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Air-Fried Ranch Chicken Tenders

These crispy, Air-Fried Ranch Chicken Tenders are the perfect back-to-school snack! Coated in a zesty ranch seasoning, they offer a delicious crunch without the guilt. Easy to make, kid-approved, and ready in minutes and perfect for those busy school days! For more satisfying recipes follow Brandon at @brandongouveia.

Tasty Team
83% would make again
Total Time

55 minutes

55 min

Prep Time

10 minutes

10 min

Cook Time

15 minutes

15 min

Air-Fried Ranch Chicken Tenders
Total Time

55 minutes

55 min

Prep Time

10 minutes

10 min

Cook Time

15 minutes

15 min

Ingredients

for 2 servings

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloin
  • 4 teaspoons smoked paprika, divided
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder, divided
  • 4 tablespoons ranch seasoning, plus more for garnish
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • canola oil cooking spray

Preparation

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (180˚C).
  2. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, ranch seasoning, and buttermilk. Toss to coat. Let the tenders marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, salt, black pepper, onion powder, 2 teaspoons of smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder.
  4. Working in batches, remove the chicken from the buttermilk and coat it in the seasoned flour mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated and shaking off any excess flour. For extra-crispy tenders, double dredge by dipping the coated chicken tenders back in the buttermilk and then coating them again in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess flour.
  5. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, making sure they are not overcrowded. Coat the chicken evenly with cooking spray to help achieve a crispy coating.
  6. Carefully transfer the basket to the preheated air fryer and cook the tenders for 15 minutes, or until the chicken is golden and crispy and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F.
  7. Remove from the air fryer and lightly dust with ranch seasoning. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
  8. Enjoy!
  9. Don't just wing it -- plan it! Use our meal planner tool in the Tasty app. Download here.
Air-Fried Ranch Chicken Tenders