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Air Fryer Witch Finger Chicken Tenders Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.8 from 99 reviews
  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Snack
  • Method: Air Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Description

Crunchy and spooky Air Fryer Witch Finger Chicken Tenders, perfect for Halloween or any fun meal. Tender chicken strips are coated in seasoned panko breadcrumbs, topped with almond “fingernails,” and air fried to a crispy golden perfection, served best with marinara dipping sauce.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb chicken tenders or breasts, sliced into finger-shaped strips

Breading

  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Finishing Touch

  • 12-16 whole almonds (for fingernails)
  • Cooking spray or oil, for spraying basket and tenders

Instructions

  1. Prepare Chicken: Slice the chicken into finger-shaped strips and season lightly with salt and pepper. This creates the base shape for the witch finger tenders.
  2. Set Up Breading Stations: Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper for seasoning.
  3. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken strip first in the flour to coat lightly, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the seasoned breadcrumb mixture ensuring an even coating for maximum crispiness.
  4. Add Almond ‘Nails’: Press one whole almond onto the tip of each breaded chicken strip to mimic a fingernail, enhancing the spooky and fun presentation.
  5. Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes to ensure even cooking.
  6. Prepare for Cooking: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or lightly brush with oil to prevent sticking. Similarly, spray the chicken tenders lightly to promote browning and crisping.
  7. Air Fry the Tenders: Place the chicken fingers in a single layer in the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispness on all sides.
  8. Serve: Once golden and cooked through, transfer the witch finger tenders to a serving plate. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce to complement the flavor.

Notes

  • For best results, slice chicken tenders into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
  • Adjust seasoning in the breadcrumb mix to your taste preference.
  • Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation and crispiness.
  • If you prefer spicier fingers, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Serve immediately for the crispiest texture, as the coating can soften over time.
  • To keep tenders warm, place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until all are cooked.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 4 fingers)
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 420 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

Find it online: https://emilyquickdinners.com/air-fryer-witch-finger-chicken-tenders-recipe/