Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on the classic fried chicken tenders. Using the air fryer to cook these chicken tenders gives them the same crispy exterior you love but with much less oil. The Parmesan crust adds a savory, cheesy flavor that perfectly complements the tender, juicy chicken inside. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these crispy chicken tenders are sure to satisfy your cravings.
1. What Makes Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders So Special?
These chicken tenders are special for several reasons:
- Crispy and golden: The air fryer gives them the perfect crunch without the need for deep frying.
- Flavor-packed: The Parmesan crust is rich, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, making every bite flavorful.
- Healthier option: By using the air fryer, you reduce the amount of oil needed, making these chicken tenders a much healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken.
- Quick and easy: With minimal prep time and a fast cooking process, these tenders can be on the table in just about 20 minutes.
2. How to Make Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8 tenders)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup Panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray (olive oil or avocado oil works best)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Prep the Chicken
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This will help the coating stick better. Season the chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper on both sides. - Set Up the Dredging Station
In one shallow bowl, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third shallow bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese and Panko breadcrumbs. - Coat the Chicken
Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, coating it evenly. Dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess egg to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the Parmesan-Panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks. - Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes to ensure it’s hot and ready for the chicken tenders. - Cook the Chicken Tenders
Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Spray the chicken tenders with a light coating of cooking spray to help them crisp up.
Air fry the chicken tenders at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and crispy on the outside, and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). - Serve
Once the chicken tenders are cooked through and crispy, remove them from the air fryer and serve immediately. You can garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley for a little extra flavor.
3. Health Benefits of Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
These Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also offer some health benefits:
High in Protein
Chicken is a fantastic source of lean protein, which helps with muscle repair, immune function, and keeping you fuller for longer.
Lower in Fat
By using the air fryer instead of deep frying, you significantly reduce the amount of oil used, making these tenders a much lighter option compared to traditional fried chicken.
Calcium
The Parmesan cheese adds a healthy dose of calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
Lower Carbs
These tenders are relatively low in carbs, especially when compared to breaded or fried alternatives that use flour or breadcrumbs in high quantities.
Customizable
You can tweak the ingredients to suit your dietary needs. For example, use almond flour instead of regular flour for a gluten-free version.
4. Creative Variations for Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Once you master the basic recipe, try these fun twists to switch up the flavor:
Spicy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick. You can also drizzle Sriracha sauce over the cooked tenders for extra heat.
Lemon Parmesan Chicken Tenders
After cooking, drizzle the tenders with lemon juice and zest for a fresh citrusy burst that pairs perfectly with the Parmesan.
Herb-Infused Parmesan Tenders
Add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for an herbaceous twist.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
For extra garlic flavor, mix garlic powder or fresh minced garlic into the breadcrumb mixture or drizzle a garlic butter sauce over the tenders after cooking.
Crispy Parmesan and Bacon Tenders
For a savory addition, sprinkle crispy bacon bits over the chicken tenders before air frying, or mix bacon bits into the breadcrumbs for a smoky flavor.
5. Pairing and Serving Suggestions
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of side dishes:
Perfect Pairings:
- Salads: Pair with a light Caesar salad or a green salad with balsamic vinaigrette for a refreshing balance to the richness of the chicken tenders.
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch dressing, marinara sauce, honey mustard, or garlic aioli for dipping.
- Vegetables: Pair with steamed broccoli, roasted carrots, or zucchini fries for a well-rounded meal.
- Potatoes: Serve with crispy sweet potato fries, mashed potatoes, or garlic roasted potatoes for a filling side.
Drinks to Pair:
- White Wine: A chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully with the crispy, cheesy chicken.
- Iced Tea: A refreshing glass of unsweetened iced tea complements the richness of the Parmesan crust.
- Sparkling Water: A lemon-infused sparkling water is the perfect non-alcoholic drink to refresh the palate.
6. Tips for Storing and Reheating Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
If you happen to have any leftovers (though they rarely last long!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
Storage:
- Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure the tenders have cooled completely before sealing them in the container.
Reheating:
- Air fryer: To maintain the crispy texture, reheat the chicken tenders in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-5 minutes.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the tenders on a baking sheet, and bake for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.
- Microwave: While it’s not ideal for crispiness, you can microwave the tenders for 30-45 seconds. If you want them crispier, follow up with a minute in the air fryer or oven.
Freezing:
- To freeze, arrange the cooked tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the air fryer or oven.
FAQs About Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes! You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips. Just adjust the cooking time since they may take a bit longer than tenders.
2. Can I make these tenders without breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can use almond flour or crushed cornflakes as a substitute for breadcrumbs. This is a great option for a gluten-free version.
3. Can I use store-bought Parmesan cheese?
While freshly grated Parmesan provides the best flavor, you can use store-bought pre-grated Parmesan in a pinch. Just make sure it’s 100% Parmesan.
4. Can I make these tenders spicy?
Yes! Add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for extra heat.
5. How do I get the chicken tenders extra crispy?
Be sure to pat the chicken dry before coating it and lightly spray the tenders with oil before air frying. This will help achieve that golden, crispy texture.
6. Can I bake these chicken tenders instead of using an air fryer?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown, flipping them halfway through. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly compared to the air fryer.
7. How long do the chicken tenders take to cook?
The chicken tenders will take about 10-12 minutes to cook in the air fryer, depending on their size and thickness.
8. Can I use a different cheese for the crust?
Yes! Parmesan is ideal for its sharp flavor, but you can try Mozzarella for a milder taste, or a blend of cheddar and Parmesan for a cheesier crust.
9. Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
You can prepare the tenders and refrigerate them (before air frying) for up to 1 day. Air fry them when you’re ready to serve.
10. Are these chicken tenders kid-friendly?
Yes! The crispy, cheesy coating makes these tenders a big hit with kids. Serve them with a favorite dipping sauce like ketchup or honey mustard.
Conclusion
Parmesan Crusted Air Fryer Chicken Tenders are a crispy, flavorful, and healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. With a cheesy, golden crust and tender, juicy chicken inside, these tenders are a perfect snack, appetizer, or main dish. Quick, easy, and customizable, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen! 🍗🧀🍽