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golden crispy lemon parmesan chicken tenders with parsley lemon slices and creamy dipping sauce

15-Minute Lemon Parmesan Chicken Tenders (Air Fryer or Oven)

Crispy Lemon Parmesan Chicken Tenders made in the air fryer or oven in just 15 minutes. Juicy chicken coated in parmesan, lemon zest, and crispy breadcrumbs for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound chicken tenders
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko for extra crispiness
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil spray

Method
 

  1. Making lemon parmesan chicken tenders in the air fryer is extremely easy.

    Step 1

    Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).

    Step 2

    In one bowl, beat the egg.

    Step 3

    In another bowl mix:
    parmesan cheese
    breadcrumbs
    lemon zest
    garlic powder
    paprika
    salt
    black pepper

    Step 4

    Dip each chicken tender into the egg.

    Step 5

    Coat the chicken in the parmesan breadcrumb mixture.

    Step 6

    Place the tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer.

    Step 7

    Spray lightly with olive oil.

    Step 8

    Air fry for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and crispy.
    Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

    Oven Method

    If you prefer baking, you can make lemon parmesan chicken tenders in the oven.
    Preheat oven to 425°F
    Place tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet
    Bake for 15–18 minutes
    Flip halfway through for even crispiness
    They will come out crispy and flavorful just like the air fryer version.