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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (breaded): Time & Temperature
400°F (205°C)temperature
12–14 mincook time
165°Finternal temp
How to do it
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (205°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange in a single layer with space between pieces — air needs to reach every side.
- Cook for 12–14 minutes.
- Flip (or shake the basket) halfway through cooking.
- Spray both sides lightly with oil so the breading browns.
Doneness: cook to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), measured at the thickest part with an instant-read thermometer. See all USDA safe minimum temperatures.
Pro tip: Don't overlap the tenders — cook in batches if needed.
Gear that makes this easier
Product suggestions below are editorial picks. See our affiliate disclosure.
- Instant-read meat thermometer — The only reliable way to know meat is safely done — every chart on this site assumes you check internal temperature.
- Air fryer parchment liners — Keeps sticky foods (wings, cookies, cinnamon rolls) from welding to the basket and makes cleanup a 10-second job.
- Oil sprayer / mister — A fine, even mist crisps breaded food without soaking it. Bottled sprays with propellant can damage nonstick coating.
- Silicone-tipped tongs — Flip food without scratching the basket's nonstick surface.