These gluten free chicken tenders are perfectly seasoned and cooked until golden and crispy. Whether you make them in the air fryer or oven baked, they turn out delicious every time. With a crunchy coating and juicy center, these gluten-free chicken tenders are a family favorite.
You’ll love making this for a quick meal or snack, made with simple, naturally gluten-free ingredients. The air fryer cuts down on oil, making it a cleaner option without sacrificing flavor or crunch.
Making Gluten Free Chicken Recipe
Using gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes gives these chicken strips a crispy coating without wheat. Mixing seasonings adds flavor so that you won’t miss the traditional breading.
This simple recipe uses minimal ingredients, similar to making chicken nuggets and reheated chicken drumsticks, and is perfect for anyone looking for a cleaner, homemade option.
Can I Oven Bake this Recipe
Just like my oven-baked BBQ wings and oven-baked riced cauliflower, oven-baking is a great option if you don’t have an air fryer or want to cook a larger batch of gluten-free chicken strips at once. The dry heat of the oven helps create a crispy, golden coating while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
Baking is a hands-off method, making it easier to prepare sides or clean up while your chicken cooks.
Cooking Breaded Chicken Breast
If you prefer whole chicken breasts instead of strips, this recipe works just as well. Coat the chicken breast in the same gluten-free breading, then air fry or bake it until fully cooked. It’s a great way to make a healthier version of crispy chicken for sandwiches, salads, or a main dish.
How To Make and Air Fry the Best Gluten Free Chicken Strips
Make and fry chicken strips with a crispy, flavorful, juicy coating. This easy recipe delivers perfectly golden strips using simple, gluten-free ingredients for a delicious, healthier twist on a classic favorite.
Kitchen Gadgets:
- Air Fryer: Cooks the chicken strips to crispy perfection with minimal oil.
- Large Bowl: Used for mixing the eggs and seasonings to coat the chicken.
- Chopping Board: A sturdy surface for slicing the chicken into strips.
- Knife: Helps cut the chicken breasts evenly for uniform cooking.
- Tongs: Flipping and removing the chicken is easy and mess-free.
- Whisk: Blends the eggs and seasonings for an even coating.
Ingredients:
- Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a crunchy coating. You can also use crushed cornflakes for extra crispiness.
- Eggs: Helps the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken for a perfect coating.
- Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for easy slicing into strips.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Lightly brushing or spraying the chicken helps it crisp up while air frying.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds a hint of smoky flavor and enhances the color of the breading.
- Garlic Powder: Gives a delicious, savory taste to the coating.
- Onion Powder: Adds a subtle sweetness and extra depth of flavor.
- Salt: Brings out the natural flavors of the chicken and seasoning.
- Black Pepper: Adds a little kick and balances the seasoning mix.
*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.
FULL INSTRUCTIONS WITH STEPS FOR GLUTEN FREE CHICKEN TENDERS
First Step: Gather Your Ingredients
Start by collecting everything you need—chicken breast, breadcrumbs, eggs, seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and EVO oil for spraying. Preheat your air fryer to 430 Fahrenheit (220 Celsius).
Second Step: Prepare the Coatings
In one bowl, whisk the eggs for the wet coating. In another, mix breadcrumbs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful breading. This two-step coating ensures the chicken fries turn out crispy and delicious.
Third Step: Cut & Coat the Chicken
Slice the chicken breast into thin strips, similar to fries. Dip each piece into the egg mixture, then coat it in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Set the coated strips aside on a plate, ready for air frying.
Fourth Step: Prep the Air Fryer & Cook
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with EVO oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken strips in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for even cooking. Give the coated chicken a light spray of EVO oil for extra crispiness before cooking. Air Fry for 6 minutes.
Fifth Step: Flip for Even Crispiness
After 6 minutes, use tongs to flip the chicken fries to ensure they crisp up evenly on both sides. Air Fry for another 6 minutes. They’re ready to enjoy once they turn golden brown and perfectly crunchy.
TRICKS AND TIPS:
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give the chicken strips space to cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
- Use a wire rack for extra crispiness: If baking, instead of air frying, place the chicken on a rack over a parchment paper to prevent sogginess.
- Spray lightly with oil: A quick spray of olive oil helps create a golden, crunchy crust without deep frying.
- Double bread for extra crunch: Dip the chicken in the egg and gluten free bread crumbs twice for a thicker, crispier coating.
- Let the chicken rest before serving: This helps lock in the juices and keeps the meat tender inside.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What to Serve With Crispy Gluten-Free Chicken Strips?
Serve them with green bean casserole or pork scotch fillet for a wholesome option. Try classic choices like homemade buffalo ranch or your favorite dipping sauce like BBQ sauce. If you’re making it a complete meal, pair the strips with a fresh salad or onion rings.
To store gluten-free chicken tenders, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days to keep them fresh. When reheating, use an air fryer or oven to maintain crispiness instead of microwaving, which can make them soggy.
Can I Freeze Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can freeze gluten-free chicken tenders for later use. After cooking, let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will keep for up to 3 months—reheat in the air fryer or oven for best results.
More Clean Eating Recipes
Looking for more delicious and wholesome meals? Explore these clean eating recipes for easy, satisfying meals made with simple, whole foods like our chicken and dumplings, a perfect blend of creamy soup, hearty veggies, and tender, fluffy dumplings ideal for any cozy family gathering.
If you want to add a pop of color and flavor to your dishes, this colorful sweet and sour pickled radish recipe is exactly what you need. Homemade Italian spices bring delicious flavors to all your favorite dishes.
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Chicken Strips Gluten Free in Air Fryer
Equipment
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Breadcrumbs
- 2 Pieces Eggs
- 2 Pieces Chicken Breasts cut into thin strips lengthwise
- 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil EVO for spraying
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt
- 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper
Video
Instructions
- Start by collecting everything you need—chicken breast, breadcrumbs, eggs, seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and EVO oil for spraying. Preheat your air fryer to 430 Fahrenheit (220 Celsius).
- In one bowl, whisk the eggs for the wet coating. In another, mix breadcrumbs with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper for a flavorful breading. This two-step coating ensures the chicken fries turn out crispy and delicious.
- Slice the chicken breast into thin strips, similar to fries. Dip each piece into the egg mixture, then coat it in the seasoned breadcrumbs. Set the coated strips aside on a plate, ready for air frying.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with EVO oil to prevent sticking. Arrange the chicken strips in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for even cooking. Give the coated chicken a light spray of EVO oil for extra crispiness before cooking. Air Fry for 6 minutes.
- After 6 minutes, use tongs to flip the chicken fries to ensure they crisp up evenly on both sides. Air Fry for another 6 minutes. They're ready to enjoy once they turn golden brown and perfectly crunchy.
Notes
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer: Give the chicken strips space to cook evenly and get crispy on all sides.
- Use a wire rack for extra crispiness: If baking, instead of air frying, place the chicken on a rack over a parchment paper to prevent sogginess.
- Spray lightly with oil: A quick spray of olive oil helps create a golden, crunchy crust without deep frying.
- Double bread for extra crunch: Dip the chicken in the egg and gluten free bread crumbs twice for a thicker, crispier coating.
- Let the chicken rest before serving: This helps lock in the juices and keeps the meat tender inside.
Nutrition
Disclaimer
Please note that nutrient values are estimates only. Variations can occur due to product availability and manner of food preparation. Nutrition may vary based on methods of origin, preparation, freshness of ingredients, and other factors.
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