Looking for a delicious and healthy chicken recipe that’s full of bold flavors? These Chili Lime Chicken Tenders are just what you need! Coated in a spicy chili lime seasoning and cooked in the air fryer, these tenders come out perfectly crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. With just a few simple ingredients, including avocado oil, lime juice, and a blend of chili powder and cumin, this recipe is both quick and easy, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep.
Packed with protein, these chicken tenders are a flavorful addition to your healthy eating plan. Whether you enjoy them as a standalone snack, pair them with a salad, or use them as a topping for tacos or wraps, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re naturally gluten-free and low carb, perfect for a variety of dietary needs.

Ingredients:
- ½ tablespoon chili powder
- ¼ tablespoon ancho chili powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon oregano
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cilantro
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
- In a small bowl, combine all the dry spices: chili powder, ancho chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, garlic powder, and cilantro. Mix well to create the seasoning blend.
- Coat the chicken tenders with avocado oil, ensuring they are evenly covered. Then, drizzle lime juice over the chicken.
- Generously sprinkle the seasoning blend over the chicken tenders, tossing them to coat well on all sides.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 4 minutes. Flip the tenders and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and serve immediately.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Chili Lime Chicken Tenders are packed with bold, vibrant flavors, offering a perfect balance of spicy chili and refreshing lime. The air fryer cooking method gives them a crispy texture without the need for deep frying, making them a healthier option. With a simple list of ingredients, they come together quickly, making them an ideal choice for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The tender chicken combined with the tangy, zesty flavor will be a hit with the whole family.
Tips
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For an even deeper flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in the avocado oil, lime juice, and seasoning for 30 minutes to 2 hours before cooking.
- Use Fresh Lime: Fresh lime juice will give a more vibrant, zesty flavor than bottled lime juice.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of chili powder or omit the ancho chili powder.
Variations and Substitutions
- Protein: Swap the chicken tenders for chicken breasts, thighs, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Spices: Add paprika or cayenne pepper for extra heat, or switch out the cumin for smoked paprika for a smoky twist.
- Oil: If you don’t have avocado oil, you can substitute with olive oil or coconut oil.
FAQs
Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of using the air fryer? Yes! Preheat your oven to 425°F and bake the chicken tenders for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I use frozen chicken tenders? Yes, but you may need to increase the cooking time by a few minutes, depending on the thickness of the tenders.
Can I store leftover chicken tenders? Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer or oven to maintain the crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve these Chili Lime Chicken Tenders with a side of guacamole, salsa, or a fresh cucumber salad for a perfect meal.
- Pair them with cilantro-lime rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb option.
- They also make a great appetizer when served with dipping sauces like ranch or spicy mayo.
Enjoy your flavorful and crispy Chili Lime Chicken Tenders!
Chili Lime Chicken Tenders
4
servings5
minutes40
minutesIngredients
½ tablespoon chili powder
¼ tablespoon ancho chili powder
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon oregano
¾ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon cilantro
2 tablespoons avocado oil
1 tablespoon lime juice
Directions
- In a small bowl, combine all the dry spices: chili powder, ancho chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, garlic powder, and cilantro. Mix well to create the seasoning blend.
- Coat the chicken tenders with avocado oil, ensuring they are evenly covered. Then, drizzle lime juice over the chicken.
- Generously sprinkle the seasoning blend over the chicken tenders, tossing them to coat well on all sides.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Air fry for 4 minutes. Flip the tenders and cook for an additional 4 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Once cooked, remove from the air fryer and serve immediately.
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