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Nashville Style Hot Chicken Tenders (Air Fryer Recipe) Recipe

Nashville Style Hot Chicken Tenders (Air Fryer Recipe) Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 53 reviews
  • Author: Anna
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Air Fry
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Enjoy these crispy and spicy Nashville Style Hot Chicken Tenders made in the air fryer for a healthier twist on a classic dish. Tender chicken coated in a flavorful breading, cooked to perfection, and tossed in a fiery hot paste for an unforgettable taste experience.


Ingredients

Units Scale

Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb chicken tenders
  • 3/4 cup milk
  • 2 Tablespoon hot sauce
  • 3/4 cup panko bread crumbs
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Hot Paste:

  • 1/2 cup peanut oil
  • 2 Tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 1/2 Tablespoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dry mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season tenders with salt and pepper. Create a dredging station with milk and hot sauce in one bowl, and panko bread crumbs with seasonings in another.
  2. Cook in Air Fryer: Coat chicken in milk mixture, then bread crumbs. Air fry at 375°F for 14-16 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  3. Make Hot Paste: Combine ingredients in a saucepan and heat until bubbling.
  4. Toss and Serve: Toss cooked tenders in hot paste, ensuring they are well coated. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Preheat air fryer before cooking for even results.
  • Cook tenders in a single layer or in batches for best crispiness.
  • To reduce spiciness, adjust the amount of cayenne pepper.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 650mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 13g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 27g
  • Cholesterol: 75mg