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

These easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free are not only a quick meal but also a fun way to enjoy chicken! Perfectly crispy and delicious, these tenders are great for weeknight dinners or game day snacking. The standout feature of this recipe is the spicy-sweet sauce that elevates the dish to a whole new level, making it suitable for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, you can have a tasty meal ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy Option: These tenders are low-carb and gluten-free, making them perfect for health-conscious eaters.
• Crispy Texture: The air fryer ensures that your chicken tenders come out crispy without all the extra oil.
• Flavorful Sauce: The spicy-sweet sauce takes these tenders from good to extraordinary.
• Versatile Dish: Serve as an appetizer, main course, or even as part of a buffet spread.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Mixing bowls
• Shallow plate
• Whisk
• Cooking spray

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This gadget cooks food quickly while giving it a crispy texture with minimal oil.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining the egg and dry ingredients easily.
• Whisk: Helps to mix sauces smoothly and ensures an even blend of flavors.

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 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 Coating

1. Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and season with salt and pepper.
2. In another shallow bowl, combine almond flour with garlic powder, parsley, paprika, and some additional salt and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture first, then coat it in the almond flour mixture. Set aside on a clean plate.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees F.
2. Spray the basket with olive oil cooking spray.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Tenders

1. Place some of the coated chicken tenders in an even layer in the air fryer basket.
2. Spray the tops with more olive oil spray.
3. Cook for 7 minutes, then flip each tender over.
4. Spray the other side with olive oil spray and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until crispy and cooked through. Repeat in batches if necessary.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Melt butter in a pot over medium heat on your stovetop.
2. Once melted, add hot sauce, honey, tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
3. Whisk together until combined and let cook on low heat for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Serve

Once all chicken is cooked, transfer it to a platter or clean plate. Top generously with the sauce before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free!

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

These delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are perfect for any meal. You can easily serve them in various ways to make your dining experience even more enjoyable.

With Dipping Sauces

• Ranch Dressing: A classic pairing that adds creaminess and flavor.
• Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, perfect for those who like a little sweetness.
• BBQ Sauce: Smoky and savory, a great option for grilling fans.

On a Salad

• Caesar Salad: Slice the tenders and toss them on a bed of romaine with Caesar dressing for a hearty meal.
• Greek Salad: Pair with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese for a fresh twist.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves to wrap chicken tenders with veggies and your favorite sauce for a low-carb option.
• Tortilla Wrap: Add the tenders to a whole-grain or gluten-free tortilla with avocado and salsa.

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

To achieve the crispiest and most flavorful chicken tenders, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken and spices enhance flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
• Don’t Skip the Oil Spray: A light coating of olive oil helps achieve that crispy texture without added carbs.
• Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Adjust Cooking Time: Depending on your air fryer model, you may need to tweak the cooking time slightly for perfect results.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders can elevate your meal. Here are some tasty options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Nutritious and easy to prepare, just steam until tender.
2. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed noodles offer a low-carb alternative to pasta.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy side that adds freshness; opt for a vinegar-based dressing for lower carbs.
4. Cauliflower Mash: Creamy mashed cauliflower is an excellent substitute for traditional mashed potatoes.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed with olive oil and seasoning, these sprouts become crispy when roasted.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, vinegar, and herbs complements the chicken tenders perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, it’s easy to make some common errors that could affect the crispiness and flavor of your dish. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the egg wash: Not using an egg wash can lead to the almond flour not adhering properly. Always dip your chicken tenders in the egg before coating them with the almond flour mixture.

• Overcrowding the air fryer: Filling the air fryer basket too much can prevent even cooking. Cook in small batches to ensure all tenders get that perfect crisp.

• Not preheating the air fryer: Failing to preheat can result in uneven cooking. Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees F for optimal results.

• Using too little oil spray: A light spray of olive oil is essential for achieving a crispy texture. Don’t skimp on the oil spray when coating the chicken tenders.

• Ignoring cooking times: Cooking chicken tenders for too long or too short could lead to either dryness or undercooked meat. Follow the recommended cooking times closely for juicy, tender results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

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

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350 degrees F and bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.

• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals until warm, but be aware this may make them less crispy.

• Stovetop: Warm in a non-stick pan over medium heat, flipping frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, we’ve got answers!

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

To achieve maximum crispiness, make sure to coat each tender well with almond flour and use enough olive oil spray during cooking.

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes! You can try coconut flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you’re looking for alternatives to almond flour.

Are these chicken tenders suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! They store well and can be enjoyed throughout the week as an easy grab-and-go meal option.

What should I serve with Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, low-carb vegetables, or even zucchini fries for a complete meal!

Final Thoughts

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free are not only simple and quick to make but also incredibly delicious! Their versatility allows you to customize them with different spices or sauces based on your preference. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or part of a healthy dinner, these tenders are sure to satisfy cravings. Give this recipe a try today!