If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful snack or meal that comes together quickly and effortlessly, this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe is here to become your new go-to. Imagine golden, crunchy chicken tenders with the perfect balance of cheesy Parmesan, fragrant herbs, and just the right touch of spice, all made healthier in the air fryer. This recipe delivers that irresistible combination, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or simply whenever you need a satisfying bite. Trust me, once you try these chicken tenders, you’ll wonder how you ever made them any other way!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A long white rectangular plate holds eight golden brown crispy breaded chicken strips arranged in two neat rows, with a sprinkling of green herbs both on and around the chicken pieces. At the top left corner of the plate, a small white round bowl filled with thick red ketchup adds a pop of color. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a blue patterned cloth partially visible on the left side. In the background on the right, there is a glimpse of a white bowl with colorful mixed vegetables. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building up layers of flavor, texture, and that gorgeous golden color.

Panko breadcrumbs: These give the tenders an extra crispy and airy crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory richness that beautifully complements the herbs.
Garlic powder: Delivers subtle pungency and depth without overpowering the dish.
Thyme: Infuses a delicate earthiness that pairs well with the chicken.
Dried parsley: Offers a mild, fresh herb flavor that balances the stronger spices.
Paprika: Provides a smoky warmth and lovely color to the coating.
Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance and tie all flavors together.
Chicken tenderloins: Tender, juicy, and perfect for quick cooking in the air fryer.
Olive oil: Helps the coating crisp up beautifully and adds a touch of richness.

How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Coating Mix

Start by combining the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl. Stir everything together until well mixed. This aromatic, cheesy, and herb-filled coating is what makes these tenders irresistible.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Pour the olive oil into another shallow bowl. Take each chicken tenderloin and dip it into the olive oil, ensuring all sides are lightly coated. Then dredge the chicken through the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well on both sides. This two-step dipping process ensures a crispy, flavorful crust.

Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Preheating is key for even cooking and to achieve that delightful crunch on the outside of your chicken tenders.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken in Batches

Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer inside the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch each other so they crisp evenly. Cook for about 6 minutes per side or until the outside is golden and crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Cooking in batches helps maintain the perfect texture and prevents overcrowding.

Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy

Once cooked, carefully remove the tenders from the air fryer. If you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve these gorgeous tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauce like ketchup, honey mustard, or even a spicy aioli for an extra kick.

How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe

The image shows five pieces of golden brown crispy fried strips with a crunchy texture, lying side by side on a long white plate. Each piece is coated with a mix of herbs and breadcrumbs, giving a speckled look of green and orange on the crust. Bright green fresh parsley leaves are scattered under and around the strips, adding a fresh contrast to the warm colors of the fried food. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, with some scattered crumbs and herbs adding a touch of casual appeal. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a delightful burst of color and fresh aroma. For a touch of zing, a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the rich flavors and balances the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with crisp garden salads, creamy mashed potatoes, or even some roasted vegetables. For a fun twist, serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries or warm garlic bread to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn them into a crowd-pleasing sandwich layered with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce on a soft bun. Alternatively, chop the tenders and toss them into a hearty salad or pasta to add protein and texture. The versatility of this Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe makes it perfect for a variety of meal ideas.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered helps maintain their crispiness and flavor for the next meal or snack.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, freeze the cooked tenders by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag once frozen. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months and are perfect for quick meal prep.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-air-fryer crispness, reheat the tenders in your air fryer or oven at 375°F for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crunchy.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Absolutely! While panko breadcrumbs give you that extra crunch, regular breadcrumbs work just fine and will still make delicious chicken tenders.

What dipping sauces go best with this recipe?

Classic choices like ketchup and honey mustard are great, but you can also try ranch, BBQ sauce, spicy mayo, or even a squeeze of fresh lemon alongside a garlic aioli for a gourmet touch.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap out the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the tenders crispy without any gluten.

How do I ensure the chicken is fully cooked?

Using a meat thermometer is the best way to check doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure safety and juiciness.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh chicken tenders for even cooking. If you use frozen, make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before breading and air frying.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Chicken Tenders with Parmesan and Herbs Recipe is truly a game-changer for any chicken lover looking for quick, tasty, and crispy tenders. The blend of Parmesan, herbs, and spices creates a flavor-packed coating that you’re going to want to make again and again. It’s simple, satisfying, and comes together faster than you might expect. Trust me, once you give it a try, these chicken tenders will become a beloved staple in your kitchen!