Oh, friend! Let me tell you about my new obsession: Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins. You know those evenings when you crave something crispy, juicy, and fully satisfying but don’t want to spend an eternity in the kitchen? That’s where this gem of a recipe comes swooping in to save the day. I whipped these up for dinner the other night, and honestly, they reminded me of those childhood dinners where I would sneak a few extra pieces before the table was set. Let’s just say, my family could barely keep up!
What I love most about these air fryer chicken tenderloins is that they are so versatile and easy to make. You can whip them up for a quick weeknight meal, serve them as party appetizers, or even throw some crispy tenderloins on a salad for a nutrient-packed lunch! I mean, who doesn’t want a healthified version of fried chicken ready within 20 minutes? Let’s get cooking, shall we?
What’s in Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins?
Chicken Tenderloins: These little guys are the stars of our show, and they make for a juicy and tender base. Trust me; you can’t go wrong with tenderloins!
Breadcrumbs: Whether you choose panko or regular, breadcrumbs create that wonderful crunchy coating we all love. Panko gives extra texture, but regular works just fine if that’s what you have on hand.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This adds a salty, nutty flavor that absolutely elevates our dish. I usually opt for a good-quality grated Parmesan for the best taste.
Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: These pantry staples pack a flavor punch without the hassle. I could put garlic powder on practically anything!
Paprika: This adds a touch of smokiness. If you’re feeling adventurous, go ahead and use smoked paprika for a deeper flavor!
Dried Oregano & Dried Parsley: These herbs bring freshness to the table without needing to chop anything! They pair so well with chicken.
Salt & Black Pepper: Simple, yet essential. Seasoning really brings all the flavors together!
Egg: This binds everything together for that perfect coating! Easy as pie!
Cooking Spray or Olive Oil: A little spray or drizzle ensures that the tenders crisp up beautifully without extra grease.
Optional Dipping Sauce: You can’t forget about the sauce! BBQ or sweet and sour sauce can take your dipping experience to the next level.
Is Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins Good for You?
If you’re anything like me, you appreciate when delicious food aligns with moderately good health. These air fryer chicken tenderloins check quite a few boxes! The chicken is packed with lean protein, helping you feel fuller for longer while supporting muscle health. Using air frying instead of traditional frying cuts down on the oil dramatically, meaning less fat and fewer calories, yay!
But let’s be real; the breadcrumbs do add some carbs to the mix. Consider using whole-grain breadcrumbs for a little extra fiber. Another thing to keep an eye on is the sodium content, especially if you’re among the health-conscious. If you’re using store-bought breadcrumbs or sauces, check for added salts. Everything in moderation, right?
Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken tenderloins
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg
– Cooking spray or olive oil for spraying
– Optional: dipping sauce (such as BBQ or sweet and sour sauce)
This recipe serves about 4 people. Perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering!
How to Make Easy Air Fryer Chicken Tenderloins?
1. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 5 minutes. This helps the chicken cook evenly and crisps up nicely!
2. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all those tasty seasonings!
3. In another shallow bowl, whisk the egg until well blended and frothy. You want it just right for coating those tenderloins!
4. Time to get your hands a bit messy! Dip each chicken tenderloin into the egg, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure to press gently so the coating sticks!
5. Place the coated chicken tenderloins in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd – let that hot air circulate!
6. Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil. This step is crucial for getting that golden-brown finish.
7. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. You want to ensure the chicken is cooked through until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Voila, crispy goodness!
8. Serve immediately with your choice of dipping sauce, and enjoy the deliciousness you just created!
Dip It Up, Baby!
If you really want to take these air fryer chicken tenderloins to the next level, consider the dipping sauces! BBQ sauce offers that sweet and tangy bite, while sweet and sour sauce delivers a unique flavor explosion. Feeling adventurous? Try creating a spicy mayo or a creamy garlic dip! You could also pair these crispy tenders with a fresh salad for a delightful meal.
I really hope you give this recipe a try! It’s a real crowd-pleaser and can make even the pickiest eaters smile. Let me know how yours turn out, and what creative dipping sauces you invent! Happy cooking!
