1.5poundschicken tendersor chicken breast cut into strips
0.5cupsall-purpose flour
2eggs
1.5cupspanko breadcrumbsunseasoned
0.25cupsgrated Parmesan cheesefinely grated
1teaspoonspaprika
1teaspoonsgarlic powder
0.5teaspoonsonion powder
1teaspoonskosher saltor to taste
0.5teaspoonsblack pepperfreshly ground
1tablespoonsolive oilfor spraying or brushing
1teaspoonshot sauceoptional, for egg wash
Instructions
Preparation Steps
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes. Lightly mist the basket with olive oil.
Set up three bowls. Bowl 1: whisk flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Bowl 2: beat eggs with a splash of water and hot sauce (if using). Bowl 3: combine panko and Parmesan.
Pat chicken dry. Dredge each piece in seasoned flour (shake off excess), dip in egg, then press into the panko-Parmesan mixture to coat all sides.
Arrange tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Lightly spray or brush with olive oil.
Air fry at 400°F for 5 minutes. Flip, spray any dry spots, and cook 4 to 6 minutes more, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Work in batches as needed. Let rest 2 minutes before serving. Enjoy with honey mustard, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra crunch, chill breaded tenders in the fridge for 10 minutes before air frying. Do not overcrowd the basket—leave space for airflow. To make gluten-free, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and gluten-free panko.