Crispy Air Fried Chicken (Print)

Golden chicken tenders with a crunchy seasoned coating, air-fried for a tender, flavorful finish.

# Ingredients:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.1 lbs chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

→ Breading

02 - 3/4 cup whole-wheat breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/2 tsp onion powder
07 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
08 - 1/2 tsp salt
09 - 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

→ Coating

10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 2 tbsp low-fat milk
12 - Olive oil spray, as needed

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat air fryer to 400°F for 5 minutes.
02 - Pat chicken tenders dry thoroughly with paper towels.
03 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and low-fat milk until combined.
04 - Combine whole-wheat breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a separate bowl.
05 - Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
06 - Place chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket and lightly spray both sides with olive oil.
07 - Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
08 - Serve immediately with preferred dipping sauce.

# Pro Tips:

01 -
  • You get all the crunch and none of the heavy feeling that comes after fried food.
  • The seasoned Parmesan crust adds a savory depth that makes even picky eaters come back for seconds.
  • It takes less than half an hour from start to finish, perfect for those nights when everyone's hungry and patience is thin.
  • The air fryer does most of the work, so you can tidy up or set the table while it cooks.
02 -
  • Don't skip drying the chicken, I learned this the hard way when my first batch came out with patches of bare, wet chicken.
  • Flip them gently at the halfway mark, the coating is delicate before it fully crisps.
  • If your air fryer runs hot, check them at 10 minutes to avoid overcooking.
03 -
  • Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken, it helps them stay put during cooking and creates a thicker crust.
  • Don't overcrowd the basket, air needs to circulate around each piece for even browning.
  • Use a meat thermometer if you're unsure, 75°C (165°F) is the safe zone and keeps the chicken juicy.
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