crispy veggie "chicken tenders" are a delicious and healthier twist on a classic favorite. Made quickly in the air fryer, they’re perfect for a quick snack or a tasty meal everyone will enjoy.
Prep Time30 min
Cook Time10 min
Total Time40 min
Difficulty
Medium
Chef Tips
Preheat your air fryer for best results and even cooking.
Don’t overcrowd the basket; leave space for air to circulate.
Flip the tenders halfway through cooking to get an even crisp on all sides.
Ingredients
0/11
Why This Recipe Stands Out
These tenders are a delicious way to enjoy a crispy, comforting dish without any meat. They are packed with flavor and have a satisfying crunch thanks to the air fryer. Plus, they’re healthier than traditional fried options, making them perfect for a guilt-free treat.
Step 1
Spread the flour out on a large plate. Crack the eggs into a shallow bowl and beat them lightly. In another bowl, mix together the bread crumbs with garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, black pepper, chili powder, and salt.
Step 2
Take each veggie "chicken" strip and give it a good coating of flour first. Then dip it into the eggs, making sure it’s fully covered. Finally, press it into the seasoned bread crumb mix until it’s nicely coated. Set the coated strips on a plate as you go.
Step 3
Preheat your air fryer to 500°F. Once it’s hot, arrange a single layer of the coated strips in the basket. Give them a quick spray with cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Step 4
Air fry the strips for about 6 minutes. Then carefully flip them over using tongs and cook for another 4 to 6 minutes, or until they’re golden and crispy. Enjoy!
180
people cooked this recipe
ByMichael Davis
Michael enjoys creating straightforward meals that are easy to prepare at home.
How To Plate This Dish
Serve these with your favorite dipping sauces like barbecue, honey mustard, or ranch. They also go great alongside a fresh salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, add them to wraps or sandwiches.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to keep them crispy instead of using a microwave. If freezing, place them on a baking sheet first to freeze individually, then transfer to a bag.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of flour for the coating?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or chickpea flour if preferred.
What can I use instead of panko bread crumbs?
Regular bread crumbs or crushed cornflakes work well as alternatives.
How do I know when the tenders are done cooking?
They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside after 10-12 minutes total in the air fryer.
Can I bake these in the oven instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, bake at 425°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Is it necessary to spray the strips with cooking spray?
Spraying helps achieve a crispy texture but it can be skipped if you prefer less oil.
Can I make these ahead of time and reheat them?
Yes, store leftovers in the fridge and reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes.
What brand of imitation chicken breast works best?
Any seitan-based imitation chicken breast should work well, just ensure it’s firm enough to hold shape.
Can I add extra spices or herbs to the breading mix?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize with your favorite seasonings for extra flavor.
This simple and flavorful burger combines ground chicken with hearty chickpeas for a healthy twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknigh...
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Snacks
Meals
Drinks
Vegan
