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Emmas Dish

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Flavorful and Easy

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To make crispy air fryer chicken tenders, you need fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you will use: - 1 pound chicken tenderloins - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper The marinade brings great taste. The buttermilk makes the chicken juicy and tender. The spices add flavor. Here’s what you mix: - Buttermilk - Garlic powder - Onion powder - Paprika - Salt - Black pepper The breading gives the chicken that crispy outside. You will need: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for crunch) - Cooking spray or olive oil spray These ingredients make tasty chicken tenders. Feel free to get creative with spices! You can add your favorites to the marinade or breading for extra flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} Preparing the Buttermilk Mixture To make the buttermilk mixture, I use a large bowl. I combine 1 cup of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. I mix these until smooth. This blend adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy. Time and Temperature Recommendations I let the chicken tenderloins sit in the buttermilk for at least 1 hour. For even more flavor, marinating overnight works great too. I always store it in the fridge. This keeps the chicken safe and allows the flavors to soak in. Creating a Breading Station Next, I set up my breading station. I get two shallow dishes. In one, I put 1 cup of all-purpose flour. In the other, I add 1 cup of breadcrumbs, preferably panko. Panko gives the chicken a nice crunch. Proper Technique for Coating Once marinated, I take the chicken out, letting excess buttermilk drip off. I dredge each tender in flour, shaking off the extra. Then, I dip it back into the buttermilk before coating it with breadcrumbs. I press the crumbs into the chicken to make sure they stick well. Preheating the Air Fryer I preheat my air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is key for a crispy finish. Cooking Time and Temperature I spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. I place the chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. After that, I spray the tops of the chicken tenders with more cooking spray. I air fry them for 10-12 minutes. I flip them halfway through the cooking time. Achieving the Perfect Crisp I check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The tenders should look golden brown and crispy. After cooking, I let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy when I serve them. How Long to Marinate for Best Flavor For the best taste, marinate your chicken tenders for at least one hour. This allows the buttermilk to soak in. If you have the time, marinating overnight gives deeper flavor. Optional Seasonings to Enhance Taste You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some dried herbs for extra flavor. Try thyme or oregano in the buttermilk mix. These small changes can make a big difference. Avoiding Soggy Tenders To keep your chicken tenders crispy, do not overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches if needed. This allows hot air to circulate properly and makes everything crisp. Cooking in Batches If you have many tenders, cook them in two or three rounds. Keep the first batch warm in the oven on low heat. This way, all your tenders stay hot and crispy. Ideal Dipping Sauces Serve your crispy chicken tenders with tasty sauces. Honey mustard, ranch, and BBQ sauce are all great choices. They add flavor and make eating fun. Garnishing for an Appealing Plate To make your dish look great, add fresh parsley. A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness. Serve the tenders on a nice platter for a beautiful meal. Pro Tips Marinate Longer for Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken tenders overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful bite. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They create a light and crispy texture that elevates the chicken tenders. Don't Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure to place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that your tenders are both safe to eat and juicy. {{image_2}} You can switch up the spice blends for fun. Try using Cajun seasoning for a kick. Or go for Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a fresh taste. You can also mix in some lemon zest for a bright flavor. For the marinade, you can infuse different flavors. Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. You could also use honey for a sweet touch. Try adding some mustard for a tangy zing. If you want a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of regular flour. It gives a nice nutty flavor. You can also try crushed cornflakes for a crunchy coating. Adding Parmesan cheese to your breadcrumbs makes a rich taste. Mix it with the breadcrumbs before coating the chicken. This adds a savory layer to the tenders. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier choice. To keep your crispy chicken tenders fresh, follow these tips: - Best Practices for Refrigeration: Place the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing. - Reheating Tips for Maintaining Crispiness: When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and delicious. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option: - How to Freeze for Future Meals: Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out any air before sealing. They can last for up to 3 months. - Thawing Methods: To thaw, place the frozen tenders in the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Just be careful not to cook them. Once thawed, reheat them in the air fryer for best results. To check if your chicken tenders are done, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you don't have a thermometer, look for a golden brown color. The juices should run clear, not pink, when you cut into them. Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. However, you will need to adjust your cooking time. Frozen tenders may take 5 to 10 minutes longer to cook. Make sure they still reach the safe temperature of 165°F (75°C). You might need to check them a bit more often to avoid overcooking. To reheat leftover chicken tenders, use the air fryer or an oven. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps keep them crispy. If using an oven, set it to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Always check that they heat evenly. In this blog post, I covered how to make delicious chicken tenders. We explored the key ingredients, marinating techniques, and step-by-step cooking in an air fryer. I shared tips to enhance flavor and presented ideas for serving. By following these guidelines, you can achieve crispy, tasty tenders that impress. Remember, experimenting with spices or coatings can make your dish unique. Enjoy your cooking and savor each bite.

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Are you ready for crispy, juicy chicken tenders that are easy to make? In this blog post, I’ll walk you through my favorite air fryer recipe for chicken tenders that pack a punch of flavor. With simple ingredients and clear steps, you’ll learn how to marinate, bread, and cook them to crispy perfection. Let’s dive in so you can impress your family and friends with these tasty bites!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavorful Marinade: The buttermilk marinade infuses the chicken with moisture and flavor, making each bite juicy and delicious.
  2. Crispy Texture: Using panko breadcrumbs ensures a delightful crunch that elevates the chicken tenders to a whole new level.
  3. Quick Cooking: The air fryer cooks these tenders quickly, providing a healthier option without sacrificing taste or texture.
  4. Versatile Dipping: These chicken tenders pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces, making them a hit for any gathering or meal.

Ingredients

To make crispy air fryer chicken tenders, you need fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you will use:

Main Ingredients

– 1 pound chicken tenderloins

– 1 cup buttermilk

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon paprika

– 1 teaspoon salt

– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Marinade Ingredients

The marinade brings great taste. The buttermilk makes the chicken juicy and tender. The spices add flavor. Here’s what you mix:

– Buttermilk

– Garlic powder

– Onion powder

– Paprika

– Salt

– Black pepper

Breading Components

The breading gives the chicken that crispy outside. You will need:

– 1 cup all-purpose flour

– 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for crunch)

– Cooking spray or olive oil spray

These ingredients make tasty chicken tenders. Feel free to get creative with spices! You can add your favorites to the marinade or breading for extra flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinating the Chicken

Preparing the Buttermilk Mixture

To make the buttermilk mixture, I use a large bowl. I combine 1 cup of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. I mix these until smooth. This blend adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy.

Time and Temperature Recommendations

I let the chicken tenderloins sit in the buttermilk for at least 1 hour. For even more flavor, marinating overnight works great too. I always store it in the fridge. This keeps the chicken safe and allows the flavors to soak in.

Setting Up for Breading

Creating a Breading Station

Next, I set up my breading station. I get two shallow dishes. In one, I put 1 cup of all-purpose flour. In the other, I add 1 cup of breadcrumbs, preferably panko. Panko gives the chicken a nice crunch.

Proper Technique for Coating

Once marinated, I take the chicken out, letting excess buttermilk drip off. I dredge each tender in flour, shaking off the extra. Then, I dip it back into the buttermilk before coating it with breadcrumbs. I press the crumbs into the chicken to make sure they stick well.

Air Frying the Chicken

Preheating the Air Fryer

I preheat my air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is key for a crispy finish.

Cooking Time and Temperature

I spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. I place the chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. After that, I spray the tops of the chicken tenders with more cooking spray. I air fry them for 10-12 minutes. I flip them halfway through the cooking time.

Achieving the Perfect Crisp

I check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The tenders should look golden brown and crispy. After cooking, I let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy when I serve them.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Marinate

How Long to Marinate for Best Flavor

For the best taste, marinate your chicken tenders for at least one hour. This allows the buttermilk to soak in. If you have the time, marinating overnight gives deeper flavor.

Optional Seasonings to Enhance Taste

You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some dried herbs for extra flavor. Try thyme or oregano in the buttermilk mix. These small changes can make a big difference.

Air Fryer Best Practices

Avoiding Soggy Tenders

To keep your chicken tenders crispy, do not overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches if needed. This allows hot air to circulate properly and makes everything crisp.

Cooking in Batches

If you have many tenders, cook them in two or three rounds. Keep the first batch warm in the oven on low heat. This way, all your tenders stay hot and crispy.

Presentation and Serving Suggestions

Ideal Dipping Sauces

Serve your crispy chicken tenders with tasty sauces. Honey mustard, ranch, and BBQ sauce are all great choices. They add flavor and make eating fun.

Garnishing for an Appealing Plate

To make your dish look great, add fresh parsley. A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness. Serve the tenders on a nice platter for a beautiful meal.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate Longer for Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken tenders overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful bite.
  2. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They create a light and crispy texture that elevates the chicken tenders.
  3. Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure to place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results.
  4. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that your tenders are both safe to eat and juicy.

Variations

Seasoning Alternatives

You can switch up the spice blends for fun. Try using Cajun seasoning for a kick. Or go for Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a fresh taste. You can also mix in some lemon zest for a bright flavor.

For the marinade, you can infuse different flavors. Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. You could also use honey for a sweet touch. Try adding some mustard for a tangy zing.

Alternative Coatings

If you want a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of regular flour. It gives a nice nutty flavor. You can also try crushed cornflakes for a crunchy coating.

Adding Parmesan cheese to your breadcrumbs makes a rich taste. Mix it with the breadcrumbs before coating the chicken. This adds a savory layer to the tenders. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier choice.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your crispy chicken tenders fresh, follow these tips:

– Best Practices for Refrigeration: Place the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing.

– Reheating Tips for Maintaining Crispiness: When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and delicious. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

Freezing Chicken Tenders

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option:

– How to Freeze for Future Meals: Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out any air before sealing. They can last for up to 3 months.

– Thawing Methods: To thaw, place the frozen tenders in the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Just be careful not to cook them. Once thawed, reheat them in the air fryer for best results.

FAQs

How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?

To check if your chicken tenders are done, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you don’t have a thermometer, look for a golden brown color. The juices should run clear, not pink, when you cut into them.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. However, you will need to adjust your cooking time. Frozen tenders may take 5 to 10 minutes longer to cook. Make sure they still reach the safe temperature of 165°F (75°C). You might need to check them a bit more often to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover chicken tenders?

To reheat leftover chicken tenders, use the air fryer or an oven. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps keep them crispy. If using an oven, set it to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Always check that they heat evenly.

In this blog post, I covered how to make delicious chicken tenders. We explored the key ingredients, marinating techniques, and step-by-step cooking in an air fryer. I shared tips to enhance flavor and presented ideas for serving.

By following these guidelines, you can achieve crispy, tasty tenders that impress. Remember, experimenting with spices or coatings can make your dish unique. Enjoy your cooking and savor each bit

To make crispy air fryer chicken tenders, you need fresh and simple ingredients. Here’s what you will use: - 1 pound chicken tenderloins - 1 cup buttermilk - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - 1 teaspoon salt - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper The marinade brings great taste. The buttermilk makes the chicken juicy and tender. The spices add flavor. Here’s what you mix: - Buttermilk - Garlic powder - Onion powder - Paprika - Salt - Black pepper The breading gives the chicken that crispy outside. You will need: - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko works best for crunch) - Cooking spray or olive oil spray These ingredients make tasty chicken tenders. Feel free to get creative with spices! You can add your favorites to the marinade or breading for extra flavor. {{ingredient_image_1}} Preparing the Buttermilk Mixture To make the buttermilk mixture, I use a large bowl. I combine 1 cup of buttermilk with 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1 teaspoon of paprika, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. I mix these until smooth. This blend adds flavor and helps keep the chicken juicy. Time and Temperature Recommendations I let the chicken tenderloins sit in the buttermilk for at least 1 hour. For even more flavor, marinating overnight works great too. I always store it in the fridge. This keeps the chicken safe and allows the flavors to soak in. Creating a Breading Station Next, I set up my breading station. I get two shallow dishes. In one, I put 1 cup of all-purpose flour. In the other, I add 1 cup of breadcrumbs, preferably panko. Panko gives the chicken a nice crunch. Proper Technique for Coating Once marinated, I take the chicken out, letting excess buttermilk drip off. I dredge each tender in flour, shaking off the extra. Then, I dip it back into the buttermilk before coating it with breadcrumbs. I press the crumbs into the chicken to make sure they stick well. Preheating the Air Fryer I preheat my air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is key for a crispy finish. Cooking Time and Temperature I spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. I place the chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they do not overlap. After that, I spray the tops of the chicken tenders with more cooking spray. I air fry them for 10-12 minutes. I flip them halfway through the cooking time. Achieving the Perfect Crisp I check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The tenders should look golden brown and crispy. After cooking, I let them rest for a few minutes. This helps keep them juicy when I serve them. How Long to Marinate for Best Flavor For the best taste, marinate your chicken tenders for at least one hour. This allows the buttermilk to soak in. If you have the time, marinating overnight gives deeper flavor. Optional Seasonings to Enhance Taste You can add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or some dried herbs for extra flavor. Try thyme or oregano in the buttermilk mix. These small changes can make a big difference. Avoiding Soggy Tenders To keep your chicken tenders crispy, do not overcrowd the air fryer. Cook in batches if needed. This allows hot air to circulate properly and makes everything crisp. Cooking in Batches If you have many tenders, cook them in two or three rounds. Keep the first batch warm in the oven on low heat. This way, all your tenders stay hot and crispy. Ideal Dipping Sauces Serve your crispy chicken tenders with tasty sauces. Honey mustard, ranch, and BBQ sauce are all great choices. They add flavor and make eating fun. Garnishing for an Appealing Plate To make your dish look great, add fresh parsley. A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness. Serve the tenders on a nice platter for a beautiful meal. Pro Tips Marinate Longer for Flavor: For the best flavor, marinate the chicken tenders overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply into the meat, resulting in a more flavorful bite. Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch, opt for panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They create a light and crispy texture that elevates the chicken tenders. Don't Overcrowd the Basket: Make sure to place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer. Overcrowding can lead to uneven cooking and less crispy results. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees that your tenders are both safe to eat and juicy. {{image_2}} You can switch up the spice blends for fun. Try using Cajun seasoning for a kick. Or go for Italian herbs like oregano and basil for a fresh taste. You can also mix in some lemon zest for a bright flavor. For the marinade, you can infuse different flavors. Add a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. You could also use honey for a sweet touch. Try adding some mustard for a tangy zing. If you want a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of regular flour. It gives a nice nutty flavor. You can also try crushed cornflakes for a crunchy coating. Adding Parmesan cheese to your breadcrumbs makes a rich taste. Mix it with the breadcrumbs before coating the chicken. This adds a savory layer to the tenders. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier choice. To keep your crispy chicken tenders fresh, follow these tips: - Best Practices for Refrigeration: Place the cooled chicken tenders in an airtight container. This helps prevent moisture loss. Store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cool before sealing. - Reheating Tips for Maintaining Crispiness: When you're ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them in the air fryer. Set the temperature to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and delicious. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option: - How to Freeze for Future Meals: Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. Squeeze out any air before sealing. They can last for up to 3 months. - Thawing Methods: To thaw, place the frozen tenders in the fridge overnight. For a quicker method, you can use the microwave. Just be careful not to cook them. Once thawed, reheat them in the air fryer for best results. To check if your chicken tenders are done, use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the tender. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety. If you don't have a thermometer, look for a golden brown color. The juices should run clear, not pink, when you cut into them. Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. However, you will need to adjust your cooking time. Frozen tenders may take 5 to 10 minutes longer to cook. Make sure they still reach the safe temperature of 165°F (75°C). You might need to check them a bit more often to avoid overcooking. To reheat leftover chicken tenders, use the air fryer or an oven. Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes. This helps keep them crispy. If using an oven, set it to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 10 to 15 minutes. Always check that they heat evenly. In this blog post, I covered how to make delicious chicken tenders. We explored the key ingredients, marinating techniques, and step-by-step cooking in an air fryer. I shared tips to enhance flavor and presented ideas for serving. By following these guidelines, you can achieve crispy, tasty tenders that impress. Remember, experimenting with spices or coatings can make your dish unique. Enjoy your cooking and savor each bite.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Deliciously crispy chicken tenders made in the air fryer for a healthier option.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 spray cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions
 

  • In a large bowl, combine the buttermilk, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  • Add the chicken tenderloins to the buttermilk mixture, making sure they are completely submerged. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour in the refrigerator (or up to overnight for deeper flavor).
  • In a shallow dish, set up your breading station by placing the flour and breadcrumbs in separate dishes.
  • Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk marinade, allowing the excess buttermilk to drip off.
  • Dredge each tender in flour until fully coated, shaking off the excess.
  • Dip the floured chicken back into the buttermilk, then coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing them into the chicken to adhere well.
  • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
  • Lightly spray the basket of the air fryer with cooking spray. Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket, making sure they do not overlap.
  • Spray the tops of the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray or olive oil.
  • Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
  • Remove the tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Keyword air fryer, chicken tenders, crispy, healthy

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