Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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  Chicken Breast, Boneless Skinless(567g)

  Boneless skinless. Buy in bulk and freeze — Costco rotisserie packs work too.

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  1 1/2 Tsp Salt, Divided ($0.08)
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  1 Tsp Freshly Cracked Black Pepper, Divided ($0.05)
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  Flour, All-Purpose, White(30g)
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  Egg, Whole, Large
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  Bread Crumbs, Dry, Plain(120g)
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  Bread Crumbs, Panko, Dry(120g)
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  Italian seasoning(5g)
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  Garlic powder(6g)
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  Onion powder(5g)
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  Paprika, Smoked(3g)
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  Cooking spray (per 1-second spray)

  Non-stick spray (PAM or store brand). Saves calories vs. pouring oil.

Instructions

1. 1Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then slice each breast lengthwise into tenders approximately ½ inch thick. Season all sides evenly with salt and black pepper.
2. 2Set up three shallow bowls in a row: whisk the eggs together in the first bowl; combine the all-purpose flour in the second bowl; mix the regular breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in the third bowl.
3. 3Working with one tender at a time, dredge in flour and shake off excess, then dip both sides in the egg mixture, and finally press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly on all sides. Place coated tenders on a clean plate.
4. 4Preheat the stovetop skillet over medium-high heat (about 350°F if using a thermometer), then add a thin layer of cooking spray or oil. Once the pan is shimmering and hot, carefully place 4 tenders in a single layer without overlapping.
5. 5Cook for 4–5 minutes until the underside is golden brown and crispy, then flip carefully using tongs. Cook the second side for another 3–4 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.
6. 6Transfer the first batch to a paper towel–lined plate to cool slightly. Repeat steps 4–5 with the remaining tenders, cooking in batches of 4.
7. 7Once all tenders have finished cooking and cooled for 2–3 minutes, divide evenly into 4 airtight containers while still warm for meal prep storage.
8. 8Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.