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Crispy Chicken Tenders in the Air Fryer

Crispy Parmesan-crusted chicken tenders are air fried until golden and served with a buttery hot sauce for a flavorful meal that's easy enough for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 oz each), cut into large strips or chunks
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 cups Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp everything bagel seasoning
  • 1 tbsp each: chili powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning
  • 2 eggs, slightly beaten
  • ¼ cup milk
  • 1 tbsp hot sauce (plus more for dipping)
  • Ranch dressing, for dipping

For the Hot Sauce:

  • 1 stick butter (½ cup)
  • 1 cup hot sauce (preferably Frank’s RedHot)
  • 1 tbsp each: garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning
  • Parmesan cheese and chopped Italian parsley, for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Season chicken strips with salt and pepper.
  • In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and 1 tablespoon hot sauce.
  • In another bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, everything bagel seasoning, chili powder, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
  • Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to adhere the coating.
  • Air Fryer Method:
    Preheat air fryer to 400°F. Place chicken strips in the basket in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Air fry for about 15 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
  • Oven Method (if you don’t have an air fryer):
    Preheat oven to 400°F. Pour ½ cup olive oil onto a large baking sheet and place it in the oven until the oil is hot and slightly smoking. Carefully arrange the chicken strips on the hot sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and crispy on both sides.
  • Make the Hot Sauce. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over low heat. Stir in hot sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat gently until warm and combined.
  • Drizzle or toss the chicken with the hot sauce, or serve it on the side for dipping. Garnish with grated Parmesan and chopped Italian parsley. Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.