Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
  • ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
  • ¾ cup (85 g) panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) salt
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25 g) black pepper
  • Cooking spray or 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice chicken breasts into 1-inch wide strips if using whole breasts, then pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Set Up Breading Station: Place flour in one bowl; whisk egg and milk in a second bowl; combine panko breadcrumbs, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
  3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each tender in flour, dip into the egg mixture, and press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
  4. Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes.
  5. Cook the Tenders: Lightly spray or brush the tenders with oil, arrange them in a single layer in the air fryer basket, and air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and reaching 165°F (74°C) internally.
  6. Rest and Serve: Let the tenders rest for 2 minutes on a cooling rack or paper towels before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.