If you’re looking for the ultimate way to make juicy, golden-brown chicken tenders, these air fryer chicken breast tenders are exactly what you need! Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and seasoned to perfection, they’re a healthy twist on the classic comfort food. Whether you’re meal prepping, making a quick dinner, or just craving something better than takeout, this recipe fits the bill—without the grease!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray
Instructions:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the breading: In a bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken tender in the beaten eggs, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently for an even coat.
- Arrange in the air fryer: Place the coated tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for extra crispiness.
- Cook: Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for 2 minutes before serving. Perfect for dipping with your favorite sauces!
Pro Tips for Success:
- Want extra crispy tenders? Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- For a lower-carb option: Skip the breadcrumbs and use crushed pork rinds or almond flour instead.
- Batch cooking? Cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer for even crispiness.
Serving Ideas:
These air fryer chicken breast tenders pair perfectly with roasted veggies, a side of air-fried sweet potato bites, or on top of a fresh salad. They’re also amazing for meal prep—just reheat for a quick, protein-packed lunch!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 210
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
Ready to make your own batch of crispy perfection? Try this easy air fryer chicken breast tenders recipe tonight and let me know how they turn out!
