Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders (Popeyes Copycat)
User Reviews
5
-
Prep Time
5 mins
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Cook Time
10 mins
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Total Time
15 mins
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Servings
4
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Calories
139 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders (Popeyes Copycat)
Description
Air Fryer Blackened Chicken Tenders do not require breading but rely on a dry spice rub combining paprika, garlic and onion powders, cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for heat. The tenders are patted dry, sprayed lightly with oil, and coated evenly with seasoning. Cooking at high heat in the air fryer crisps the exterior, sealing in juices for tender meat inside.
The method yields tenders with a smoky, peppery crust and moist, tender chicken beneath. It replicates the spicy and aromatic qualities of a popular fast food blackened tender, achieved with home kitchen equipment.
This preparation suits quick weeknight dinners, snacks, or serving with sauces, in wraps, or salads where a spiced chicken component is desired. The leftover tenders also reheat well.
Alternate cooking options include baking in a 400°F oven for about 15-18 minutes or pan-searing over medium-high heat, making the recipe adaptable to kitchen tools and preferences.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. chicken tenderloin
- 1/2 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp each: paprika
- 2 tsp each: garlic powder
- 2 tsp each: onion powder
- 1 tsp each: cumin
- 1 tsp each: oregano
- 1 tsp each: salt
- 1 tsp each: black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes optional for heat
Instructions
- Preheat the air fryer to 390 degrees F.
- In a small bowl, mix together all the spices for the blackened chicken.
- Pat chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel and spray with cooking spray. Then toss evenly with the seasoning mix.
- Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the tenders in the basket in a single layer. Cook for 4-5 minutes, then flip and cook for another 4-5 minutes or until cooked through. Set on a plate to rest for 5 minutes before cutting.
Notes
- For oven cooking, bake tenders at 400°F for 15-18 minutes until cooked through.
- On the stovetop, cook chicken in a hot skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until done.
- Use cooking spray to promote crisping and prevent sticking during air frying.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4Serving
Amount Per Serving
Calories 139 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 /4 of tenders (110g) | |
| Calories | 139kcal | 7% |
| Protein | 28g | 56% |
| Fat | 3g | 5% |
| Saturated Fat | -2g | -10% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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