Craving crispy, juicy lemon pepper chicken tenders without the greasy mess? This air fryer recipe is the ultimate game-changer! 🍗✨ These golden-brown tenders are packed with zesty lemon flavor, a hint of heat, and a perfectly crispy coating—all made in under 30 minutes with minimal oil.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a game-day snack, or a meal prep favorite, this recipe delivers big flavors with little effort. Serve them solo, pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, or toss them in a buttery lemon glaze for extra punch. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
✔ Crispy & Juicy – The air fryer gives them that perfect crunch without deep frying.
✔ Bold, Tangy Flavor – Lemon pepper seasoning and fresh lemon juice make them irresistible.
✔ Healthier Alternative – Uses a fraction of the oil compared to deep frying.
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – A great meal for lunch, dinner, or snacking!
Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- 1½ tablespoons lemon pepper seasoning
For the Crispy Coating:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup lemon pepper fry mix (or use more flour if unavailable)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
For the Lemon Pepper Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
- In a large bowl, season the chicken tenders with garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, black pepper, chili flakes, and lemon pepper seasoning.
- Mix well to coat evenly. You can marinate overnight for deeper flavor or cook immediately.
Step 2: Coat the Chicken
- Set up a breading station with three bowls:
- Bowl 1: Flour + lemon pepper fry mix.
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs.
- Bowl 3: Extra flour for double coating (optional for extra crispiness).
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then coat in the flour mix, pressing lightly to adhere.
Step 3: Air Fry the Tenders
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Lightly brush the air fryer basket with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
- Air fry for 15 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes for even crispiness.
Step 4: Make the Lemon Pepper Butter Sauce
- In a small bowl, melt butter in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.
- Stir in lemon pepper seasoning and fresh lemon juice.
Step 5: Coat & Serve
- Remove the crispy tenders from the air fryer and brush them with the lemon pepper butter sauce while hot.
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce or alongside fries, rice, or a fresh salad.
Best Dipping Sauces for Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders
These crispy chicken tenders pair well with a variety of dips. Try:
✔ Ranch dressing – Cool and creamy.
✔ Honey mustard – Sweet and tangy.
✔ Buffalo sauce – For a spicy kick.
✔ Garlic aioli – Rich and garlicky.
Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
✔ Double Coating = Extra Crunch – For ultra-crispy tenders, double dip in flour after the egg wash.
✔ Shake the Basket – Flip tenders every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking.
✔ Don’t Overcrowd – Cook in batches for the crispiest results.
✔ Use Fresh Lemon – Freshly squeezed lemon juice enhances the flavor.
✔ Adjust Spice Level – Omit chili flakes for mild tenders or add hot sauce to the egg wash for extra heat!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Tenders?
Yes! Just slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips for the same result.
2. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to maintain crispiness.
3. Can I Make These Without an Air Fryer?
Yes! You can:
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Deep fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
4. What’s the Best Way to Make Them Extra Crispy?
Try using panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier coating or spray lightly with cooking oil before air frying.
These Lemon Pepper Chicken Tenders (Air Fryer) are crispy, juicy, and packed with zesty, buttery goodness. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner, a party snack, or meal prep, they’ll be a huge hit every time.
🔥 Now, it’s your turn! Try this recipe and let me know how it turns out in the comments. Happy cooking! 🍋🍗
