Description
Crispy, cheesy, and perfectly juicy, these Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders are quick to make and packed with flavor. A crunchy parmesan breadcrumb coating gives every bite irresistible texture without deep frying.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian-style)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Set up three shallow bowls or plates—one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper, one with the beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and paprika.
2. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off the excess. Dip into the egg, then coat in the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture, pressing gently so it sticks well.
3. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
4. Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the tenders in a single layer and lightly spray the tops. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Serve with ranch, honey mustard, spicy aioli, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra crispiness, spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray before air frying.
Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket—cook in batches if needed.
Italian-style breadcrumbs add even more flavor.
For a low-carb version, substitute crushed pork rinds or almond flour for the breadcrumbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 39g
- Cholesterol: 165mg