Frozen Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer

My way to cook frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer makes the most crispy, tender, juicy chicken frozen chicken can create. I have made these more than 50 times because my kids just are chicken obsessed!

My Easy Way to Make Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders

I make frozen chicken tenders way too often than I like to admit, but having picky eating kids will do that. I’ve always made them in the oven, but they just take so long to cook. That’s when I decided to make the frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer.

I actually remember the first night I made the switch. I forgot to preheat the oven and there just wasn’t enough time to preheat it and cook the chicken before the rest of dinner was done.

I tossed the tenders in the air fryer and let them cook. And, since I had no idea what I was doing, I checked the chicken about 7 times to see if they were done. But even with that, the chicken still cooked so much quicker than baking them in the oven.

Now, even my 9-year-old daughter Leah helps me in making air fryer frozen chicken tenders by placing them in the basket and setting the time and temperature to cook. It’s a small step, but helps so much and she’s proud of it too!

How to Cook Frozen Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer

A full printable version of this recipe with ingredient measurements is available at the bottom of this post.

STEP ONE: Turn on the air fryer and set it to 360 degrees F to preheat.

STEP TWO: Arrange the pre cooked frozen chicken tenders in a single layer in the preheated air fryer. Make sure to give them space for air circulation, but it’s completely fine if they touch slightly.

STEP THREE: Air fry frozen chicken tenders for around 12 minutes, flipping halfway through to make sure the cooking times are equal.

STEP FOUR: Remove the air fryer chicken strips and serve them with your favorite sauce! 

Tips to Make the Best Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Tenders

• If you’re cooking larger pieces of frozen chicken tenderloin in air fryer, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Consider using a meat thermometer to make sure the air fryer frozen chicken strips are thoroughly cooked (165 degrees F).
• Allow the air fryer frozen chicken tenders to sit for a minute or two after cooking to lock in the juices.
• Shake the basket a couple of times as you air fry to make the best, most evenly crispy frozen chicken tenderloin in the air fryer.
• I like to use Tyson chicken tenders in the air fryer, but you can make air fried chicken with brands like Perdue, Pilgrims, Foster Farms, or any generic store brand.

What to Serve with Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Strips

• Air Fryer Squash and Zucchini 
• Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes 
• Ninja Foodi French Fries 
• Air Fryer Broccoli 
• Instant Pot Potato Salad 
• Air Fryer Green Beans 

Sauce Ideas for Chicken Strips

• Homemade Buffalo Sauce
• Honey Sriracha Sauce
• Ranch Dressing
• Blue Cheese Dressing
• Honey Mustard
• Homemade BBQ Sauce

Can I Air Fry Uncooked Frozen Breaded Chicken Tenderloins?

Absolutely! Keep in mind that uncooked frozen chicken fingers will need a different cooking process, time, and temperature compared to the pre cooked ones. 

You’ll find several recipes for uncooked chicken strips below, but the general rule is to air fry for about 10 minutes at 400 degrees F, carefully flipping halfway.

If the breading seems delicate or crumbly, you can use a parchment liner for easier cleanup.

More Air Fryer Chicken Tender Recipes

• Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Flour
• Air Fryer Buffalo Chicken Tenders
• Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)
• Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders

How Long to Cook Frozen Chicken Tender in the Air Fryer

To make your chicken tenders super crispy, spread them out evenly and cook for about 12 minutes. Flip the frozen chicken tenders in the air fryer once halfway through. 

If you stack them, they’ll take a bit longer to get crispy, so be patient and keep an eye on them!

How to Reheat Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer

To reheat leftover chicken tenders in the air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees, then place the refrigerated or frozen chicken strips in the air fryer basket, and cook for about 5 minutes until they are heated through. You may need to increase the time for frozen.

After you air fry frozen chicken tenders the first time, allow them to cool to room temperature, then place them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze for up to 3 months.

More Frozen Air Fryer Favorites

• Frozen Burgers in the Air Fryer
• Frozen Chicken Breast in the Air Fryer 
• Frozen Cod in the Air Fryer 
• Frozen Meatballs in the Air Fryer 
• Air Fryer Frozen Cauliflower 
• Air Fryer Frozen Corn Dog

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