Description
Crispy and juicy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders, perfectly seasoned and coated with a flavorful breadcrumb and panko mixture. This quick and easy recipe delivers golden, crunchy chicken tenders in under 35 minutes, making it a perfect meal or snack that pairs wonderfully with fresh lemon wedges.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 12 chicken tenders (1 1/4 lbs)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Black pepper, to taste
Breading
- 1/2 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup seasoned panko
Finishing
- Olive oil spray
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Sprinkle the chicken tenders evenly with kosher salt and black pepper to taste, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned.
- Prepare the breading stations: Crack and beat the eggs in a shallow bowl. In a second shallow bowl, mix the seasoned breadcrumbs and seasoned panko together.
- Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the breadcrumb and panko mixture. Shake off any excess breading and arrange the coated tenders on a large dish or cutting board. Generously spray both sides of each tender with olive oil spray for a crispy finish.
- Preheat the air fryer: Set your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) and preheat it to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Cook the chicken tenders: In batches if necessary, place the chicken tenders in the air fryer basket. Cook each side for 5 to 6 minutes until the tenders are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and serve immediately with fresh lemon wedges for added zest and flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, you can add garlic powder, paprika, or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the air fryer basket to allow even cooking and crispiness.
- Using olive oil spray helps achieve a healthier and crispier coating compared to deep frying.
- The internal temperature of cooked chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Leftover chicken tenders can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer for best texture.