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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders | Crispy, Juicy & Easy Recipe

These Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready in just 20 minutes. Made with simple pantry ingredients and cooked with little oil, they're a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken that's perfect for both kids and adults.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: dinner, lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 325

Ingredients
  

  • pounds chicken tenders
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • Cooking spray

Equipment

  • 1 Air Fryer 4 to 6-quart capacity recommended
  • 2 Mixing Bowls For breading station
  • 1 Shallow Dish Coat chicken
  • 1 Tongs Flip chicken tenders
  • 1 Measuring Cups & Spoons Measure ingredients
  • 1 Meat Thermometer Ensure chicken reaches 165°F

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.In one bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.In another bowl, combine the panko, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture.Coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks.Lightly spray both sides of the tenders with cooking spray.Arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket without overlapping.Air fry for 5 minutes, flip the tenders, spray lightly again, and cook another 4–5 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches if needed.
  • Panko breadcrumbs create the crispiest texture.
  • Flip the tenders halfway through cooking for even browning.
  • Always check for an internal temperature of 165°F.
  • Leftovers stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheat well in the air fryer.
    Lightly spray the breaded chicken with cooking oil before air frying for an extra crispy, golden coating.