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

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free are not just delicious; they’re also a healthy option for any meal. Perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or meal prep, these tenders come out crispy and flavorful without the guilt. The combination of almond flour and spices creates a delightful crust that pairs beautifully with the spicy sweet sauce. You will love how easy it is to whip them up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: These chicken tenders can be ready in under 30 minutes, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives these tenders a satisfying crunch without deep frying, keeping them low in carbs and calories.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to adjust the spice levels or switch up the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will enjoy these tasty tenders, making them a hit at family gatherings and parties.
• Health-Conscious Choice: With no gluten and low carbs, these tenders fit well into various dietary preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, you’ll need a few essential tools that ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Shallow bowls
• Whisk
• Baking sheet or plate
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This is crucial for achieving that perfect crispiness while reducing oil usage.
• Shallow bowls: These make it easy to coat the chicken tenders evenly with egg and almond flour.
• Whisk: A simple tool that ensures your sauce ingredients blend well together for maximum flavor.

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Ingredients

For the Egg Mixture

• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper

For the Coating

• 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

For the Chicken Tenders

• 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 Egg Mixture

Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl. Add kosher salt and black pepper. Whisk until combined.

Step 2: Make the Coating

In another shallow bowl, combine almond flour, garlic powder, parsley, smoked paprika, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture first, then coat thoroughly with the almond flour mixture. Set aside on a clean plate.

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

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

Step 5: Cook the Chicken Tenders

Place some of the coated chicken tenders in an even layer in the air fryer basket. Spray lightly with more olive oil cooking spray. Close and cook for 7 minutes. Flip each tender over, spray again with olive oil, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat if necessary.

Step 6: Make the Sauce

In a pot over medium heat, melt butter completely. Stir in hot sauce, honey, tomato paste, kosher salt, and black pepper. Whisk together and let cook on low heat for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 7: Serve

Once all chicken is cooked through, transfer it to a platter or clean plate. Drizzle generously with 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 crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are not just a main dish; they can be served in various delightful ways. Elevate your meal with creative serving suggestions that will impress your family and friends.

With a Side of Veggies

• Fresh Salad: Pair your chicken tenders with a simple green salad, topped with your favorite dressing.
• Steamed Broccoli: Serve alongside steamed broccoli for a nutritious and colorful plate.
• Roasted Cauliflower: Add some roasted cauliflower for a flavorful, low-carb side.

Dipped in Sauce

• Sweet and Spicy Sauce: Drizzle the spicy sauce over the tenders for an added kick.
• Ranch Dressing: Offer ranch dressing on the side for dipping, perfect for those who prefer milder flavors.
• Honey Mustard: A mix of honey and mustard can provide a sweet contrast to the savory chicken.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps: Place the chicken tenders in large lettuce leaves with diced veggies for a light wrap.
• Low-Carb Tortillas: Use gluten-free tortillas to create delicious wraps filled with chicken and fresh toppings.

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

To achieve the best results with your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your tenders come out perfectly crispy every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh chicken tenders yield better flavor and texture than frozen ones.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Cook in batches to allow air circulation for even cooking and crispiness.
• Preheat Your Air Fryer: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure optimal cooking temperatures right from the start.
• Spray Generously with Olive Oil: A good coating of olive oil spray helps achieve that golden-brown crust.
• Check Internal Temperature: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let Them Rest: Allow your cooked chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain their juiciness.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders can enhance your meal. Here are some fantastic low-carb options to consider.

1. Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini is a great pasta alternative that complements chicken well.
2. Cauliflower Rice: Light and fluffy, cauliflower rice makes an excellent base for your meal without the carbs.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Tender grilled asparagus adds elegance and flavor while keeping it low-carb.
4. Cabbage Slaw: A refreshing cabbage slaw brings crunch and tanginess that pairs nicely with chicken tenders.
5. Cheesy Broccoli Bake: This creamy, cheesy dish offers comfort while still aligning with low-carb goals.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Fill bell peppers with turkey or beef mixture and bake them as a hearty side dish.
7. Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado tossed with lime juice makes for a refreshing complement to crispy chicken.
8. Radish Chips: Thinly sliced radishes baked until crispy provide a unique, crunchy alternative to traditional chips.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delicious outcome. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland tenders. Be generous with salt and spices in both the egg and almond flour mixtures.

• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many tenders in the air fryer at once can prevent them from cooking evenly. Cook in batches to achieve that perfect crispiness.

• Not preheating the air fryer: Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer to ensure consistent heat throughout.

• Using low-quality oil spray: An insufficient amount of oil can lead to dry chicken tenders. Use a good quality olive oil cooking spray for optimal moisture and texture.

• Ignoring internal temperature: Not checking the doneness of the chicken can yield undercooked tenders. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

• Rushing the sauce preparation: Preparing the sauce too quickly may affect its flavor. Take your time and let it cook properly for better taste.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

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

• Place cooled tenders in 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 your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Sauté on medium heat in a non-stick pan for about 5 minutes until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Air Fryer Chicken Tenders:

Can I use other flours instead of almond flour?

Yes, you can use coconut flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs as alternatives, but be aware that they will alter the texture slightly.

How do I make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free crispy?

Ensure you coat each tender evenly with oil and avoid overcrowding the basket while cooking, which helps achieve maximum crispiness.

What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?

Spicy ranch, honey mustard, or even a homemade barbecue sauce complement these tenders perfectly!

Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bread them ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Feel free to customize them with different spices or serve them with your favorite dipping sauces. Give this recipe a try for a satisfying low-carb and gluten-free meal!