Description
This Air Fried Chicken Tenderloin recipe offers a crispy, healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken. Using a seasoned panko and Parmesan crust, these tenderloins are air fried to golden perfection, delivering a deliciously crunchy texture without the excess oil.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenderloins, trimmed of any excess fat
Breading Station
- 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
- 2 large Eggs, beaten
- 1 cup Panko Bread Crumbs
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 tbsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tbsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
- 1 tsp Dried Oregano
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- 1/4 tsp Black Pepper
Other
- Cooking Spray (Olive Oil or Avocado Oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture, helping the breading stick better.
- Set up Breading Station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and combine the panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper in a third dish. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.
- Flour Coating: Dredge each chicken tenderloin in the flour, shaking off any excess to avoid clumps.
- Egg Wash: Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring an even coat and allowing excess to drip off.
- Breadcrumb Coating: Press the egg-coated chicken firmly into the panko mixture, coating all sides evenly. Repeat this on the other side for full coverage.
- Repeat: Continue steps 3 through 5 for all the chicken tenderloins.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure optimal cooking temperature.
- Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken tenderloins in a single layer inside the basket, avoiding overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenderloins with cooking spray to promote crispiness.
- Air Fry: Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through. Cook until the chicken reaches a golden brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Check for Doneness: After 8 minutes, check the chicken. If it is not golden brown, continue cooking in 1-2 minute increments, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Repeat if Necessary: Cook any remaining batches by repeating the arrangement and cooking steps.
- Rest the Chicken: Allow the cooked chicken tenderloins to rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
- Serve Immediately: Serve hot and crispy with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken is patted dry to help the breading adhere properly.
- Do not overcrowd the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Adjust cooking times slightly based on air fryer model and thickness of chicken tenderloins.
- Letting the chicken rest helps keep it juicy and tender.
- These tenderloins pair well with dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
