Tender and juicy air fryer chicken tenders without breading is a fast and tasty recipe that is ready in only 20 minutes (including prep!). Enjoy this delicious air fryer chicken recipe with your favorite side dishes for a fast weeknight meal.
Prep Time5 minutesmins
Cook Time7 minutesmins
Marinating time (optional)30 minutesmins
Total Time12 minutesmins
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: air fryer grilled chicken, air fryer grilled chicken strips, grilled chicken in air fryer
Combine with olive oil, Montreal steak seasoning, and smoked paprika. (optional) : cover and marinate for 30 minutes or up to 24 hours.
Preheat air fryer for 3 minutes at 370F.
Brush olive oil in the preheated air fryer basket or use air fryer parchment. Position chicken tenders in the basket so that they aren't touching.
Cook at 370F for 5 minutes. Flip and cook for an additional 2 minutes (some models may need more or less time).
Test chicken with an instant-read thermometer. Chicken must be cooked to 165F.
Cover the chicken and allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes prior to serving. This keeps it extra juicy!
Notes
For best results, marinate the chicken with olive oil and seasoning for at least 30 minutes.
Do not skip the step of preheating the air fryer. A hot air fryer means the chicken starts cooking right away and fully cooks in less time. Shorter cooking time = juicier chicken.
All air fryers will be slightly different for cooking time. Test your chicken at the 5-minute mark.
Use an instant-read meat thermometer to make sure the chicken is fully cooked to 165F.