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Easy Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

air fryer parmesan chicken tenders - featured image
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These crispy air fryer parmesan chicken tenders are quick, easy, and deliver a perfect crunch without deep frying. The parmesan-infused coating creates a golden, craggy crust that shatters with every bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds chicken breast tenders (or boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Cooking spray (avocado or olive oil)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
  • Lemon wedges (optional, for serving)
  • Your favorite dipping sauces (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. If using whole chicken breasts, cut into strips about 1 inch wide and 4 inches long.
  2. In one shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and Dijon mustard until smooth. In another shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until the parmesan is evenly distributed.
  3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3-5 minutes.
  4. Working with one piece at a time, dip each tender into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off. Then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides. Place on a plate or cutting board.
  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the coated tenders in a single layer in the basket, making sure they are not touching. Cook in batches if necessary.
  6. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray. Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes. Flip each tender carefully with tongs, spray the other side, and cook for another 4-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
  7. Let the tenders rest in the air fryer basket for 1-2 minutes. Transfer to a serving platter, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges and dipping sauces.

Notes

Pat the chicken dry for best coating adhesion. Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Use freshly grated parmesan for optimal crispiness. For multiple batches, keep cooked tenders warm in a 200°F oven on a wire rack.

Nutrition

Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, parmesan chicken tenders, easy chicken recipe, weeknight dinner, kid-friendly

Find it online: https://zorbmeal.com/easy-crispy-air-fryer-parmesan-chicken-tenders-recipe/