Irresistible Air Fried Chicken Tender Salad Recipe

There’s something magical about a plate of Air Fried Chicken Tender Salad, where crispy chicken meets vibrant greens. Imagine biting into a succulent, golden piece of chicken, perfectly seasoned and air-fried to crispy perfection, surrounded by a colorful medley of fresh vegetables. It’s like a party in your mouth, and everyone’s invited.

You know that feeling when you get home after a long day, and the fridge looks like it has been ransacked by a band of hungry raccoons? That’s when this salad swoops in like a culinary superhero. Ideal for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it promises an explosion of flavors that will have you dancing in your kitchen.

I remember the first time I made this salad; my kids were skeptical at first. But after one bite of the tender chicken and zesty dressing, they were raving fans!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust according to your crowd size.

• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for robust flavor; garlic lovers will thank you!

• Olive Oil: A drizzle adds richness; opt for extra virgin for better flavor.

• Mixed Greens: A combination of spinach and arugula adds texture and nutrition.

• Your Favorite Veggies: Cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers add color and crunch.

• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika—these elevate the flavor profile wonderfully.

• Creamy Dressing: Store-bought or homemade; either way, it’s the finishing touch that ties everything together.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Air Fried Chicken Tender Salad

Prepare the Chicken: Start by cutting chicken breasts into tender-sized strips. Season them with salt, pepper, and paprika for that extra zing.

Preheat the Air Fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Allow it to preheat for about 5 minutes while you prep your salad.

Cook the Chicken Tenders: Place the seasoned chicken strips in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook them for 10-12 minutes until they are golden brown and crisp.

Toss Your Greens: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with chopped veggies like cucumbers and cherry tomatoes for added freshness.

Add the Tenders & Dressing: Once cooked, let the chicken cool slightly before adding it on top of your salad. Drizzle your favorite dressing over everything.

Serve & Enjoy!: Toss gently to combine all components together. Serve immediately while everything is fresh and delightful.

Now you’ve got yourself an Air Fried Chicken Tender Salad that’s not just delicious but also easy enough to whip up anytime hunger strikes!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

To achieve perfect results, start by marinating the chicken tenders while preheating your air fryer. Cook them until golden brown, then toss them with fresh greens for an unforgettable dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize your salad by adding seasonal veggies or swapping out dressings. A sprinkle of nuts or seeds can elevate both flavor and texture.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, warm the chicken tenders in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Cooking this Air Fried Chicken Tender Salad reminds me of that one summer barbecue when I decided to impress my friends with my “chef skills.” Spoiler alert: they were impressed, but mostly because of the double-dipping sauce I made!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, but ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and cooking.

What type of dressing pairs well with this salad?

A tangy vinaigrette complements the crispy chicken perfectly.

How can I make this salad low-carb?

Simply skip any croutons or sugary dressings for a delicious low-carb option.

Print

Air Fried Chicken Tender Salad

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Air Fried Chicken Tender Salad is a delightful blend of crispy chicken and fresh greens that transforms mealtime into a joyous occasion. With perfectly seasoned, air-fried chicken tenders atop a colorful array of vegetables, this salad is not only visually appealing but also bursting with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on taste. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and vibrant colors that make this dish an instant favorite for family and guests alike.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz)
• 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach and arugula)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp paprika
• ¼ cup creamy dressing (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions

1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the chicken breasts into tender-sized strips. In a bowl, combine chicken, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and paprika; mix well.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 10-12 minutes until golden brown and crispy.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and bell pepper.
5. Once the chicken is cooked, let it cool slightly before adding it on top of the salad. Drizzle with your favorite dressing.
6. Toss gently to combine everything. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 salad (approx. 350g)
• Calories: 420
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 7g
• Protein: 35g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Marinate the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor. Customize the salad by adding seasonal vegetables or nuts for extra texture. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days; reheat chicken in the air fryer to restore crispiness.