Description
This recipe is simple, flexible, and a favorite in my household. The air fryer makes cooking fast, cleanup easy, and the results are always delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8–10 pieces)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- Cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the breading station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; the second with beaten eggs mixed with 1 tablespoon water; and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese if using.
- Coat the chicken tenders: Take each chicken tender and dredge it first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is completely covered. Finally, press it into the panko breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated on all sides.
- 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 cooking spray or brush with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the tenders in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown, crispy, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the tenders carefully from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Preheating the air fryer is essential for even cooking. Avoid overcrowding the basket to allow hot air to circulate and ensure maximum crispiness. Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Snacks
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, homemade chicken tenders, crispy chicken, easy dinner, kid-friendly snacks