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There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of chicken tenders. The crispy coating, the juicy interior, and the endless possibilities for dipping sauces make them a go-to meal in many households. Growing up, my family had a tradition of Friday night dinners, where we would all gather around the table, share stories from our week, and enjoy a delicious homemade meal. One of the stars of those dinners was, without a doubt, chicken tenders.

Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Discover the joy of making family-friendly Crunchy Golden Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, a deliciously healthier twist on a classic favorite. Perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these tenders are quick to whip up and customizable with your choice of dipping sauces. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe combines simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making it a must-try for any kitchen. Enjoy the nostalgic flavors with a modern, air-fried approach!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) chicken breast, cut into strips

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Preparation: Start by preheating your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, set up a breading station with three shallow dishes.

    Dredging: In the first dish, add the flour together with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix to combine. In the second dish, beat the eggs until well mixed. In the third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese.

      Coating the Chicken: Take a chicken strip and dip it into the seasoned flour, coating it evenly, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip back. Finally, press the chicken strip into the panko-Parmesan mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated. Repeat for all chicken strips.

        Preparing for Air Frying: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Arrange the coated chicken tenders in the basket in a single layer, making sure they don’t overlap. If necessary, air fry in batches.

          Air Frying: Spray the tops of the chicken tenders with a light coat of cooking spray. Air fry the chicken tenders for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

            Serving: Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer. Let them rest for a couple of minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4