Are you looking for a quick and tasty meal that will satisfy both kids and adults? Look no further! We’re here to guide you on how to make the top 10 crispy Parmesan chicken tenders using your trusty air fryer. In this article, we’ll break it down into easy steps, so even if you’re new to cooking, you can whip up a delightful dish with confidence.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we start, make sure you have all the ingredients ready. You’ll need:
Chicken tenders (you can find them pre-cut at the store)
Eggs (for coating)
Bread crumbs (preferably Panko for extra crunch)
Grated Parmesan cheese
Seasonings of your choice (garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper work great)
Cooking spray (to prevent sticking)
Optional: dipping sauces like ketchup or ranch for extra flavor
Preheat Your Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for a few minutes. This ensures your chicken tenders cook evenly and get that beautiful crispy texture.
Prepare the Chicken
While the air fryer is heating up, it’s time to get your chicken tenders ready. In a bowl, beat the eggs, and in another bowl, mix the bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and your chosen seasonings. This will be your coating.
Coating the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Make sure to press the coating onto the chicken so it sticks well.
Arrange in the Air Fryer
Once your chicken tenders are nicely coated, place them in the air fryer basket. Make sure they are not overcrowded to ensure even cooking. If necessary, cook them in batches.
Air Fry Your Tenders
Spritz the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray. This will help them achieve that golden brown crispiness. Then, set your air fryer timer for 10-12 minutes. Keep an eye on them, and halfway through, flip them to ensure both sides get that even, crispy finish.
Serve and Enjoy
Once the timer goes off and your chicken tenders are golden brown and crispy, it’s time to enjoy your delicious meal! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and some veggies or a salad on the side for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Making crispy Parmesan chicken tenders in the air fryer is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of the tender chicken, crunchy coating, and savory Parmesan cheese makes for a delectable meal that everyone will love. The air fryer’s magic ensures they’re not greasy but perfectly crispy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but be sure to adjust the cooking time and follow your air fryer’s instructions for frozen foods.
What can I serve with these chicken tenders?
These tenders go well with a variety of side dishes, such as fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Can I use other cheese types besides Parmesan?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different cheese varieties to create unique flavors.
Is an air fryer necessary for this recipe?
While an air fryer gives you that crispy texture with less oil, you can also bake these chicken tenders in the oven. It will take a bit longer, but the result is still delicious.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftover chicken tenders, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can reheat them in the air fryer or oven for a crispy finish.