Description

Craving something crispy, cheesy, and satisfying? These Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are the perfect solution. They offer all the crunch and flavor of traditional fried chicken tenders but with a healthier twist thanks to the air fryer. With a coating of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, these tenders are sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into how to make them!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• Olive oil spray or cooking spray

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Preheating ensures that the chicken tenders cook evenly and get a nice, crispy coating.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixture
In a shallow bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure that all the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumb mixture.

Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In another shallow bowl, beat the two eggs until they are well combined. The egg wash will help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken tenders.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and first dip it into the egg wash, making sure it is fully coated. Allow any excess egg to drip off, then press the chicken tender into the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture. Press down gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken, coating it evenly on all sides. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent the tenders from sticking. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Spray the tops of the chicken tenders with a light coating of olive oil or cooking spray. This helps the breadcrumbs crisp up and turn a beautiful golden brown.

Air fry the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The tenders are done when they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the chicken tenders are crispy and fully cooked, remove them from the air fryer and let them cool slightly on a wire rack or paper towels to maintain their crispiness. Serve these Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips
Add Some Heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
Make It Gluten-Free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Serve with a Side: Pair these tenders with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or some air-fried potato wedges for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-4 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Conclusion
These Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful goodness. They’re easy to make, healthier than traditional fried tenders, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun snack. The air fryer ensures that they turn out perfectly crispy without the need for deep frying, making them a great option for anyone looking to enjoy delicious chicken tenders with a little less guilt. Serve them up with your favorite sides and dipping sauces, and watch them disappear in no time!