Here’s a Parmesan-crusted air fryer chicken tenders recipe — super crispy outside, juicy inside, and easy enough for a weeknight 🍗🧀
(No deep frying needed!)
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (fine, not shredded)
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 large egg
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat air fryer
- Preheat to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Set up breading station
- Bowl 1: beaten egg
- Bowl 2: mix Parmesan, panko, garlic powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken
- Dip each tender in egg, letting excess drip off.
- Press into Parmesan mixture, coating well.
- Air fry
- Lightly spray air fryer basket with oil.
- Place tenders in a single layer (don’t overcrowd).
- Spray tops lightly with oil.
- Cook
- Air fry 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through.
Tips for Extra Crispiness
- Use finely grated Parmesan (it melts and crisps better).
- Don’t stack the chicken — airflow is key.
- Add a light oil spray on top before cooking.
Serving Ideas
- Marinara or ranch for dipping
- Over Caesar salad
- With roasted veggies or fries
Variations
- Spicy: add cayenne or red pepper flakes
- Keto: skip panko, use all Parmesan + almond flour
- Herb: add fresh parsley or basil after cooking
If you want, I can also give you a Parmesan chicken sandwich version, a kid-friendly nugget style, or an oven-baked version.
