# Components:
→ Chicken
01 - 1 lb chicken breast tenders, trimmed
→ Breading
02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/2 tsp dried thyme
07 - 1/2 tsp salt
08 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
09 - Zest of 1 lemon
→ Dipping & Coating
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 2 tbsp milk
12 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
→ Optional Garnish
13 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
14 - Cranberry sauce or honey mustard, for serving
# Directions:
01 - Preheat the air fryer to 400°F for 3 minutes.
02 - Pat chicken tenders dry using paper towels.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs combined with milk, and one with panko, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, salt, pepper, and lemon zest mixed thoroughly.
04 - Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off excess, then dip into egg mixture, followed by coating in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure adhesion.
05 - Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil and place chicken tenders in a single layer, working in batches if necessary.
06 - Air fry for 8 minutes, flip tenders, then continue cooking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until golden and reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
07 - Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley and alongside cranberry sauce or honey mustard as desired.
