Air Fryer Panko Chicken Tenders Recipe

4.67 from 148 votes

Quick and easy to make, these air fryer Panko chicken tenders are one tasty bite! Coated in crispy breadcrumbs and ready in 30 minutes!

Step-by-step photos can be seen below the recipe card.

Prep Time10

Cook Time13

Total Time23

Course: Appetizer, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Servings: people

Add the melted butter to a shallow bowl.
6 tablespoons unsalted butter
In a second shallow bowl, mix together the Panko, parmesan, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
1 cup Panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup finely shredded Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon ground black pepper, ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Dredge the chicken tenders. First, dip a tender in the melted butter then dredge in the Panko breading. Set aside on a plate or sheet pan and repeat with all tenders.
1½ pounds chicken tenders
Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Transfer breaded tenders to the air fryer in a single layer (cooking in batches, if needed). Air fry at 400°F for 11-13 minutes. The tenders are done when they are fully cooked (165°F) and golden brown. Repeat with remaining tenders.
Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!

The easiest cut to use for this recipe is chicken tenders. They're already the perfect shape, so there's no prep required. But when tenders aren't available, I like to use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips.

I prefer to use Panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest tenders. You can use classic breadcrumbs or Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs for a different flavor.

Storage: Store air fryer chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.