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Air Fryer Naked Chicken Tenders: Your New Favorite Low-Carb Keto Dinner

Keto Air Fryer Naked Chicken Tenders Close-up of a hand holding a crispy keto chicken tender, with more tenders on a white plate in the background, taken in a clean, well-lit kitchen."
Cooking Method
Cuisine
Difficulty Beginner
Time
Prep Time: 5 mins Cook Time: 10 mins Rest Time: 5 mins Total Time: 20 mins
Cooking Temp 400  F
Servings 4
Estimated Cost $  10
Calories 200
Best Season Spring, Autumn, Summer, Winter, Fall
Dietary Keto-Friendly
Description

Crispy, juicy Keto Air Fryer Naked Chicken Tenders that are perfect for a low-carb, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly meal in just 15 minutes!

Ingredients
  • 1 to 1 1 ½ pounds of chicken tenders
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil or avocado oil (for that heart-healthy fat)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
  1. Preheat Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and preheat for at least 5 minutes. This ensures a crispy texture.
  2. Prepare Chicken: In a large dish, arrange the chicken tenders. Drizzle the tenders with the avocado oil, ensuring they’re well coated.
  3. Mix Seasonings: In a small bowl, combine the smoked paprika, thyme, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Stir until the spices are evenly blended.
  4. Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken tenders. Toss the chicken until each tender is thoroughly coated with the spice blend.
  5. Air Fry: Place the seasoned chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer (work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding). Air fry at 400°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Cook until the chicken tenders reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  6. Serve: Let the tenders rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. Enjoy them with a keto-friendly dipping sauce like ranch, avocado mayo, or sugar-free BBQ sauce!

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4


Amount Per Serving
Calories 200kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 12g19%
Sodium 750mg32%
Total Carbohydrate 1g1%
Protein 22g44%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

As a mom juggling work and kids, I know how crucial it is to have quick, healthy recipes that don’t compromise on flavor. These Keto Air Fryer Naked Chicken Tenders are my go-to for those busy weeknights when I need something everyone will enjoy, without wrecking my keto progress. They’re crispy, juicy, and versatile enough to pair with just about anything. Plus, they’re a hit with even the pickiest eaters—trust me, I’ve tested them on my own crew!