Name: Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 1.25 pounds Boneless Skinless Chicken Tenders; 0.5 cup All-Purpose Flour; 0.5 teaspoon Salt; 0.25 teaspoon Pepper; 6 tablespoons Olive Oil or Melted Butter; 3 teaspoons Minced Garlic; 1 teaspoon Dried Basil; 0.25 teaspoon Paprika; 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs; 0.67 cup Parmesan Cheese, Freshly Grated

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There’s something truly exciting about preparing Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a spontaneous weeknight dinner, and I was craving something crispy yet savory. Using the air fryer made it not only simple but also a bit healthier than traditional frying. Watching the chicken tenders cook to a perfect golden brown was mesmerizing. They came out so crunchy and flavorful, and the aroma filled the kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in. We gathered around the table, and the moment we took that first bite was magical. You know, the kind of moment when everyone is quiet, just enjoying the food? That’s how I knew these chicken tenders were a hit!

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
23 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
18 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
330 kcal

Protein:
28 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free

Fat:
16 g

Tools Used:
Air Fryer

Why This Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Shines

Convenience at Its Best

One of the reasons I love Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is how quick and convenient they are to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dinner in no time. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss.

Crispy Texture Without the Guilt

The air fryer gives these tenders an incredible crunch that rivals deep-fried versions. You’re still getting that much-loved fried texture but with significantly less oil. This means you can enjoy your favorite comfort food without the added guilt.

Kid-Friendly and Fun

My kids absolutely love these chicken tenders! They’re not just easy to make; they’re also fun to eat. I often serve them with a variety of dipping sauces, which adds to the excitement. It turns dinner into a mini feast that keeps everyone smiling.

Flavor-Packed

The flavor profile is another standout aspect. The combination of Parmesan cheese, garlic, and basil infuses the chicken with a delicious taste that makes each bite memorable. It’s a simple recipe, but the flavors are anything but basic.

Perfect for Meal Prep

These chicken tenders are great for meal prep. You can make a big batch over the weekend and store them right in the fridge. They reheat beautifully in the air fryer, making them an excellent choice for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients Overview for Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

When it comes to the ingredients for Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, each one plays a vital role in creating that perfect texture and flavor. The main players include boneless skinless chicken tenders, which provide a tender and juicy base. The addition of all-purpose flour, Parmesan cheese, and Panko breadcrumbs ensures a crispy coating that holds up beautifully during cooking. Each ingredient harmonizes to elevate your dining experience.

1 ¼ pounds boneless skinless chicken tenders – The star of the dish, these are juicy and easy to work with.
½ cup all-purpose flour – Helps the coating adhere to the chicken, giving it a nice crispy outer layer.
½ teaspoon salt – Essential for enhancing the flavor of the chicken.
¼ teaspoon pepper – Adds a subtle heat that complements the other flavors.
6 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter – Adds richness and helps to achieve that golden color.
3 teaspoons minced garlic – Infuses a savory depth of flavor into the tenders.
1 teaspoon dried basil – Provides an aromatic touch that brightens the dish.
¼ teaspoon paprika – Adds a hint of smokiness and color.
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs – These larger breadcrumbs create an extra crispy coating.
⅔ cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated – Delivers a lovely cheesy flavor that makes the tenders irresistible.

How to Cook Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Cooking Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders is an enjoyable process that results in a mouthwatering meal. Follow these steps for perfectly crispy and flavorful chicken. They will be a hit at your dinner table!

Start by setting out three bowls. In the first bowl, combine ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of the seasoning.
In the second bowl, pour in 6 tablespoons of olive oil or melted butter and add 3 teaspoons minced garlic. Stir these together until well combined, creating a flavorful mixture for the chicken to soak in.
In the final bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon dried basil, ¼ teaspoon paprika, 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs, and ⅔ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese. This will create the crispy coating.
Take each piece of boneless skinless chicken tender and first coat it in the flour mixture. Be sure to shake off any excess flour to avoid clumping.
Next, dip the floured chicken into the oil or butter mixture, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let any excess drip off so that it doesn’t become soggy.
Finally, place the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure a good coating on all sides. Aim for a nice, even layer of breadcrumbs for optimal crispiness.
Once all the tenders are coated, preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures they cook evenly and become golden brown.
Arrange the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they’re not overcrowded.
Cook the tenders for about 9 minutes. After that time, carefully flip them over to ensure both sides get that crispy texture.
Continue cooking for another 8 to 9 minutes. To check for doneness, use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Things Worth Knowing

Ensure your air fryer is preheated for the best results. This helps achieve that desired crispy texture.
Don’t overcrowd the basket. If the chicken tenders are too close together, they may steam instead of fry, which affects the crispiness.
For enhanced flavor, let the chicken marinate in the oil mixture for about 15 minutes before coating.
Check the chicken tenders a minute or two before the suggested cooking time, as air fryers can vary in temperature.

Make It Your Own

Personalizing your Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders can make the dish even more exciting. Here are some fun ways to tweak the recipe!

Experiment with spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the breadcrumb mixture. A little cayenne pepper can add a spicy kick!
Add herbs: Incorporating fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Try different cheeses: For a twist, use different types of cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella for a unique taste.
Serve with sauces: Pair these tenders with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli for added flavor.
Make it a meal: Serve the chicken tenders over a bed of greens or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.

What to Serve Alongside Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

When serving Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, there are numerous delightful options to complement the dish. Here are some ideas:

Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully with the crunchy tenders, balancing the meal.
Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: You can’t go wrong with classic fries! They’re a comforting side that everyone loves.
Vegetable Medley: Roasted or steamed vegetables can add a healthy touch to balance the meal.
Pasta Salad: A refreshing pasta salad can provide a delightful contrast and make the meal feel more substantial.
Dips: Alongside the tenders, consider serving a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard to enhance the experience.
Occasions: These chicken tenders are perfect for parties, game nights, or casual family dinners. They are versatile enough for any gathering!

FAQ

Absolutely! You can cut chicken breasts into strips to use in this recipe. Just ensure they’re of similar size to the tenders for even cooking. Each piece should still be coated as described, and you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they reach the proper internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

There are so many delicious options! Classic ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce are fantastic choices. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a spicy aioli for a kick or even a sweet chili sauce for something different. Each sauce adds a different layer of flavor, so feel free to experiment!

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free bread crumbs in place of the Panko. Just ensure all other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of these chicken tenders!

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them for up to two months. Reheat them in the air fryer for the best results, which will restore their crispiness.

Conclusion

These Crispy Parmesan Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a delightful way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthier twist. Their crispy exterior and tender interior make them an irresistible choice for any meal. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that your family will love. Enjoy the process and the delicious outcome, and don’t forget to have fun experimenting with your favorite dipping sauces!