Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

Name: Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 lbs (680 g) chicken tenderloins; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1/3 cup grated parmesan; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp black pepper; Olive oil spray

Golden, crunchy air fryer chicken tenders with a juicy center — better than fast food and ready in 20 minutes.

By Adarsh · June 10, 2026

Golden crispy air fryer chicken tenders with dipping sauce on a white plate

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 12 min
Total: 27 min
Serves: 4 servings

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These air fryer chicken tenders have a shatteringly crisp panko coating and a tender, juicy inside — with a fraction of the oil of deep frying. They're a guaranteed hit with kids, perfect for dipping, and easy enough for any weeknight.

Instructions

1
Pat the chicken tenders dry and season lightly with salt.
2
Set up three bowls: flour in the first; beaten eggs in the second; panko mixed with parmesan, salt, garlic powder, paprika, and pepper in the third.
3
Coat each tender in flour, dip in egg, then press firmly into the panko mixture so the coating sticks.
4
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (204°C). Arrange tenders in a single layer and spray the tops lightly with oil.
5
Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway and spraying the other side, until deep golden and cooked to 165°F (74°C) inside.

Notes & Tips

Spraying the breading with a little oil is the secret to a deep-fried look and crunch. Don't skip pressing the panko on firmly, and work in batches so the tenders crisp instead of steam.