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If you’re after something crunchy, sticky, and packed with flavour — without going anywhere near the takeaway menu — these are the tenders.
These High Protein Sweet Chilli Chicken Tenders serve up 54g of protein per portion, coated in a golden cornflake crust and drizzled with a glossy, sweet-heat glaze. Think KFC vibes but way leaner, way higher in protein, and on the table in under 20 minutes. Weeknight winner, gym snack, or meal prep hero — let’s cook.
Why you'll love this recipe
54g protein per portion – yes, seriously.
Under 500 calories – comfort food with the stats to back it up.
Air fryer magic = crispy coating without deep frying.
Sweet + spicy glaze that clings to every bite.
Ready in less than 20 minutes – no faff, all flavour.
Perfect high-protein snack, lunch, or post-workout fuel.
Fakeaway vibes without the guilt (or delivery fees).
Family-friendly: just dial back the sriracha for a milder version.
These Air Fryer Sweet Chilli Chicken Tenders are crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and drenched in a sticky glaze that tastes way more indulgent than it is. Add them to wraps, rice bowls, or just eat them straight off the tray (no judgement).
Own photo
Recipe Info
10 minutes
20 minutes
2
Air Fryer
Air Fryer Sweet Chilli Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
For the tenders
300g chicken breast, cut into strips
1 egg, whisked
80g cornflakes, crushed
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp sesame seeds
For the glaze
2 tbsp sweet chilli sauce
1 tbsp sriracha sauce
Instructions
- Crush the cornflakes in a bowl and mix with smoked paprika.
Season the chicken strips, then dip each one into the whisked egg, followed by the cornflake mixture.
Place the coated chicken strips in the air fryer and cook at 180°C for 8–9 minutes, turning halfway.
While the chicken cooks, combine the sweet chilli sauce and sriracha in a pan. Warm gently for 1–2 minutes until thick and glossy.
Once the tenders are crispy and cooked through, remove from the air fryer. Drizzle with the glaze, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve immediately.
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CALORIES
494
PROTEIN
54g
These Air Fryer Sweet Chilli Chicken Tenders are everything you want in a fakeaway — crispy, sticky, and loaded with high-protein goodness. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner, a high-protein lunch, or just a post-gym snack, these tenders will hit the spot every time.
Why choose Air Fryer Sweet Chilli Chicken Tenders
High-Protein
Easy to cook in the air fryer
Delicious and nutritious!
SWAPS + UPGRADES
Milder heat: Skip the sriracha and just use sweet chilli sauce for a gentler glaze.
Spicy upgrade: Add extra chilli flakes or hot honey for a fiery kick.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free cornflakes for the coating.
Extra crunch: Mix grated parmesan into the cornflake crumbs before coating.
Meal prep win: Cook a double batch and reheat in the air fryer for crispy leftovers.
More Recipes at Archer Kitchen
Thanks for stopping by Archer Kitchen by Rebecca Archer. Whether you’re here for quick weekday fixes, indulgent weekend treats, or to explore new flavours, we’ve got your back. Hungry for more inspiration? Dive into my collection of recipes and check out my cookbooks for exclusive tips, tricks, and flavour-packed dishes that’ll take your cooking game to the next level. Bookmark us, come back often, and let’s keep cooking up a storm together!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I cook these in the oven instead of an air fryer?
Yes! Bake at 200°C (fan 180°C) for 15–18 minutes, turning once. The coating won’t be quite as crisp as the air fryer, but still delicious.
Can I make chicken tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely. Coat the chicken strips in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Perfect for quick midweek dinners.
Are chicken tenders freezer-friendly?
Yes. Cooked tenders can be frozen once cooled — just reheat in the air fryer or oven until piping hot and crispy again.
What’s the best way to serve chicken tenders?
They’re great on their own, but also perfect stuffed in wraps, piled on rice bowls, or served with a crunchy side salad.
Can I make them less spicy?
Of course — just swap the sriracha for extra sweet chilli sauce or even a dash of honey for a mild, kid-friendly glaze.
Do I have to use cornflakes for the coating?
Not at all. Panko breadcrumbs work too, but cornflakes give that extra-crunchy, fakeaway-style bite.
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