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Homemade Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders recipe photo
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Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders

These Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders are crispy, delicious, and healthier than traditional frying!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time12 minutes
Total Time27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
  • 6 tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp ground black pepper
  • ½ tsp garlic powder

Instructions

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

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Baking Sheet

Notes

  • Ensure your chicken tenders are dry before coating for the crispiest results.
  • Experiment with different cheese types for a unique twist.
  • Leftover tenders can be easily reheated in the air fryer to maintain their crunch.
  • These tenders make a great addition to salads or wraps.