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Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken:
  • 1½ lbs chicken breast tenderloins or chicken breasts cut into strips
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Breading Station:
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1½ cups panko bread crumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Cooking spray

Instructions
 

  • Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
  • Season chicken with salt and pepper on both sides.
  • Set up three shallow bowls for breading.
  • First bowl: add flour.
  • Second bowl: whisk eggs and milk.
  • Third bowl: mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  • Dredge chicken in flour. Coat all sides. Shake off excess.
  • Dip in egg mixture. Let excess drip off.
  • Press into panko mixture. Coat thoroughly. Press crumbs on well.
  • Place breaded tender on plate. Repeat with all chicken.
  • Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
  • Spray air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  • Arrange tenders in single layer. Do not overcrowd. Leave space between.
  • Spray tops lightly with cooking spray.
  • Air fry at 400°F for 10 to 12 minutes. Flip at 5 to 6 minutes.
  • Check internal temperature reaches 165°F and coating is golden brown.
  • Let rest 2 minutes.
  • Serve hot with dipping sauces.

Notes

  • Pat chicken dry for the breading to stick
  • Press the breading on firmly
  • Do not skip the cooking spray on top
  • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket
  • Flip halfway for even browning
  • Check temperature — safe at 165°F
  • Serve immediately for crispiest texture
  • Can bake at 425°F for 15 to 18 minutes instead
  • Freeze uncooked breaded tenders up to 3 months
  • Reheat in air fryer at 350°F for 3 to 4 minutes