How can I make gluten free chicken tenders crispy without using breadcrumbs?

To get crispy gluten free chicken tenders without breadcrumbs, you can use a combination of cornstarch or tapioca flour along with gluten free all-purpose flour. These ingredients create a light, crunchy coating when fried or baked. Dipping the chicken in buttermilk or an egg substitute before coating helps the flour stick and develop a crisp crust. Cooking in an air fryer or oven can also produce a crispy texture, though frying will usually give the best crunch.

Can I cook gluten free chicken tenders in an air fryer, and how do I do it?

Yes, gluten free chicken tenders can be cooked in an air fryer. Prepare the tenders by coating them with your preferred gluten free batter or flour mix. Arrange the pieces in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overcrowding. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Cooking in batches may be necessary for even crisping.

What are good substitutes for eggs or mayonnaise in gluten free chicken tenders for those with allergies?

For egg-free chicken tenders, you can replace eggs with a “chia egg” made by mixing 1 tablespoon ground chia seeds with 3 tablespoons water and letting it gel. Vegan mayonnaise or a homemade emulsion of whisked egg and neutral oil can substitute regular mayonnaise, helping the coating stick and keeping the chicken moist. These alternatives work well to maintain texture and flavor while accommodating allergies.

How should gluten free chicken tenders be stored and reheated to keep them tasty?

Gluten free chicken tenders are best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and retain some crispiness, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) or use an air fryer for 5–7 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the coating soggy. Proper reheating helps restore texture without drying out the chicken.

What sauces pair well with gluten free chicken tenders?

Gluten free chicken tenders pair well with a variety of sauces including honey mustard, spicy barbecue sauce, and sriracha mayonnaise. For those avoiding gluten, confirm that the sauces are certified gluten free, such as Huy Fong Foods sriracha. Dipping sauces with tangy or creamy flavors complement the crispy tenders and add an extra layer of taste.

Gluten Free Chicken Tenders That Are Crispy and Juicy

Name: gluten free chicken tenders
Prep time: 1 h 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound (about 8 pieces) chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips; ⅓ cup gluten free flour (such as rice flour-based blend); 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 2 teaspoons salt; 2 eggs; 1¼ cups gluten free breadcrumbs; 2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (optional for added flavor); Optional spices: dried parsley, cayenne pepper for extra heat; Oil spray or cooking oil for frying; 1 cup buttermilk; 2 teaspoons hot sauce; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground black pepper; 1½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour; ½ cup cornstarch or tapioca starch; 2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon ground black pepper; ½ tablespoon paprika; ½ tablespoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon baking powder

Description

🍗 Enjoy crispy, juicy gluten free chicken tenders that are easy to make at home, perfect for a satisfying and healthy meal.
🌿 This recipe offers versatility with different cooking methods and customizable seasonings to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound (about 8 pieces) chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips

⅓ cup gluten free flour (such as rice flour-based blend)

1 teaspoon paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

2 teaspoons salt

2 eggs

1¼ cups gluten free breadcrumbs

2 teaspoons Old Bay seasoning (optional for added flavor)

Optional spices: dried parsley, cayenne pepper for extra heat

Oil spray or cooking oil for frying

1 cup buttermilk

2 teaspoons hot sauce

½ teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon ground black pepper

1½ cups gluten-free all-purpose flour

½ cup cornstarch or tapioca starch

2 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon ground black pepper

½ tablespoon paprika

½ tablespoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions

Preheat your cooking method: Oven to 400°F (200°C) or oil to 350°F if frying.

Set up coating stations: Combine gluten free flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt in one shallow bowl. Beat eggs in a second bowl (or prepare flaxseed gel for egg-free). In a third bowl, mix gluten free breadcrumbs with Old Bay seasoning and optional spices.

Prepare chicken: Lightly season chicken tenders with salt and pepper.

Coat tenders: Dip each piece first in the flour mixture, then the eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb blend. Repeat for extra thickness if desired.

Arrange for cooking: Place coated tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet or cooling rack for baking. If frying, add tenders carefully to hot oil in small batches.

Cook: Bake for 15–20 minutes flipping halfway, or fry 3–5 minutes per side until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Drain and rest: Remove from heat and let tenders rest on paper towels if fried to drain excess oil.

Serve: Enjoy immediately with preferred dipping sauces or refrigerate leftovers properly.

Notes

🥄 Marinate chicken tenders in buttermilk and hot sauce for extra tenderness and flavor.
🔥 Use a wire rack when baking to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
🍳 Preheat your air fryer and lightly spray tenders with oil for better texture and browning.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinate Time: 1 hour
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Air Frying, Baking, Frying
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 tender
Calories: 186 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 500 mg
Fat: 4 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 18 g
Cholesterol: 60 mg

Keywords: Gluten Free Chicken Tenders, Crispy Chicken, Easy Chicken Recipe, Juicy Chicken Tenders