Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

You can, but panko gives a lighter, crispier result. Regular breadcrumbs create a denser crust that isn’t quite as satisfyingly crunchy.

Can I make these with chicken breasts or thighs?

Absolutely! Simply cut boneless breasts or thighs into strips about the size of tenders. Thighs give a slightly richer, juicier bite.

What if I don’t have an air fryer?

No problem. Bake tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet at 425°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

How do I keep the coating from falling off?

Make sure to pat your chicken dry before dredging, and firmly press the crumb layer onto the chicken. Don’t skip the olive oil and garlic step—it’s key for sticking!

Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Recipe

Description

These Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are juicy on the inside with a crisp, flavorful parmesan and panko coating. Cooked to golden perfection in the air fryer, they make a delicious and healthier main course or snack, perfect for a quick family dinner or an easy meal prep option.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Chicken

1 1/4 lb. boneless, skinless chicken tenders

Flour Mixture

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper, to taste

Oil & Garlic Mixture

6 tablespoons olive oil
3 teaspoons minced garlic

Crumb Coating

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
2/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon paprika

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Instructions

Prepare the Mixtures: In a shallow bowl, combine olive oil and minced garlic. In a second bowl, mix all-purpose flour with salt and pepper to taste. In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, dried basil, and paprika. Mix each thoroughly.
Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour mixture, ensuring it is evenly coated. Next, dip the floured chicken into the olive oil and garlic mixture. Finally, press the chicken into the crumb coating, ensuring all sides are covered well.
Arrange in Air Fryer: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket of the air fryer, ensuring they are not overlapping for even cooking.
Air Fry: Cook the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 9-10 minutes. Open the air fryer, carefully flip each tender, and cook for another 9-10 minutes, or until the coating is golden and the chicken is cooked through with no pink inside.
Serve: Remove from the air fryer and let rest for 2 minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket for best crispy results.
Lightly spray tenders with oil for an extra golden crust if desired.
Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
These tenders can be reheated in the air fryer to regain their crispiness.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/5 of recipe (about 2-3 tenders)
Calories: 699kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 1032mg
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Unsaturated Fat: 20g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Carbohydrates: 57g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 43g
Cholesterol: 100mg