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Golden crispy air fryer chicken tenders topped with grated Parmesan cheese
Heba Mohmed

Ultra-Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders have a crisp Panko coating and juicy chicken inside. Toasting the Panko first helps it brown more evenly, and the chicken is ready in about 20 minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 11 minutes
Total Time 21 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins or boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 3/4-inch strips
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • 1 cup dry Panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely grated Parmesan
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Meat Thermometer
  • Refillable oil mister or other oiling method recommended by your air fryer manufacturer
  • Dry skillet

Method
 

  1. Place Panko in a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly golden. Transfer to a plate to cool slightly.
  2. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Season with salt and black pepper.
  3. Set up three bowls. Place flour in the first. Beat the eggs with 1 teaspoon olive oil in the second. Combine toasted Panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder in the third.
  4. Dip each chicken strip in flour and shake off the excess. Dip into the egg mixture, then press into the Panko mixture until well coated.
  5. Preheat the air fryer to 390°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Lightly oil the basket using a method recommended by the manufacturer.
  6. Arrange the chicken in a single layer without overcrowding. Air fry at 390°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes total, flipping after about 5 minutes.
  7. Check the thickest piece with an instant-read thermometer. The chicken is ready when it reaches 165°F (74°C).
  8. Transfer the chicken tenders to a wire rack and let them rest for about 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cook in batches if needed.
  • Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken and your air fryer model.
  • Reheat leftovers at 350°F (175°C) for about 3–4 minutes.
  • For the best texture, use an instant-read thermometer rather than relying only on the cooking time