Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of crispy chicken tenders, this air fryer version will quickly become your new favorite. The combination of parmesan and breadcrumbs creates a golden, flavorful crust, while the air fryer locks in the juiciness of the chicken, making each bite perfectly satisfying. The best part? These tenders are quick and easy to prepare, with minimal mess and cleanup. Plus, they are healthier than traditional deep-fried tenders without sacrificing flavor or crunch.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)

  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder

  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 1 egg, beaten

  • Olive oil spray

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

  2. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper.

  3. In another bowl, beat the egg.

  4. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.

  5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.

  6. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.

  7. Spray the tops of the chicken tenders with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.

  8. Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

  9. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce!

Servings and timing

  • Servings: 4

  • Prep time: 10 minutes

  • Cook time: 12 minutes

  • Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

  • Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets.

  • Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture to give these tenders a little heat.

  • Herbed coating: Experiment with different herbs like thyme, basil, or rosemary in the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh twist on flavor.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

  • Reheating: To maintain their crispiness, reheat the chicken tenders in the air fryer at 350°F for 4-5 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use an oven, but the air fryer method is recommended for the best texture.

FAQs

How do I get the chicken tenders extra crispy?

To get extra crispy chicken tenders, make sure to spray both sides of the tenders with olive oil before air frying. Also, using panko breadcrumbs and ensuring the chicken is fully coated will help achieve a crunchier texture.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes! Simply cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips to create homemade chicken tenders.

Do I need to preheat the air fryer?

Yes, preheating the air fryer ensures that the chicken tenders cook evenly and achieve a crispy exterior. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for best results.

Can I bake these chicken tenders in the oven instead?

Yes, if you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Can I freeze the chicken tenders?

Yes, you can freeze the breaded but uncooked chicken tenders. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, air fry from frozen for about 15-18 minutes.

Can I make these tenders ahead of time?

These tenders are best served fresh, but you can bread the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 hours before air frying.

How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?

Some great dipping sauces include ranch, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or buffalo sauce. You can also try a creamy garlic dip for extra flavor.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

If you’re using frozen pre-breaded chicken tenders, you can cook them in the air fryer. However, the cooking time may vary, so check the package for specific instructions.

How can I make these tenders even healthier?

For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of breadcrumbs and use more parmesan, or skip the oil spray and opt for a dry coating of breadcrumbs. You can also use whole wheat breadcrumbs for extra fiber.

Conclusion

These Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders offer a delicious, healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken tenders. With minimal oil and a simple, flavorful breading, they’re a perfect meal or snack for any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or just craving a crispy bite, this easy recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy your crunchy, juicy tenders with your favorite dipping sauce for the ultimate treat!

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Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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  • Author: Mia
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free
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Description

These Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier, guilt-free alternative to traditional deep-fried chicken tenders. With a deliciously crispy breadcrumb and parmesan crust and a juicy, tender chicken interior, these air fryer tenders are packed with flavor and texture. Perfect for busy weeknights or a quick snack, this recipe keeps the crunch while reducing the amount of oil used, making it a great choice for a healthier meal.

Ingredients

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1/2 tsp dried oregano

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 egg, beaten

Olive oil spray

Instructions

  • Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

  • In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.

  • In another bowl, beat the egg.

  • Dip each chicken tender into the egg, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.

  • Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray to prevent sticking.

  • Arrange the breaded tenders in the basket, leaving space between them.

  • Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.

  • Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

  • Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

  1. Gluten-free? Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers.
  2. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
  3. Experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh twist.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish, Snack
  • Method: Air Fryer
  • Cuisine: American

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