If you’re looking for a quick and delicious way to enjoy a smoky BBQ flavor without firing up the grill,Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe are here to save the day. These juicy, tender strips of chicken are coated in a mouthwatering BBQ glaze, perfectly caramelized in the air fryer. Whether you’re planning a family dinner, meal prepping, or whipping up snacks for game day, this recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into the details of making this flavorful dish!
What Are Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe are tender strips of chicken breast, seasoned with spices, coated in BBQ sauce, and cooked to perfection in an air fryer. The air fryer ensures the chicken stays juicy while creating a slightly crispy outer layer, making these tenders irresistible.
The Origin of BBQ Chicken Recipe
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe originated from Southern U.S. culinary traditions, where meats were slow-cooked over wood smoke and basted with flavorful sauces. Chicken tenders, being a modern adaptation, provide a quick and convenient way to enjoy these smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors without a grill.
Ingredients for Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Chicken tenders | 1 lb (about 8-10 strips) |
| BBQ sauce | ½ cup |
| Olive oil | 1 tbsp |
| Garlic powder | 1 tsp |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp |
| Onion powder | ½ tsp |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Optional: A splash of honey for sweetness or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
Equipment Needed
- Air fryer
- Mixing bowl
- Silicone brush
- Tongs
- Meat thermometer
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Clean and pat dry the chicken tenders. If tenders are not pre-cut, slice a chicken breast into long, thin strips.
- Ensure the strips are of even thickness for uniform cooking.
2. Marinating for Maximum Flavor
- In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Toss the chicken tenders in the mixture, ensuring they’re evenly coated.
- Cover and let marinate for at least 15-30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate for 2-3 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Cooking in the Air Fryer
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking.
- Cook for 8-10 minutes on one side, flip, and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- During the last 3-4 minutes, brush the tenders generously with BBQ sauce. This caramelizes the sauce and enhances the smoky flavor.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C).
Health Benefits of BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Low-Fat Cooking: Air frying uses minimal oil, making this recipe a healthier alternative to deep frying.
- Rich in Protein: Chicken tenders are an excellent source of lean protein, which supports muscle repair and overall health.
- Customizable Flavor: You can use low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce to reduce added sugar and sodium.
Additional Tips for Perfect Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Choose Fresh Chicken: Fresh chicken tenders cook more evenly and taste better than frozen ones.
- Don’t Skip Preheating: Preheating the air fryer ensures even cooking and reduces cooking time.
- Use a Thermometer: Overcooking can dry out the chicken, so ensure it’s perfectly cooked by checking the internal temperature.
- Brush BBQ Sauce at the Right Time: Adding BBQ sauce in the final minutes prevents it from burning and creates a caramelized glaze.
Best Ways to Serve Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders Recipe
- With Dipping Sauces: Serve with extra BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or honey mustard for dipping.
- As a Meal: Pair with coleslaw, roasted veggies, or a side of sweet potato fries.
- In Wraps or Sandwiches: Use the tenders in wraps, tacos, or sandwiches for a delicious lunch option.
- On Salads: Slice the tenders and toss them over a fresh salad for a healthy meal.
Calories and Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving (2 Tenders) |
| Calories | ~200-250 |
| Protein | ~25g |
| Fat | ~6g |
| Carbohydrates | ~10g (varies based on BBQ sauce) |
| Sodium | ~400mg |
Prep Time and Cook Time
| Task | Time Required |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Marination Time | 15-30 minutes |
| Cook Time | 15-17 minutes |
| Total Time | ~45 minutes |
Conclusion
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Tenders are a fantastic combination of convenience, flavor, and healthiness. Perfect for any occasion, these tenders offer a smoky, caramelized BBQ taste with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving them as a main course or a snack, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Plus, with the air fryer, you get all the flavor of BBQ chicken without the mess of traditional cooking methods. Try this recipe today and enjoy the simplicity of air frying!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating for even cooking and better flavor absorption.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer for 2-3 minutes to regain crispiness.
3. Can I use homemade BBQ sauce?
Absolutely! Homemade BBQ sauce allows you to customize the flavor and control the sugar and sodium levels.
4. What if I don’t have smoked paprika?
You can substitute it with regular paprika and a dash of liquid smoke for a similar flavor profile.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, but cook the tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer, ensuring they cook evenly.