PARMESAN CRUSTED AIR FRYER CHICKEN TENDERS
These Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are crispy, golden, and packed with flavor. Coated in a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, they’re quick to make, healthier than deep-fried chicken tenders, and perfect for a family-friendly meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup Italian-style breadcrumbs or panko for extra crunch
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the breading: In a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken tenders: In another shallow bowl, whisk the egg. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it evenly in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Cook the chicken tenders: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they aren’t overlapping.
- Air fry: Cook the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.
Notes
- For an even crispier texture, you can add an extra layer of breadcrumbs or panko after dipping the chicken in egg.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices like paprika, thyme, or parsley to adjust the flavor.
- If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes on a baking sheet, flipping them halfway through.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for 3-5 minutes to restore their crispiness.