Creating Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is simple if you follow these steps:

1. Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, soak the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk for at least 30 minutes. This helps tenderize the meat.
2. Prepare Coating: In another bowl, mix the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
3. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
4. Coat Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk, letting any excess liquid drip off. Dredge it in the flour mixture until fully coated.
5. Spray with Oil: Lightly spray or brush the coated chicken tenders with cooking oil. This will help achieve that crispy texture.
6. Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking.
7. Cook: Air fry the chicken tenders for 10 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure both sides are crispy.
8. Check for Doneness: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). If not, return to the air fryer for an additional 2–5 minutes.
9. Let Rest: Once cooked, allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps retain juices.

By following these steps, you’ll achieve perfectly crispy chicken tenders that are full of flavor and texture.