Looking for a quick, nutritious dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor? Enter air fryers! These handy kitchen gadgets make your favorite foods crispy and delicious—minus all the extra oil. To show off the magic, here’s a recipe for Zesty Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders that’s equal parts healthy, easy, and utterly irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: lemon wedges for squeezing on top
Instructions
Begin by patting the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel. In a large bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well, then add the chicken to the mix. Toss until all the tenders are evenly coated with that garlicky, herby goodness.
Next, work in the Parmesan cheese. Sprinkle it over the tenders, making sure each strip is lightly dusted. Preheat your air fryer to 380°F (190°C). Lightly coat the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking, then arrange the chicken in a single layer. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and a meat thermometer reads 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part.
Finally, remove the chicken and arrange on your plates. If you’re feeling fancy, give them a quick squeeze of lemon juice. Serve these tenders alongside a green salad, steamed veggies, or your favorite healthy side.
These Zesty Garlic-Parmesan Chicken Tenders are perfect for anyone looking to brighten weeknight meals without spending hours in the kitchen. The air fryer does most of the work, keeping things crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. That little boost of Parmesan and garlic satisfies cravings while staying gentle on the waistline. Feel free to swap the chicken for fish fillets or tofu, and experiment with other herbs or seasonings. This recipe is a keeper for busy families, mindful eaters, and anyone else who loves a simple, tasty dinner made easy.
Nathaniel Lee is an avid cook, drawing on his decades of home cooking and fine dining experience. He is a contributing chef at Mashed, and his recipes and contributions have been featured in Tasting Table, Edible Arrangements, Insanely Good Recipes, and The Daily Meal.
