Save Crispy, golden chicken tenders with a festive twist—coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and air-fried for a healthier, crowd-pleasing appetizer or main dish.
I first served these chicken tenders at a holiday gathering and they were a huge hit with both kids and adults alike.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 500 g (1 lb) chicken breast tenders, trimmed
- Breading: 100 g (1 cup) panko breadcrumbs, 30 g (1/4 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried thyme, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp black pepper, zest of 1 lemon
- Dipping & Coating: 2 large eggs, 2 tbsp milk, 40 g (1/3 cup) all-purpose flour
- Optional Garnish: 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, cranberry sauce or honey mustard for serving
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.
- Prepare Chicken:
- Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- Set Up Bowls:
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs and milk, one with panko, Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon zest mixed together.
- Coat Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess. Dip in egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently for adhesion.
- Air Fry:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer, working in batches if needed. Air fry for 8 minutes, flip, then air fry for another 5–7 minutes or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
- Serve:
- Serve warm, garnished with parsley and accompanied by your favorite festive dip.
Save The family loves gathering around the table enjoying these tender, flavorful chicken pieces during the holiday season.
Required Tools
Air fryer, three shallow bowls, tongs, kitchen thermometer (recommended).
Allergen Information
Contains egg, milk (dairy), wheat (gluten), and cheese (milk). Always double-check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories: 280, Total Fat: 7 g, Carbohydrates: 23 g, Protein: 32 g per serving.
Save These chicken tenders make a perfect festive treat with a healthy twist that will please any crowd.
Recipe FAQ
- → How do I get the breadcrumb coating to stick well?
First, dredge the chicken in flour, then dip it in an egg and milk mixture before pressing it into the breadcrumb blend. This three-step coating helps the crumbs adhere evenly and stay crispy during cooking.
- → Can I use different herbs in the breadcrumb mixture?
Absolutely. While thyme adds a subtle earthiness, you can experiment with rosemary, oregano, or basil to customize the flavor to your liking.
- → What’s the best way to ensure even cooking in an air fryer?
Arrange tenders in a single layer with space around each piece. Flip halfway through cooking for uniform browning and crispiness.
- → How can I make the tenders spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick of heat without overpowering the other flavors.
- → Are there gluten-free options for the coating?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives to suit dietary needs while maintaining a crispy texture.