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 this recipe to my family during the holidays and it was an instant 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
- Step 1:
- Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.
- Step 2:
- Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- Step 3:
- 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.
- Step 4:
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour shaking off excess Dip in egg mixture then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture pressing gently for adhesion.
- Step 5:
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer working in batches if needed.
- Step 6:
- Air fry for 8 minutes flip then air fry for another 5 7 minutes or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F).
- Step 7:
- Serve warm garnished with parsley and accompanied by your favorite festive dip.
Save This recipe always brings us together around the table sharing stories and laughter.
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 This festive chicken tender recipe is both easy and delicious perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What temperature should I set the air fryer to?
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for optimal crispness and even cooking.
- → How do I make the coating stick well?
First dredge the chicken in flour, then dip in beaten eggs mixed with milk, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture for full adhesion.
- → Can I make these tenders spicier?
Yes, adding 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix adds a nice spicy kick.
- → Are there gluten-free options available?
You can substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs to make this suitable for gluten-free diets.
- → What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
Try cranberry sauce, honey mustard, or spiced ketchup for festive and tasty dipping options.
- → How do I ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly?
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F), flipping halfway through air frying for even cooking.