Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free are a fantastic option for easy weeknight dinners or gatherings. With their crispy texture and flavorful spicy-sweet sauce, they will delight both adults and kids alike. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders are not only delicious but also healthy, making them an ideal choice for those watching their carb intake or adhering to gluten-free diets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy Preparation: In just 21 minutes, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crispy Texture: The air fryer ensures your chicken tenders come out perfectly crispy without the need for deep frying.
• Flavorful Sauce: The spicy-sweet sauce adds a delightful kick, making every bite irresistible.
• Low-Carb and Gluten-Free: Enjoy your favorite comfort food without the guilt, suitable for various dietary preferences.
• Kid-Friendly: These tenders are sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making them a hit at family meals.

Tools and Preparation

To create these delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Shallow bowls
• Whisk
• Pot
• Clean plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This tool is key to achieving that crispy texture without excessive oil. It cooks evenly while keeping the chicken tender.
• Whisk: A whisk helps blend ingredients smoothly for the sauce, ensuring a well-mixed flavor profile.
• Shallow bowls: These are perfect for coating the chicken tenders in egg and almond flour. They make the process mess-free.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup blanched almond flour
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 12 chicken tenders – about 1.5 lbs
• Olive oil cooking spray

For the Spicy-Sweet Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup hot sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

1. Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and season them with salt and pepper.
2. In another shallow bowl, mix together almond flour, garlic powder, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture first, then coat thoroughly with the almond flour mixture.
4. Place coated chicken tenders on a clean plate.

Step 2: Cook in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F (200 degrees C) and spray its basket with olive oil spray.
2. Arrange some chicken tenders in an even layer in the basket and spray them lightly with olive oil.
3. Close the basket and cook for 7 minutes.
4. Flip the tenders over, spray again with olive oil, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until crispy.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Melt butter in a pot over medium heat on the stovetop.
2. Once melted, add hot sauce, honey, tomato paste, salt, and pepper to the pot.
3. Whisk everything together well and let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer cooked chicken tenders to a platter or clean plate.
2. Drizzle hot sauce over them generously before serving warm.

Enjoy your homemade Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free!

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a casual meal, these tenders can be dressed up or down to fit any occasion.

Pair with Dipping Sauces

• Honey Mustard: A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the crispiness of the chicken.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, this classic dip is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Spicy Aioli: Add some heat with a zesty aioli made from garlic and mayonnaise.

Serve with Fresh Salads

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan, croutons, and Caesar dressing pairs well with the chicken.
• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese adds a Mediterranean twist.
• Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a nice crunch and balances the richness of the tenders.

Create a Wrap or Sandwich

• Tortilla Wraps: Roll the chicken tenders in tortillas with your favorite veggies for a quick wrap.
• Sandwich: Place tenders on whole-grain bread with lettuce, tomato, and your choice of sauce for a hearty meal.

How to Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free

To achieve perfectly crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, pay attention to these key tips for success.

• bold Preheat the Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer for optimal cooking results. This ensures even cooking and crispiness.
• bold Use Cooking Spray Generously: A light coating of olive oil spray helps achieve that golden-brown exterior without excess calories.
• bold Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking; give each tender space to crisp up.
• bold Flip Halfway Through Cooking: Turning the chicken tenders halfway ensures both sides cook evenly and become crispy.
• bold Let Rest Before Serving: Allow cooked tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain their juices for better flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free

Pairing your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options you can try.

1. bold Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles add freshness without extra carbs.
2. bold Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender makes a colorful side dish.
3. bold Cauliflower Rice: Fluffy cauliflower rice is not only low-carb but also absorbs flavors beautifully.
4. bold Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutrients and crunch; drizzle with lemon juice for extra flavor.
5. bold Greek Yogurt Dip: Serve a tangy yogurt dip on the side for dipping or drizzling over the chicken.
6. bold Mixed Green Salad: Toss together fresh greens with vinaigrette dressing for a light complement to the crispy chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your tenders turn out perfectly every time.

• Skipping the coating: Not using the almond flour mixture will result in less crispy chicken tenders. Make sure to coat each tender thoroughly for that crunch.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many tenders at once can lead to uneven cooking. Cook in batches for the best results.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Failing to preheat can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your air fryer for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking for too long or not long enough can ruin your chicken tenders. Follow the recommended times closely and adjust as needed based on your air fryer model.
• Using old oil: Using an inadequate oil spray can result in dry chicken. Fresh olive oil spray helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
• Neglecting sauce options: Sticking with just one sauce can limit flavor variety. Experiment with different sauces to elevate your dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before sealing them.

Freezing Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free

• Freeze cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag.
• They last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes; be cautious as this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

You can easily make these chicken tenders gluten-free by using blanched almond flour instead of regular flour, ensuring they fit your dietary needs.

Can I use different proteins for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken with turkey or even beef if you prefer. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on thickness.

What dipping sauces pair well with Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?

Try ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce! Each enhances the flavors of your chicken tenders beautifully.

How do I ensure my Air Fryer Chicken Tenders stay crispy?

Make sure to properly coat each tender and avoid overcrowding your air fryer basket. This allows hot air to circulate freely, keeping them crispy.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize them with various spices or sauces according to your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll find it perfect for healthy dinners or quick snacks!