Air Fryer Crack Chicken Tenders

Prep Time	Cook Time	Total Time
20 min	12 min	32 min

How to Make Air Fryer Crack Chicken Tenders

Prep mode (keeps screen awake)

Mix the dipping sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, honey, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, garlic powder, and black pepper.
Cover and refrigerate the sauce while you prepare the chicken, so the flavors can blend and thicken slightly.
Preheat the air fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F for about 5 minutes, so the chicken starts cooking in a hot basket.
Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with cooking spray to help prevent sticking and promote browning.

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Make the crack coating

In a medium bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, grated parmesan, ranch seasoning mix, and olive oil until smooth.
Add the chicken tenders to the bowl and toss until every piece is thoroughly coated in the creamy mixture.
For extra flavor and juiciness, let the coated tenders rest in the fridge for 10 to 15 minutes.
Mix the dry coating

In a separate shallow dish, combine the flour, cornstarch, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and panko breadcrumbs.
Stir well so the spices and starches are evenly distributed through the crumbs, which helps the crust cook evenly.
Coat the chicken tenders

Working one piece at a time, lift a tender from the mayonnaise mixture, letting any excess drip back into the bowl.
Place the tender into the dry coating and press on each side so the crumb mixture sticks well.
Set the coated tenders on a plate or tray, leaving a little space between each piece.

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Air fry the chicken

Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, leaving a bit of space.
Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help the crust crisp and turn a deep golden color.
Cook at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken reaches 165°F and the coating is crisp.
Serve with the crack sauce

Transfer the hot chicken tenders to a serving platter and let them rest for 3 to 5 minutes so juices settle.
Serve the tenders with the chilled ranch honey sauce on the side, or drizzle it over the top just before eating.

Tips

Dry the chicken well first: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels before coating so the creamy mixture adheres better and the crust stays crisp.
Do not overcrowd the basket: Cook in batches if needed; crowded tenders steam instead of crisping, which gives you a paler, softer coating.
Use a thermometer for perfect doneness: Check the thickest piece and pull the batch as soon as it hits 165°F to avoid dry, stringy meat.
Rest before serving: Let the tenders sit a few minutes after air frying so the juices redistribute and the crust firms up nicely.
Grate your own parmesan: Freshly grated parmesan melts into the mayo mixture more smoothly and gives a richer cheesy flavor than pre-grated tubs.

Energy	698	kcal
Protein	46	g
Total Fat	40	g
Carbohydrates	37	g
Dietary Fiber	0	g

FAQ

Can I bake these instead of using an air fryer?: Yes, you can bake them on a wire rack set over a parchment-lined sheet pan. Bake at 425°F for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping once, until the coating is crisp and chicken reaches 165°F. If you want extra color, broil for 1 to 2 minutes, watching closely so the crumbs do not burn.
How can I keep the coating from falling off?: Make sure the chicken is dry before coating, and press the crumbs on firmly so they stick. Also avoid moving the tenders too much in the basket, especially during the first few minutes of cooking. Use a thin spatula or tongs and flip gently to keep the crust intact.
Can I make these ahead of time?: You can bread the chicken a few hours ahead, then refrigerate it uncovered on a rack so the coating dries slightly. Air fry just before serving for the crispiest texture and best flavor. Cooked tenders reheat well in the air fryer at 350°F for 4 to 6 minutes until hot and crisp.
Can I reduce the richness or make them a bit lighter?: Use half mayonnaise and half Greek yogurt in the coating and sauce for a lighter, tangier version. You can also use light ranch dressing and skip drizzling extra sauce, serving it only on the side.

Serving Suggestions

These air fryer crack chicken tenders bring that restaurant-style crunch with a cozy ranch flavor right to your own kitchen.

Try serving them with crisp celery sticks, carrot coins, and extra ranch honey sauce for a fun, wing-night style platter.

For a full meal, pair the tenders with roasted potatoes or a simple chopped salad to balance the rich, crispy chicken.

More pairings:

Reviews

Natalie, Essex: My kids asked for something fun for dinner, and I decided to try these air fryer crack chicken tenders. They came out super crispy and juicy, and that ranch honey sauce was a big hit. A definite keeper! — 5 ★

Eunice: Happy to hear that, Natalie! 😊 If you ever want them even crispier, give the tenders a light mist of oil and don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket.