Save Crispy, golden chicken tenders with a festive twist—coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and air-fried for a healthier, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite, especially during holiday gatherings where everyone enjoys a crunchy, flavorful chicken tender.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 500 g (1 lb) chicken breast tenders, trimmed
- Breading: 100 g (1 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, zest of 1 lemon
- Dipping & Coating: 2 large eggs, 2 tbsp milk, 40 g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour
- Optional Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, cranberry sauce or honey mustard for serving
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.
- Step 2:
- Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- Step 3:
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour one with beaten eggs and milk one with panko Parmesan paprika garlic powder thyme salt pepper and lemon zest mixed together.
- Step 4:
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour shaking off excess Dip in egg mixture then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture pressing gently for adhesion.
- Step 5:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer working in batches if needed.
- Step 6:
- Air fry for 8 minutes flip then air fry for another 5 7 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
- Step 7:
- Serve warm garnished with parsley and accompanied by your favorite festive dip.
Save These chicken tenders are always a hit when I prepare them for family get-togethers especially with kids requesting seconds.
Required Tools
Air fryer Three shallow bowls Tongs Kitchen thermometer recommended
Allergen Information
Contains Egg milk (dairy) wheat (gluten) and cheese (milk). Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 280 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 23 g Protein 32 g
Save Serve these tenders fresh and crispy for the best taste they pair wonderfully with any festive dip.
Recipe Help & FAQs
- → What temperature should I set the air fryer for cooking?
Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) before placing the tenders inside to ensure even cooking and a crispy crust.
- → Can I use alternative coatings for the tenders?
Yes, you can substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if needed, or add spices like cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy inside?
Pat the chicken tenders dry before coating and avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to allow proper air circulation.
- → What dipping sauces complement these tenders?
Try cranberry sauce, honey mustard, or spiced ketchup to enhance the festive flavor profile.
- → Is it necessary to flip the tenders during cooking?
Yes, flipping halfway through cooking ensures an even golden crust on all sides.