Crispy Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders
These crispy Parmesan crusted chicken tenders are an easy, quick snack or light meal made in the air fryer, delivering a golden, crunchy coating without deep frying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Snack
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450 grams) chicken tenders, fresh, skinless, boneless
- 1 cup (100 grams) finely grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
- ½ cup (60 grams) all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour as substitute)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ¾ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional)
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Even out thickness by gently pounding thicker pieces to about ½ inch (1.3 cm).
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until smooth and slightly frothy.
- Spread the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on a plate or shallow dish.
- Dredge each chicken tender first in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, coating fully. Press firmly into the Parmesan cheese to coat all sides. Place coated tenders on a clean plate or tray.
- Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Spray the air fryer basket lightly with cooking spray. Arrange tenders in a single layer without touching. Spray tops lightly with cooking spray.
- Air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Add 1-2 minutes if extra crispness is desired, watching closely to avoid burning.
- Remove tenders and let rest on a wire rack or paper towel-lined plate for 3-5 minutes before serving.
Notes
Pat chicken dry for better coating adhesion. Do not overcrowd air fryer basket to ensure crispiness. Flip tenders halfway through cooking. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best crust. Cooking spray lightly to avoid sogginess. Can bake in oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes as alternative.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: About 3-4 chicken te
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 5
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 35
Keywords: air fryer chicken tenders, Parmesan crusted chicken, crispy chicken tenders, easy snack, quick chicken recipe, healthy chicken tenders