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If you’re craving something quick, cheesy, and oh-so-crispy, these Air Fryer Chicken Parmesan Tenders are about to become your new best friend. Trust me, they’re everything you need for a fabulous meal without the fuss. They come together in only 30 minutes!
Imagine this: juicy chicken tenders with a perfectly crispy coating, topped with rich marinara and gooey mozzarella. Every bite is a flavor explosion that will have you questioning why you ever ordered takeout. These tenders are versatile too – serve them over pasta, slap them in a sub, or pair them with a fresh salad if you’re feeling healthy-ish.
If you love crispy chicken check out my Crispy Chicken Cutlets or McDonald’s Snack Wrap Recipe.
Ingredients for air fryer chicken parmesan tenders
Chicken Tenderloins- Use one pound of chicken tenderloins for this recipe. They cook quickly and stay juicy.
Eggs- You’ll need two large eggs to help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
Panko Breadcrumbs- Three-quarters of a cup adds extra crunch.
Italian Breadcrumbs- Three-quarters of a cup brings a flavorful, seasoned coating.
Garlic Powder- Half a tablespoon for garlic flavor.
Italian Seasoning- Two teaspoons to add those classic Italian herbs.
Salt and Pepper- Season to taste to enhance the flavors.
Grated Parmesan Cheese- Half a cup for a cheesy, savory touch.
Olive Oil Spray- Helps the tenders get crispy in the air fryer.
Sliced Mozzarella Cheese- I like to use fresh sliced mozzarella for ease. It melts beautifully on the tenders.
The full recipe with measurements is below on the recipe card.
How to make chicken parmesan tenders
Whisk the eggs in a small bowl. Mix the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and cheese in another bowl. Dip each chicken tender in the egg, shake off excess, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Place the tenders in the air fryer basket without overlapping. Cook at 400°F for 6 minutes, flip, and cook for another 4 minutes.
Spoon marinara sauce on top and add a slice or two of mozzarella cheese. Cook at 400°F for 5 more minutes. Serve and enjoy! Add fresh basil on top if you like.
Yes, but adjust the cooking time. Cook frozen tenders at 400°F for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. Add marinara and cheese, then cook for an additional 5 minutes.
Dipping your chicken in egg helps the breadcrumbs adhere evenly to the outside of the cutlet. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs into the chicken.
Cook the chicken tenders at 400°F for the best results.
Air fryer chicken parmesan tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 2 large eggs
- ¾ c panko breadcrumbs
- ¾ c Italian breadcrumbs
- ½ tbsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- ½ c parmesan cheese , grated
- olive oil spray
- marinara sauce
- sliced mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp basil , chopped for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl whisk together the eggs. In another small bowl mix together both breadcrumbs, garlic powder, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning and cheese.
- Dip a chicken tender into the egg, shake, then coat with the bread crumb mixture, set aside. Repeat until all the chicken is coated.
- Place the tenders into your air fryer basket, don’t overlap. Cook on 400 for 6 minutes then flip and cook for an additional 4 minutes. Spoon marinara sauce on top of each tender. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each tender, I like to split the cheese in half then place it.
- Put back in the air fryer on 400 for an additional 5 minutes.
- Take it out, eat & enjoy! I recommend adding some fresh basil on top.
Video
@theres.food.at.home Air fryer chicken parm tenders. #foodtok #airfryer ♬ original sound – August
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
