Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders

There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly crispy chicken tender. Whether you’re serving them up for a weeknight dinner, a party platter, or just a cozy snack, Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders are sure to be a hit. This recipe elevates the classic chicken tender with a crunchy, golden panko crust that’s lightened up thanks to the air fryer. With just a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a batch that rivals your favorite restaurant version—all while keeping it healthy and family-friendly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken tenders are not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. The air fryer ensures that they come out crispy without the need for excessive oil, making them a healthier alternative to traditional frying. Plus, they’re customizable! Serve them with a variety of sauces, or toss them in different seasonings to switch things up. They also make for great leftovers that can be enjoyed in salads or wraps!

Ingredient Breakdown

To make your Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips – This is the star of the show! Look for fresh or thawed chicken for the best flavor.
• 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted – This adds moisture and helps the panko adhere for that perfect crunch.
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs – These Japanese-style breadcrumbs give an extra crispy texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• ½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese – Adds flavor and richness to the crust.
• 1 tsp kosher salt – Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing flavors.
• ½ tsp ground black pepper – For a subtle kick of heat.
• ½ tsp garlic powder – A must-have for that savory, garlicky goodness.

Recommended Tools

Before you dive into cooking, gather these essential tools:

• Air Fryer – Your best friend for achieving that crispy texture without all the oil.
• Mixing Bowls – For combining the ingredients and coating your chicken tenders.
• Tongs – Perfect for flipping and removing the chicken tenders without making a mess.
• Baking Sheet – Useful for laying out the chicken tenders before air frying.

Cooking Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders: The Process

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better. If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into tenders, ensuring they are uniform in size for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Coating Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, finely shredded Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, pour the melted unsalted butter. Dip each chicken tender into the melted butter, ensuring it’s well-coated, then roll it into the panko mixture. Press down lightly to ensure the breadcrumbs stick. Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet.

Step 4: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that crispy finish.

Step 5: Air Fry the Chicken Tenders

Once preheated, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding to ensure even cooking. Air fry for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, or enjoy them as is!

Variations by Season

Feel free to customize your Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders based on the season or your cravings. Here are some delicious ideas:

• Spicy Buffalo: Toss cooked tenders in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick.
• Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like oregano or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for a Mediterranean twist.
• Honey Mustard Glaze: Drizzle honey mustard over the tenders before serving for a sweet and tangy flavor.
• Parmesan Garlic: Mix more garlic powder and Parmesan into the panko for an extra cheesy garlic flavor.

Cook’s Commentary

• For the crispiest results, ensure your chicken tenders are dry before coating them.
• Experiment with different cheese types, such as cheddar or mozzarella, for a unique twist.
• If you have leftover tenders, they can be easily reheated without losing their crunch.
• These tenders make a fantastic addition to salads or wraps, enhancing your meal with protein and crunch.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftover Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze them, place the cooked tenders in a freezer-safe bag, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply place them back in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this will make them soggy.

Top Questions & Answers

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko?

While you can use regular breadcrumbs, Panko provides a crunchier texture that’s hard to beat. If you want the best results, stick with Panko.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute regular Panko with gluten-free Panko breadcrumbs and ensure your butter is gluten-free as well.

What dipping sauces pair best with these chicken tenders?

These tenders are versatile! Try pairing them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when fully cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.

Keep Cooking

If you love these Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders, here are some more recipes you might enjoy:

• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders – A flavorful twist on the classic tender.
• Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo – A hearty and warming dish perfect for any season.
• Chicken Tater Tot Casserole – A comfort food classic that’s sure to please the whole family.

Next Steps

Now that you have the perfect recipe for Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders, it’s time to get cooking! Gather your ingredients, preheat your air fryer, and enjoy the delightful crunch of these tender morsels. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as a snack, these chicken tenders will surely impress. Happy cooking!