Parmesan crusted air fryer chicken tenders

Looking for a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken tenders without compromising on flavor and crispiness? Parmesan crusted air fryer chicken tenders are the answer! This easy-to-make recipe gives you all the crunch and taste of traditional chicken tenders, but with fewer calories and less oil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, these golden chicken tenders are sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

1. Crispy & Golden: The air fryer creates a crispy coating on the chicken tenders, while still keeping them juicy inside.
2. Healthier Option: By using the air fryer, you’re cutting down on the oil typically needed for frying. This makes the chicken tenders lighter without sacrificing flavor.
3. Quick and Easy: With a cooking time of just 15 minutes, these chicken tenders are perfect for busy days when you want a satisfying meal in no time.
4. Kid-Friendly: Kids love chicken tenders, and this healthier version is a great way to sneak in some protein without the guilt.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work great for extra crispiness)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 large egg
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.

2. Dip the Chicken: In a separate bowl, beat the egg. Dip each chicken tender into the egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the chicken tender in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.

3. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3-5 minutes. This step helps achieve the perfect crispy coating on the chicken tenders.

4. Air Fry the Chicken Tenders: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray them with cooking spray or olive oil spray to help the coating become golden and crispy. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).

5. Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders

• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan will give you a richer flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Air Fryer: For the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding the basket. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Try Different Seasonings: Customize the flavor by adding your favorite spices or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture, like Italian seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Make Them Gluten-Free: Swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.

Why Air Frying Is the Best Method

The air fryer uses hot air circulation to cook food, making it an ideal option for achieving crispy, golden coatings without the need for deep frying. Unlike traditional frying, which requires large amounts of oil, the air fryer needs just a light spray of oil to create that desired crunch. This results in a healthier dish that’s lower in fat but still packed with flavor.

Perfect Pairings for Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

These crispy chicken tenders are versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides:

• Salads: Serve with a fresh green salad or a tangy Caesar salad for a balanced meal.
• Vegetables: Roasted vegetables or steamed broccoli make for a great healthy side.
• Fries: For a more indulgent pairing, serve with baked fries or sweet potato fries.
• Sauces: Try dipping your chicken tenders in ranch dressing, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

Parmesan crusted air fryer chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier twist on a classic favorite. With their crispy exterior and tender, juicy interior, these chicken tenders are sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an easy appetizer for your next gathering, this recipe is a winner. Give it a try and enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken tenders without the guilt!

Serving and Storage Tips for Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Serving Tips:

1. Dipping Sauces: Enhance the flavor of your chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces. Classic choices include ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or marinara. For a spicy kick, try sriracha mayo or buffalo sauce.
2. Side Dishes: Pair your crispy chicken tenders with light and refreshing sides such as a fresh garden salad, coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a side of crispy fries for a satisfying meal.
3. Wrap It Up: Serve the chicken tenders in a whole wheat wrap with some lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of dressing for a delicious chicken tender wrap.
4. Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan on top of the tenders can add an extra touch of flavor and color to your dish.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing them. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. This will keep the chicken tender and fresh for later meals.
2. Freezing: If you want to store them for a longer period, freeze the chicken tenders. Lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen tenders can be kept for up to 2-3 months.
3. Reheating: To keep the chicken tenders crispy when reheating, place them back in the air fryer or bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-8 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Avoid microwaving them, as this can make the coating soggy.
4. Meal Prep: Parmesan crusted chicken tenders are a great option for meal prepping. Store them individually in meal prep containers along with your favorite sides for a quick and easy lunch or dinner during the week.

With these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your Parmesan crusted air fryer chicken tenders fresh or as leftovers, making them a convenient and delicious option for any occasion!

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts if you don’t have chicken tenders. Simply slice the chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking and a crispy coating. Keep in mind that larger pieces may need a slightly longer cooking time.

2. How can I make the coating extra crispy?
To make the coating extra crispy, use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. You can also spray the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray or olive oil before air frying to help achieve a golden, crispy texture. Be sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket for the best results.

3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make these chicken tenders gluten-free, simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. Make sure the Parmesan cheese is also gluten-free if you need to avoid gluten completely.

4. Can I cook these chicken tenders in the oven instead of the air fryer?
Yes, you can bake these chicken tenders in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Be sure to flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crispiness. However, the air fryer gives a slightly more uniform crispiness.

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