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Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders - Golden, Juicy, and Easy

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 3/4 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (the powdery kind works best for coating)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (optional)
  • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk or water
  • 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
  • 2–3 tablespoons olive oil or neutral oil (for baking) or oil spray (for air fryer)
  • Lemon wedges, for serving (optional but recommended)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Favorite dipping sauces: marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or garlic aioli

Method
 

  1. Prep the oven or air fryer: For oven baking, preheat to 425°F (220°C) and line a sheet pan with parchment. Place a wire rack on top if you have it. For air fryer, preheat to 400°F (205°C) for 3–5 minutes.
  2. Pat the chicken dry: Use paper towels to remove excess moisture. Dry chicken equals crispier crust.
  3. Set up three bowls: In one, add flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In the second, whisk eggs and milk. In the third, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and black pepper.
  4. Coat the chicken: Dredge each piece in flour (shake off extra), dip in egg, then press firmly into the panko-Parmesan mixture. Press to help the crumbs stick and fully coat all sides.
  5. Arrange on the pan or air fryer basket: Space them out so air can circulate. For baking, drizzle or brush lightly with oil. For air frying, spray both sides with oil spray.
  6. Cook: Oven: Bake 14–18 minutes, flipping halfway. Add a light drizzle of oil after flipping if needed. They’re done when the coating is golden and the internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Air fryer: Cook 9–12 minutes, flipping at 6 minutes, until golden and cooked through.
  8. Optional extra crisp: Broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
  9. Rest and serve: Let sit 3 minutes to keep the juices in. Squeeze lemon over the top, sprinkle parsley, and serve with your favorite dips.