Parmesan crusted air fryer chicken tenders

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Ingredients

  • Chicken Tenders: Fresh or thawed; you can also use chicken breasts cut into strips.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated or pre-shredded for coating.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs: For added crunch; you can also use regular breadcrumbs.
  • Eggs: Help the coating adhere to the chicken.
  • Flour: To create a base layer for the coating.
  • Garlic Powder: Adds a savory kick.
  • Onion Powder: Enhances the overall flavor.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness.
  • Salt and Pepper: To taste.
  • Cooking Spray: For a crispy finish without excess oil.

Kitchen Equipment

  • Air Fryer: The star of the show for achieving that perfect crisp.
  • Large Mixing Bowl: For coating the chicken.
  • Shallow Dish: For dredging the chicken in flour.
  • Whisk: For beating the eggs.
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
  • Tongs or Fork: For handling the chicken.
  • Plate or Tray: For staging the coated chicken tenders.

Recipe Directions

  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
    • If using chicken breasts, cut them into tenders or strips.
    • Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  2. Bread the Chicken:
    • Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off the excess.
    • Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
    • Coat the chicken with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks well.
  3. Preheat the Air Fryer:
    • Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step ensures that the chicken tenders cook evenly and become perfectly crispy.
  4. Cook the Chicken Tenders:
    • Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure proper air circulation and even cooking.
    • Lightly spray the chicken tenders with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
    • Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
  5. Serve and Enjoy:
    • Once done, transfer the chicken tenders to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
    • Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.

Notes and Tips

  • Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating ensures a more even cook and better texture. If your air fryer doesn’t have a preheat setting, simply run it at the cooking temperature for 5 minutes before adding the chicken.
  • Batch Cooking: If you’re making a large batch, cook the tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lead to uneven cooking.
  • Customizing the Coating: Feel free to experiment with different spices or herbs in the breadcrumb mixture to tailor the flavor to your liking.
  • Storage: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer for best results to regain their crispiness.

Food and Drink Pairings

Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of sides. Try serving them with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a balanced meal. For a fun twist, pair them with classic sides like coleslaw or macaroni and cheese. To drink, a crisp, refreshing lemonade or a cold beer complements the savory flavors of the tenders.

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