Looking for a tasty twist on a dinner classic? My Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe offers a crunch you won’t forget. Made with juicy chicken, savory Parmesan, and a kick of garlic, these tenders are easy to whip up. Perfect for weeknight meals or fun gatherings, they promise to impress. Get ready to dive into a simple guide that will have you serving up mouthwatering tenders in no time!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives these chicken tenders an irresistible crunch without the added oil, making them a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a last-minute meal prep.
- Kid-Friendly: These chicken tenders are a hit with kids and adults alike, making them a great choice for family gatherings or parties.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings or breadcrumbs to suit your taste preferences, allowing for endless variations!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Seasoning Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Binding Ingredients
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– Cooking spray
The main ingredients for crispy air fryer Parmesan chicken tenders are simple yet flavorful. The chicken tenders are the star of the dish, providing a tender and juicy base. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory taste. Panko breadcrumbs give the tenders a satisfying crunch, which makes them so appealing.
For seasoning, garlic powder and onion powder add depth. Italian seasoning brings in a mix of herbs that enhance the flavor. Salt and black pepper round out the taste, ensuring each bite is delicious.
The binding ingredients are also key. Beaten eggs help the cheese and breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Cooking spray is essential to ensure the tenders do not stick and helps achieve that golden crisp.
With these ingredients, you set the stage for a fun and tasty meal that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
– Patting chicken tenders dry: Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. This step is key for getting a crispy coating. If the chicken is wet, it won’t crisp up well. Set the dry tenders aside.
– Mixing dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir it well until everything blends nicely. This mixture will give your chicken a great flavor and crunch.
Dipping and Coating
– Setting up the dipping station: Grab another bowl and beat the two large eggs. This will be your egg wash. Set this bowl on one side. On the other side, keep your bowl with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mix ready. This setup makes coating easy.
– Coating the chicken tenders: Take each chicken tender and dip it into the egg wash first. Let the extra egg drip off. Then, move the tender into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mix. Press down gently to ensure a good coating. Repeat this for all the tenders.
Cooking Steps
– Preheating the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is important. It helps the chicken cook evenly and become crispy.
– Arranging chicken tenders in the air fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. This helps prevent sticking. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer. Make sure they have space between them for air to flow.
– Air frying and flipping: Give the tops of the chicken tenders a light spray of cooking spray for extra crispiness. Cook them in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes. Halfway through, flip the tenders for even cooking. They are ready when golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Crisp
To get that perfect crisp, start by patting the chicken tenders dry. Water makes them soggy. Use a paper towel to soak up any moisture. This step is key for a crunchy coating.
Next, cooking spray is your friend! Lightly spray both the air fryer basket and the tops of the chicken tenders. This will help them become golden and crispy.
Serving Suggestions
Think about what to serve with your chicken tenders. They pair great with dips like marinara sauce or ranch dressing. These sauces add flavor and fun.
For a nice touch, garnish your platter with fresh parsley. This adds color and freshness. Arrange the tenders neatly, and don’t forget the dips on the side. Enjoy every bite!
Pro Tips
- Pat Dry for Crispiness: Ensure the chicken tenders are thoroughly patted dry before coating. This helps the breading adhere better and results in a crunchier texture.
- Use Fresh Panko: Opt for fresh panko breadcrumbs for maximum crunch. Stale breadcrumbs can lead to a soggy coating.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: Air fry in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. This allows hot air to circulate freely, ensuring even cooking and crispiness.
- Let Them Rest: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a minute after cooking. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping them moist and tender.
Variations
Flavor Additions
To boost flavor, try adding spices. You can mix in some cayenne for heat. A dash of paprika adds a nice smoky note. If you want herby goodness, fresh herbs work great too. Experiment with your favorites.
You can also switch up the breadcrumbs. While panko gives a great crunch, regular breadcrumbs can work too. For a twist, consider using crushed cornflakes. They add a fun crunch and a unique flavor.
Protein Swaps
If you’re not using chicken tenders, there are many options. You can try turkey tenders. They cook similarly and taste great. Fish fillets, like cod or tilapia, are also good swaps. They stay moist and soak up flavors well.
For a vegetarian option, use eggplant or zucchini slices. Coat them just like the chicken. They will crisp up nicely in the air fryer. You can also use tofu for a protein-rich choice. Just make sure to press out excess moisture first.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store leftover chicken tenders, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing. Wrap the tenders tightly in plastic wrap, then put them in a freezer bag. They will last for about three months in the freezer.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat chicken tenders and keep them crispy, use the air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. You can also use the oven. Preheat it to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 10-15 minutes. Both methods will help maintain that crunchy texture. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the tenders soggy.
FAQs
How long should I air fry chicken tenders?
You should air fry chicken tenders for 10 to 12 minutes. Flip them halfway through. They are ready when they turn golden brown. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C). This ensures they are safe and juicy.
Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders in advance. After coating them, store the tenders in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, just air fry them. This saves time and makes dinner easy.
What can I serve with crispy Parmesan chicken tenders?
These chicken tenders pair well with many sides. Try serving them with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping. Fresh veggies, salad, or fries also make great sides. For a colorful plate, add a sprinkle of parsley on top. Enjoy the flavors!
In this post, we covered how to make crispy Parmesan chicken tenders. We discussed key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and useful tips. You learned how to achieve that perfect crisp and explore fun variations. Don’t forget how to store and reheat leftovers to keep them tasty.
Enjoy this easy recipe for a delicious meal anytime. Now, take your cooking to the next leve
