Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Tenders
Today, I’m thrilled to share a delightful twist on a family favorite: Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Tenders. This recipe combines the crispiness of chicken tenders with the rich, herby flavors of pesto, all made simple and healthier in the air fryer.
Why Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Tenders?
Using an air fryer for this recipe not only reduces the amount of oil needed but also provides a wonderfully crispy texture to the chicken. The homemade pesto adds a fresh and vibrant touch, making these tenders irresistible. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a fun appetizer for your next gathering!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup pine nuts
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instructions
- Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped. Gradually add olive oil while processing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Season chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs.
- Cook in Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
- Serve with Pesto: Serve the hot chicken tenders with a side of fresh pesto for dipping.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 12 minutes
- Total time: 27 minutes
Serving Size
This recipe serves 4 people.
Nutritional Information and Benefits
| Nutrient | Quantity per serving | Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 26g | Helps in muscle repair and growth |
| Healthy Fats | 18g | Supports heart health and reduces inflammation |
Why Choose These Ingredients?
The combination of fresh basil and pine nuts not only provides a burst of flavor but also includes antioxidants that are great for your health. Using the air fryer allows for a healthier version of fried chicken without sacrificing texture or taste.
Tips and Variations
For a gluten-free version, use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can also try different nuts in the pesto, like walnuts or almonds, for a different flavor profile.
Thank you for visiting Easy Peasy Recipe! I hope you enjoy making and savoring these Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Tenders. For more tasty and easy recipes, keep exploring our site. Happy cooking!
SEND THIS RECIPE TO YOUR EMAIL!
Enter your email and I’ll send it to your inbox. Plus, you’ll get new recipes every week!
Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Servings: This recipe serves 4 people.
Calories: 464Kcal
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients
1 pound chicken tenders
1 cup fresh basil leaves
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup pine nuts
2 cloves garlic
1/2 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
Instruction :
Prepare the Pesto: In a food processor, combine basil, Parmesan, pine nuts, and garlic. Pulse until coarsely chopped. Gradually add olive oil while processing until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Coat the Chicken: Season chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and then coat with panko breadcrumbs. Cook in Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through. Serve with Pesto: Serve the hot chicken tenders with a side of fresh pesto for dipping.
