Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders: Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy

How to Make Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly and crisps up beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning (if using), salt, and pepper.
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs to create an egg wash.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Dredge the chicken in the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating.

Step 4: Air Fry the Chicken

Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the basket. Avoid overcrowding; cook in batches if needed.
Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.

Step 5: Cook to Perfection

Air fry the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
The chicken is done when the coating is golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Serving Suggestions

These Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas:

Serve with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, marinara, or spicy aioli.
Pair with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
Add them to wraps or sandwiches for a quick, satisfying lunch.

Tips for the Best Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Use Fresh Parmesan: Grated fresh Parmesan melts and browns better than the pre-packaged variety.
Don’t Skip the Spray: A light coat of cooking spray ensures even browning and prevents sticking.
Work in Batches: Overcrowding the air fryer basket can lead to uneven cooking. Give each tender some breathing room.
Reheat Like a Pro: To reheat leftovers, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

Why Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Are a Must-Try

The air fryer has revolutionized how we cook crispy, breaded dishes, and these chicken tenders are no exception. They deliver all the satisfying crunch and flavor of fried chicken but without the mess and excess oil. Plus, the Parmesan crust adds a cheesy, savory twist that elevates this dish from ordinary to extraordinary.