Pin It Discover the joy of crispy, golden chicken tenders with a festive twist that will elevate any gathering. These Air Fryer Festive Chicken Tenders are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust infused with Parmesan, smoked paprika, and lemon zest, delivering a flavorful bite that’s perfectly crisp without the extra oil. Using the air fryer means you get all the crunch and juiciness with less mess and fewer calories, making it a healthier choice for a crowd-pleasing appetizer or a satisfying main dish.
Pin It This recipe balances textured crunch with tender, juicy chicken inside, making it an irresistible choice for both family dinners and entertaining guests. The combination of smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, and lemon zest brings a subtle but vibrant flavor profile that complements the chicken perfectly. Pair these tenders with your favorite festive dips for a bright and satisfying bite every time.
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
- 1. Preheat the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) for 3 minutes.
- 2. Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- 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.
- 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.
- 5. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer, working in batches if needed.
- 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).
- 7. Serve warm, garnished with parsley and accompanied by your favorite festive dip.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the crispiest tenders, mist the coated chicken lightly with oil before placing them in the air fryer basket. Use a kitchen thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 74°C (165°F). If your air fryer basket is small, cook the tenders in batches to avoid overcrowding, which ensures even crisping.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To add extra heat, stir 1/2 tsp of cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture. For those with gluten sensitivities, substitute gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs without compromising the crispiness. Try different herbs like rosemary or oregano to customize the flavor to your liking. The recipe also pairs beautifully with various dipping sauces such as spiced ketchup or honey mustard.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these chicken tenders warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and freshness. Complement them with festive dips like cranberry sauce or honey mustard for a sweet and tangy contrast. They make a fantastic party appetizer, snack, or a satisfying main course alongside fresh salads or roasted vegetables.
Pin It With minimal prep and wholesome ingredients, these Air Fryer Festive Chicken Tenders combine convenience, flavor, and nutrition effortlessly. Whether for a busy weeknight dinner or a festive celebration, they promise crunchy satisfaction that everyone will enjoy. Give this recipe a try and make your mealtime deliciously festive with less fuss and maximum flavor.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What temperature is best for air frying chicken tenders?
Set the air fryer to 200°C (400°F) to ensure a crispy and golden crust while cooking the chicken evenly.
- → How can I make the chicken tenders extra crispy?
Lightly mist the coated tenders with oil before air frying to enhance crispiness and golden color.
- → Can I substitute the panko breadcrumbs?
Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions without sacrificing texture.
- → What is the purpose of lemon zest in the coating?
Lemon zest adds a fresh, bright flavor that balances the richness of the cheese and spices in the breadcrumb mix.
- → How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F) and the coating is crispy and golden brown.