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Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Tenders

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    Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Tenders

    Experience the delightful crunch and savory flavor of Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Tenders. These tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, using an air fryer to achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a family gathering, or a game day snack, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit. With a delicious Parmesan coating, they offer a gourmet touch to a classic favorite.

    Chicken tenders, also known as chicken fingers, chicken strips, or chicken fillets, have been a staple in American cuisine since the mid-20th century. Originally created as a convenient, handheld food for children, chicken tenders have evolved into a beloved dish enjoyed by people of all ages. The introduction of the air fryer has revolutionized the way we cook this dish, allowing for a healthier preparation method without compromising on taste or texture.

    Ingredients

    For the Chicken Tenders:

    • 1 pound chicken tenderloins
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon onion powder
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
    • 2 large eggs
    • 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

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    For the Dipping Sauce (optional):

    • 1/2 cup mayonnaise
    • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions

    Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

    1. Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. This helps the coating adhere better and ensures a crispy finish.
    2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, combine the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. In the second dish, beat the eggs. In the third dish, mix the Panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.

    Step 2: Bread the Chicken

    1. Coat each chicken tenderloin in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
    2. Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is completely covered.
    3. Dredge the chicken in the Panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well.

    Step 3: Air Fry the Chicken

    1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes.
    2. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
    3. Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Do not overcrowd the basket; you may need to cook in batches.
    4. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with cooking spray. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust.
    5. Air fry the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

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    Step 4: Prepare the Dipping Sauce (Optional)

    1. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and lemon juice until smooth.
    2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    3. Serve the dipping sauce alongside the chicken tenders.

    Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

    1. Transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a serving platter.
    2. Serve immediately with the optional dipping sauce or your favorite condiments.

    Tips for the Best Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Tenders

    • Use fresh chicken tenderloins for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry.
    • Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket. Cooking in batches ensures even cooking and a crispy exterior.
    • Experiment with seasonings. Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick or some Italian seasoning for a herbaceous touch.
    • Serve with a variety of dipping sauces. Ranch, barbecue sauce, and honey mustard are all great options.

    Nutritional Information

    Each serving of Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Tenders (without dipping sauce) contains approximately:

    • Calories: 320
    • Protein: 28g
    • Carbohydrates: 20g
    • Fat: 14g
    • Fiber: 1g
    • Sugar: 1g

    Conclusion

    Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious, healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. They are easy to make, incredibly flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you are preparing a quick family dinner or hosting a party, these tenders are sure to impress.

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