Description
This Air Fried Chicken Tender Salad with Honey Mustard is a quick and healthy meal featuring crispy air-fried chicken tenders served atop a fresh mix of greens and vegetables, all drizzled with a tangy, homemade honey mustard dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the crunch of panko-coated chicken with a vibrant salad and a sweet, zesty dressing for a satisfying, flavorful dish in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil spray (or cooking spray)
Salad
- 6 cups mixed greens (such as lettuce, spinach, arugula, or a spring mix)
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/2 avocado, sliced
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
Dressing
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Tenders: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the right temperature for cooking the chicken evenly and getting that perfect crispy crust.
- Set Up the Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with whole wheat flour, a second with whisked eggs, and a third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This setup will help you coat the chicken tenders thoroughly and consistently.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the flour, shaking off excess, then into the eggs, and finally press them into the breadcrumb mixture to fully coat. Make sure the panko sticks well to create a crispy outer layer after air frying.
- Prepare the Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer without overcrowding; cook in batches if necessary for even crisping.
- Air Fry the Chicken: Cook the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides become golden brown and crispy. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. Once done, set them aside to rest briefly.
- Make the Honey Mustard Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar (or lemon juice), olive oil, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust sweetness or acidity as desired to balance the flavor.
- Assemble the Salad: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced cucumber, chopped tomato, red onion, avocado slices, and shredded carrots. Toss gently to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Add the Chicken: Slice the air-fried chicken tenders into strips and arrange them on top of the prepared salad.
- Dress and Garnish: Drizzle the honey mustard dressing evenly over the salad and chicken. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or parsley on top if you like for a fresh herbal note.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your crispy, flavorful, and healthy Air Fried Chicken Tender Salad with Honey Mustard right away for the best texture and taste.
Notes
- You can substitute whole wheat flour with all-purpose flour if preferred.
- For gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour alternatives.
- Adjust honey and vinegar in the dressing to suit your sweetness and tang preference.
- Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model; always confirm chicken is cooked through with a thermometer.
- This salad is best served fresh to maintain the crispness of the chicken and veggies.
