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

These easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free are a delightful twist on a classic dish. Perfectly crispy and bursting with flavor, they make a fantastic snack or meal for any occasion. Whether it’s game day, family dinner, or a quick weeknight bite, these tenders will impress everyone at the table. Plus, they’re low in carbs and gluten-free, making them suitable for various dietary preferences without sacrificing taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: These chicken tenders come together in just 21 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
• Crispy Texture: The air fryer gives these tenders a golden crunch without the need for deep frying.
• Flavorful Sauce: The spicy-sweet sauce elevates the taste, providing an irresistible kick that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile Meal: Serve these tenders as a main dish, appetizer, or even in salads for added protein.
• Healthy Option: Made with almond flour and no gluten, these tenders fit well into low-carb diets.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders effectively, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Air fryer
• Shallow bowls
• Cooking spray
• Mixing spoon
• Pot

Importance of Each Tool

• Air fryer: This appliance cooks food quickly while achieving that desired crispiness without excess oil.
• Shallow bowls: Ideal for breading the chicken tenders; they make the dipping process easier and less messy.

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 Chicken

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

Step 2: Cook in the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees F (200 degrees C) and spray the basket with olive oil spray.
2. Place some of the chicken tenders in an even layer in the air fryer basket. Spray them lightly with olive oil spray.
3. Close the air fryer and cook for 7 minutes. Afterward, flip each tender over, spray with more olive oil spray, and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes until crispy and cooked through. Repeat this step if cooking in batches.

Step 3: 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 everything together and let it simmer on low heat for about 2-3 minutes before removing from heat.

Step 4: Serve

Once all of your chicken is cooked to perfection, transfer it to a platter or clean plate. Drizzle or top with your flavorful sauce while it’s still warm. Enjoy your delicious Air Fryer Chicken Tenders!

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

These crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether you enjoy them as a snack or as part of a full meal, they are sure to impress everyone at the table.

As a Main Dish

• Serve with a fresh garden salad for a light yet filling meal.
• Pair with steamed vegetables for a healthy, colorful plate.

With Dipping Sauces

• Offer ranch or blue cheese dressing for a classic combination.
• Try a homemade honey mustard for a sweet and tangy flavor.

In a Wrap

• Roll them up in lettuce leaves with your favorite toppings for a low-carb wrap.
• Use whole grain or gluten-free tortillas for added texture.

On Top of Rice or Quinoa

• Place the chicken tenders over brown rice or quinoa to create a hearty bowl.
• Add some stir-fried vegetables for extra nutrition.

As Party Appetizers

• Cut them into bite-sized pieces and serve on toothpicks with dipping sauces.
• Arrange on a platter with celery sticks and carrot sticks for a colorful presentation.

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

To achieve the best results with your Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, keep these tips in mind. Following these suggestions will help you get that perfect crispy texture every time.

• Use fresh chicken tenders: Freshness enhances flavor and juiciness compared to frozen options.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Cooking in batches allows proper air circulation, ensuring even cooking.
• Spray generously with oil: A good coating of olive oil spray helps achieve that desired crispiness without extra carbs.
• Flip halfway through cooking: This ensures both sides are evenly cooked and browned, giving you crispy tenders all around.
• Let them rest before serving: Allowing the chicken to rest helps retain moisture, making each bite juicy.
• Experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust the seasoning blend according to your taste preferences for unique flavors.

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. Below are some delicious options that complement their flavor while keeping it low-carb and gluten-free.

1. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles topped with olive oil and garlic provide a fresh alternative to pasta.
2. Cauliflower Rice: A great low-carb substitute for traditional rice, seasoned with herbs for extra flavor.
3. Steamed Broccoli: This nutrient-packed veggie adds crunch and color to your plate while keeping it healthy.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden brown, these sprouts add texture and depth of flavor alongside chicken tenders.
5. Avocado Salad: A refreshing mix of avocado, tomatoes, and onions dressed in lime juice brings brightness to the meal.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy cabbage slaw made with vinegar instead of creamy dressings provides crunch without excess carbs.
7. Riced Radishes: Cooked radishes offer a unique twist on rice, providing both color and subtle flavor that pairs well with chicken.
8. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower: Creamy mashed cauliflower mixed with garlic gives you comfort food without the carbs.

Enjoy crafting your meals around these perfect pairings!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make mistakes when cooking Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the egg wash: Not using an egg wash can lead to the coating not sticking properly. Always coat your chicken tenders in egg before breading for a perfect crust.
• Overcrowding the air fryer: Placing too many tenders in the air fryer can prevent them from cooking evenly. Cook in batches for the best results.
• Not preheating the air fryer: Failing to preheat can result in uneven cooking. Always preheat your air fryer for optimal crispiness.
• Ignoring cook times: Cooking for too long or too short can ruin your meal. Follow the recommended cooking times closely, adjusting based on your specific air fryer model.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Using stale or low-quality ingredients affects flavor and texture. Always use fresh, high-quality products for the best taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

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

• Place cooled chicken 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 oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Sauté in a pan over medium heat with a bit of oil until warmed and crispy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free?

Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free are crispy chicken strips made without traditional breadcrumbs, using almond flour instead. They’re healthy, delicious, and easy to make!

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

To keep these chicken tenders gluten-free, use blanched almond flour as a coating instead of regular flour or breadcrumbs.

Can I customize the spice levels in Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?

Absolutely! You can adjust the amount of garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even add cayenne pepper if you like it spicier.

How long does it take to cook Air Fryer Chicken Tenders?

It takes about 11 minutes total—7 minutes on one side followed by another 4-5 minutes after flipping.

Final Thoughts

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – Low-Carb and Gluten-Free are a delightful choice for a quick dinner or snack. Their crispy texture combined with a sweet and spicy sauce makes them irresistible! Feel free to customize them with your favorite spices or sauces for added flavor. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!