer
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 4 tenders
Calories: 250
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 600mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: bbq chicken tenders in air fryer

Spread the love