Craving that satisfying crunch of chicken tenders but dreading the carb overload? Prepare to have your mind blown by these incredible Air Fryer Keto Chicken Tenders that deliver maximum flavor with zero breading! Imagine sinking your teeth into perfectly seasoned, golden-brown chicken that's not only delicious but also completely keto-friendly. This recipe is about to revolutionize your low-carb meal game, proving that healthy eating never has to be boring or bland.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 12 mins
Total Time: 22 mins
Cuisine: Keto
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all the ingredients: 1 lb of chicken tenders, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, salt and pepper to taste, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
- In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
- Add the chicken tenders to the bowl with the spice mixture. Drizzle the 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the chicken. Using your hands or a spatula, toss the chicken tenders in the spice and oil mixture until they are evenly coated.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes while you prepare the chicken.
- Once preheated, arrange the seasoned chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Make sure not to overcrowd the basket to allow for even cooking.
- Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes. Flip the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure they are golden brown and cooked through on both sides.
- After the cooking time is complete, check the internal temperature of the chicken tenders. They should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps to retain the juices.
- Serve the air fryer keto chicken tenders with your favorite low-carb dipping sauce or enjoy them plain. These tenders are perfect for a keto-friendly meal or snack!
Tips
- Temperature is Key: Always preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking and that perfect golden exterior.
- Don't Overcrowd: Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer with some space between them. This allows hot air to circulate and creates maximum crispiness.
- Flip Midway: Turning the tenders halfway through cooking ensures even browning and prevents any soggy spots.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Let Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking to help retain those delicious juices.
- Experiment with Seasonings: While this recipe uses a classic blend, feel free to customize with your favorite keto-friendly spice combinations.
- Serve Immediately: These tenders are best enjoyed fresh and hot from the air fryer for maximum crispiness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 75mg