Step-by-step instructions
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your tenders start cooking evenly and crisply.
Set up your breading station: In one bowl, place the flour. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each chicken tender: First, coat the tender in flour, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally coat it with the Panko breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each tender is evenly coated for the best crunch.
Prepare the air fryer basket: Spray it lightly with cooking spray. Then, arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly.
Spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray to enhance crispiness.
Cook in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through to achieve that uniform golden-brown color and ensure they’re cooked through.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, whether it’s ranch, BBQ, or a spicy aioli for an extra kick.
Best ways to enjoy it
These Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders shine brightest when paired with your favorite sides. Consider serving them with a fresh garden salad for a light meal, or plate them alongside crispy fries or sweet potato wedges for a classic combination. For a fun twist, set up a dipping station featuring various sauces—you could have honey mustard, garlic aioli, and even a spicy Sriracha dip to delight everyone at the table!
Storage and reheating tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (though they’re unlikely!), store your Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them back into the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes until they’re warmed through and crispy again. For longer storage, you can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet and then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag once frozen. They’ll keep for about 2 months.
Helpful cooking tips
Temperature matters: Ensure your air fryer is preheated to achieve the best crispiness. Unheated air fryers can result in soggy tenders.
Don’t overcrowd: Cook the chicken tenders in batches if necessary. This allows hot air to circulate properly around each piece for that perfect texture.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the Panko mixture. A bit of cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning can switch things up for your taste preferences.
Creative twists
While the classic version is always a hit, you can get creative with your Panko chicken tenders. Try adding some grated Parmesan into the Panko mixture for a cheesy flavor. For a different taste profile, swap out the garlic powder for a dash of curry powder or smoked paprika for an extra depth of flavor. Want to make it even healthier? Use skinless chicken breasts instead of tenders for a leaner option.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
Preparation and cooking time typically takes around 20-30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick meal!
Can I use different types of breadcrumbs?
Yes! If you prefer a different texture, feel free to use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a unique crunch.
Are there any recommended dipping sauces for these tenders?
Absolutely! Classic choices include BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. You can also try a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick!
