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.
I have always loved serving these chicken tenders at family gatherings where they get devoured quickly every time.
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
- Preheat:
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.
- Prepare Chicken:
- Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- Prep Bowls:
- 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.
- Coating:
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour shaking off excess Dip in egg mixture then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture pressing gently for adhesion.
- Arrange in Air Fryer:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer working in batches if needed.
- Cook:
- 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).
- Serve:
- Serve warm garnished with parsley and accompanied by your favorite festive dip.
Pin it This recipe always brings the family together as everyone enjoys the perfect crispy texture and festive flavors.
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
Calories 280 Total Fat 7 g Carbohydrates 23 g Protein 32 g per serving
Pin it These chicken tenders are easy to prepare and perfect for any festive occasion or quick family meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What is the best way to achieve a crispy coating?
Using panko breadcrumbs combined with grated Parmesan and seasoning creates a crunchy and flavorful crust that crisps well in the air fryer.
- → Can I use other spices in the breading mix?
Yes, adding spices such as cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile to your liking.
- → How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?
Cook the tenders at 200°C (400°F) until they reach an internal temperature of 74°C (165°F), flipping halfway for even browning.
- → Is it possible to make this gluten-free?
Replace the all-purpose flour and panko with gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to accommodate gluten-free needs.
- → What dipping sauces complement these tenders?
Festive dips such as cranberry sauce, honey mustard, or spiced ketchup pair wonderfully with the golden tenders.