Ingredients
Method
- Prepare the breading station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; the second with beaten eggs mixed with 1 tablespoon water; and the third with panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese if using. This setup will make it easy to coat the chicken evenly and ensure a crispy, golden exterior.
- Coat the chicken tenders: Take each chicken tender and dredge it first in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is completely covered. Finally, press it into the panko breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated on all sides. Repeat with all the chicken tenders. For extra crunch, press the breadcrumbs gently so they stick well.
- Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Preheating helps the tenders cook evenly and achieve that perfectly crisp texture.
- Cook the chicken tenders: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the tenders in a single layer, leaving a little space between each piece. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown, crispy, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The aroma of garlic and paprika will fill your kitchen, making it impossible to wait!
- Serve and enjoy: Remove the tenders carefully from the air fryer and let them rest for 2 minutes. This keeps them juicy inside while staying crispy outside. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, barbecue, or a spicy sriracha mayo. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, game day snack, or even as a party appetizer!
Notes
Ingredient Swaps: I love playing with the seasoning in the flour mix.
Sometimes I'll add a pinch of smoked paprika for a deeper flavor, or a touch of dried Italian herbs when I want