These chicken strips are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a delicious and healthier twist on a classic favorite. Ready in minutes using the air fryer, they’re great for a quick snack or meal.
Start by heating your air fryer to 370°F (190°C). Crush the pork rinds in a food processor until they look like coarse breadcrumbs, then pour them into a shallow bowl. In another dish, mix together the flour and barbecue seasoning. Beat an egg in a third bowl.
Take each chicken tender and first coat it in the flour mixture, then dip it into the beaten egg, and finally press it into the pork rind crumbs to cover completely. Give the air fryer basket a quick spray with some nonstick cooking spray.
Place half of the chicken tenders in the basket, making sure they’re not touching, and spray the tops lightly with cooking spray. Cook them for about 15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside. Once done, repeat the same with the rest of the tenders.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help the coating stick better.
- Preheat the air fryer for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
- Flip the strips halfway through cooking for extra crispiness on both sides.
These chicken strips are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy inside, all made quickly in the air fryer. They have a delicious smoky BBQ flavor without the mess of frying. It's a healthier way to enjoy a classic favorite that the whole family will love.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or extra BBQ sauce. Pair them with a fresh salad, coleslaw, or crispy fries for a complete meal. They also work great as a protein addition in wraps or sandwiches.
Store leftover chicken strips in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer or oven to keep them crispy instead of using a microwave. For longer storage, freeze them and thaw overnight before reheating.
