Air Fryer Chicken Tenders Panko

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready for something crispy, juicy, and downright irresistible? 😋🔥 Today we’re whipping up Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Panko — golden on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with that homemade comfort flavor we all crave. 🍗💛

These aren’t your ordinary chicken tenders — we’re talking perfect crunch meets juicy bite! The secret? Panko breadcrumbs. 🥢 They give you that light, airy crispness without needing a deep fryer. The air fryer locks in moisture and browns the coating beautifully with just a fraction of the oil.

This recipe captures everything we love about classic comfort food — satisfying crunch, savory seasoning, and that warm, nostalgic bite — but keeps it simple, healthy, and mess-free. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, game-day snack, or lunchbox favorite, these tenders will become a go-to in your kitchen. So grab that air fryer, and let’s make magic happen! ✨

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Ingredients:

For the chicken:

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips
• ½ cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Optional for serving:

• Honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo dipping sauce
• Lemon wedges 🍋

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Step-by-Step Directions:

1️⃣ Prepare the coating station. Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with panko mixed with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

2️⃣ Coat the chicken. Pat the chicken strips dry. Dredge each piece first in flour (shake off excess), then dip into egg, and finally coat thoroughly in the seasoned panko mixture.

3️⃣ Preheat the air fryer. Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for 3 minutes.

4️⃣ Arrange the tenders. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange chicken tenders in a single layer (don’t overcrowd). Spray the tops lightly with more oil.

5️⃣ Air fry to perfection. Cook for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp. Internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

6️⃣ Serve and enjoy. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce and a squeeze of lemon for a zesty finish! 🍋

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Nutritional Information:

⏰ Prep Time: 10 minutes
🔥 Cooking Time: 10 minutes
⏳ Total Time: 20 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~360 kcal
🍽️ Servings: 4

Crispy on the outside, juicy inside, and made with just a spritz of oil — these tenders are a lighter twist on a classic fried favorite. They’re packed with lean protein and perfect for kids and adults alike. 🙌

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Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️