Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a delightful and healthier take on classic chicken tenders. This recipe uses the air fryer to achieve a crispy, golden crust without the need for deep frying. With the combination of Parmesan cheese and Panko breadcrumbs, these chicken tenders are both crunchy and flavorful. They make a great weeknight meal, party appetizer, or snack. In this post, we’ll go through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cooking tips, variations, and serving suggestions for the perfect Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders.
Ingredients
- 1 1/4 pounds chicken tenders, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup white flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2/3 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
1. Preparation:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures that the tenders start cooking immediately and achieve a crispy crust.
- While the air fryer is preheating, prepare the chicken tenders. Pat them dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
2. Breading Setup:
- In one shallow bowl, place the white flour and season it with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- In a second shallow bowl, combine the olive oil or melted butter with the minced garlic, dried basil, and paprika. Mix well.
- In a third shallow bowl, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
3. Coating the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken tender in the seasoned flour, ensuring it is fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
- Dip the floured chicken tender into the olive oil mixture, making sure it is evenly coated with the oil and spices.
- Finally, roll the chicken tender in the Panko and Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well to the chicken.
4. Air Frying:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Be sure not to overcrowd them to allow for even cooking.
- Cook 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 crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Serving:
- Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the tenders moist.
- Serve the Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.
Cooking Tips
- Even Coating: Ensure each piece of chicken is evenly coated at each step for the best results.
- Oil vs. Butter: Olive oil tends to give a lighter, crispier coating, while melted butter adds a richer flavor. Choose based on your preference.
- Spacing: Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Variations
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different dried herbs such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the Panko mixture for a spicy version.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the white flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs.
Serving Suggestions
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, BBQ sauce, or sriracha mayo.
- Salad: Pair the chicken tenders with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Vegetable Sides: Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or steamed broccoli for a complete dinner.
Nutritional Benefits
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders offer a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders by using an air fryer, which reduces the amount of oil needed for cooking. Chicken tenders are a good source of lean protein, and the use of Parmesan cheese adds a boost of calcium and flavor without excessive calories. By using whole, fresh ingredients, this recipe ensures a nutritious and delicious meal.
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a fantastic dish that combines ease of preparation with outstanding flavor and texture. The air fryer method ensures that the tenders are crispy without being greasy, making them a healthier option for chicken lovers. With the right balance of seasonings and the perfect golden crust, these chicken tenders are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re serving them as a main course, appetizer, or snack, they are guaranteed to please. Try this recipe today and enjoy the delightful crunch and savory taste of Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders!
