# Components:
→ Chicken
01 - 1 lb chicken breast tenders, trimmed
→ Breading
02 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
03 - 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
04 - 1 tsp smoked paprika
05 - 1 tsp garlic powder
06 - 1/2 tsp dried thyme
07 - 1/2 tsp salt
08 - 1/4 tsp black pepper
09 - Zest of 1 lemon
→ Dipping & Coating
10 - 2 large eggs
11 - 2 tbsp milk
12 - 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
→ Optional Garnish
13 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
14 - Cranberry sauce or honey mustard, for serving
# Method steps:
01 - Set the air fryer to 400°F and preheat for 3 minutes.
02 - Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
03 - Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour; one with beaten eggs mixed with milk; one with panko, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, thyme, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest combined.
04 - Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off excess, dip into egg mixture, then press firmly into breadcrumb blend for even coating.
05 - Lightly spray basket with oil; place tenders in a single layer, using batches if needed.
06 - Air fry for 8 minutes, flip tenders, then continue cooking for an additional 5 to 7 minutes until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
07 - Serve warm garnished with chopped parsley and accompanied by preferred festive dips.
