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Air Fried Chicken Tenderloin: The Crispiest, Healthier Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 95 reviews

This Air Fried Chicken Tenderloin recipe delivers the crispiest, golden-brown chicken that’s healthier than traditional fried chicken. Using an air fryer and a flavorful panko-Parmesan coating with aromatic spices, these tenderloins come out juicy on the inside and crunchy on the outside, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.

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

Others

  • Cooking Spray (Olive Oil or Avocado Oil)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry using paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better and ensures crispy results.
  2. Set up Breading Station: Arrange three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and a third with a mixture of panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly.
  3. Flour Coating: Dredge each chicken tenderloin in the flour, shaking off any excess to create a light base layer that helps the egg wash stick.
  4. Egg Wash: Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off for an even coating.
  5. Breadcrumb Coating: Press the egg-coated chicken firmly into the panko-Parmesan mixture, ensuring an even coating on all sides. Repeat on the opposite side for full coverage.
  6. Repeat Process: Continue the flour, egg, and breadcrumb coating process with the remaining chicken tenderloins until all are breaded.
  7. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even cooking and crispiness from the start.
  8. Prepare Air Fryer Basket: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking and promote browning.
  9. Arrange the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken tenderloins in a single layer inside the basket. Avoid overcrowding to allow air circulation for optimal crisping; cook in batches if necessary.
  10. Spray with Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken with cooking spray to enhance browning and crispness.
  11. Air Fry: Air fry the chicken for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. Cook until the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
  12. Check for Doneness: After 8 minutes, check the chicken. If it has not reached desired crispness, continue cooking in 1-2 minute increments, checking frequently to prevent overcooking.
  13. Repeat for Remaining Chicken: Cook any remaining batches by repeating the arrangement, spraying, and air frying steps.
  14. Rest the Chicken: Allow the cooked chicken tenderloins to rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in juices and maintain crispness.
  15. Serve Immediately: Serve the hot, crispy chicken tenderloins with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes for a delicious meal.

Notes

  • For best results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket as it reduces crispiness.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
  • Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of flavor and helps in browning; do not skip it unless dietary restrictions apply.
  • Cooking spray with healthy oils like olive or avocado oil provides good crispness without excess fat.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the air fryer to maintain crispiness rather than using a microwave.

Keywords: Air Fried Chicken Tenderloin, Crispy Chicken Recipe, Healthy Fried Chicken, Air Fryer Chicken, Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Find it online: https://spiceupwithsophie.com/air-fried-chicken-tenderloin-the-crispiest-healthier-recipe/