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Keto Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Keto Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading) - Crispy, Juicy, and Fast

Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Pre-heat 5 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken tenders (1.5 to 2 pounds), or chicken breasts cut into strips
  • Olive oil or avocado oil (2 tablespoons)
  • Garlic powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Onion powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Paprika (1 teaspoon; smoked or sweet)
  • Salt (3/4 to 1 teaspoon, to taste)
  • Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Optional: Cayenne or chili powder (1/4 teaspoon for heat)
  • Optional: Lemon wedges, fresh parsley, or chives for serving
  • Dipping sauces (keto-friendly): Sugar-free BBQ, ranch, aioli, or mustard

Instructions
 

  • Prep the chicken: Pat the tenders dry with paper towels. This helps them brown and prevents steaming.
  • Season: In a large bowl, toss chicken with oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add cayenne if you like heat. Coat evenly.
  • Preheat the air fryer: Set to 400°F (200°C) for 3 to 5 minutes. A hot basket gives better browning.
  • Arrange: Place chicken in a single layer in the basket. Leave a little space between pieces. Work in batches if needed.
  • Cook: Air fry for 9 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway. Start checking at 8 minutes. You want lightly browned edges and juicy centers.
  • Check doneness: Use a meat thermometer. Target 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
  • Rest briefly: Let the tenders sit for 3 minutes before serving to keep juices in.
  • Finish and serve: Squeeze with lemon, sprinkle herbs, and serve with your favorite keto-friendly sauce.
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