Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a quick and easy meal that's perfect for both kids and adults. These chicken tenders are coated in a flavorful mixture of Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then cooked to perfection in the air fryer. The result is a crispy exterior with a juicy and tender inside, making them a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a delightful meal or snack.
Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a quick and easy meal that's perfect for both kids and adults. These chicken tenders are coated in a flavorful mixture of Panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, then cooked to perfection in the air fryer. The result is a crispy exterior with a juicy and tender inside, making them a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders.
INGREDIENTS
- Chicken Tenders: 1 1/4 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken tenders. Trim any excess fat for a leaner option.
- White Flour: 1/2 cup, used as the base for the initial coating.
- Salt and Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper, for seasoning the flour mixture.
- Olive Oil or Butter: 6 tablespoons, mixed with garlic for added flavor and to help the breadcrumbs adhere.
- Minced Garlic: 3 teaspoons, adds a burst of garlic flavor.
- Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon, for a hint of herbal aroma.
- Paprika: 1/4 teaspoon, adds a subtle smokiness.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 1 cup, for a light and crispy coating.
- Parmesan Cheese: 2/3 cup, freshly grated, adds a rich, nutty flavor to the coating.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- Begin by trimming any excess fat from the chicken tenders to ensure they are clean and lean. Set the prepared chicken tenders aside.
- Step 2:
- Set out three separate bowls for the coating process. In the first bowl, combine 1/2 cup of white flour, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of pepper. Stir until well mixed. In the second bowl, mix together 6 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter with 3 teaspoons of minced garlic. In the third bowl, combine 1 cup of Panko breadcrumbs, 2/3 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, and 1/4 teaspoon of paprika. Stir each bowl's contents to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Step 3:
- Take each chicken tender and first dredge it in the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Shake off any excess flour, then dip the tender into the garlic oil mixture, ensuring it is well coated. Finally, press the tender into the Panko and Parmesan mixture, covering it completely and pressing lightly to adhere the coating.
- Step 4:
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and crisping.
- Step 5:
- Cook the chicken tenders at 400°F for 9 minutes. After the initial cooking time, carefully flip each tender over and continue cooking for an additional 8-9 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Serving and Storage Tips
These Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are best served immediately, while they're hot and crispy. They pair perfectly with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a classic ranch dressing. For a balanced meal, consider serving them with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the tenders back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-6 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Helpful Notes
For a healthier version, use olive oil instead of butter in the garlic oil mixture. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Try adding Italian seasoning or smoked paprika for a unique twist. To ensure the chicken tenders stay crispy, avoid stacking them on top of each other when storing. If you're making a larger batch, cook the tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests letting the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute, making them more tender. Chef Jamie Oliver recommends using freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture. According to Chef Nigella Lawson, lightly spraying the tenders with cooking oil before air frying can help achieve an extra-crispy crust.