Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders offer a healthier, less messy alternative to traditional fried chicken, while still delivering that satisfying crispy exterior and juicy interior. The combination of Parmesan cheese and seasonings creates a rich, savory crust that transforms these tenders into a flavorful dish your family will love. Perfect for a quick dinner, appetizer, or snack, these air fryer chicken tenders are bound to become a new household favorite.

Why You’ll Love These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders:

• Crispy on the Outside, Juicy on the Inside: The air fryer ensures a perfectly crispy coating while keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
• Healthier Option: Skip the grease of traditional frying without sacrificing flavor or texture.
• Quick & Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, these tenders are perfect for busy nights.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• Cooking spray

Directions:

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Begin by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the chicken starts cooking on a hot surface, promoting a crispier texture.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In a second shallow bowl, beat the eggs. The eggs will help the Parmesan mixture stick to the chicken.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then dredge the tender in the Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating adheres evenly. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.
4. Cook the Chicken: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap. Cook in batches if needed. Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through for even cooking and browning.
5. Check for Doneness: The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve: Serve the crispy chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy aioli.

Tips:

• Don’t Overcrowd: For the crispiest results, make sure the tenders are arranged in a single layer in the air fryer. If needed, cook in batches.
• Customize the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning mix to suit your taste. Add a little cayenne pepper for extra heat or Italian seasoning for a different twist.

These Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are perfect for anyone looking for a simple, tasty, and healthier meal option that everyone will enjoy.