5-Ingredient Air Fryer Lemon Chicken

Chicken tenderloins are dredged in egg and Panko, then air-fried to create a crispy crust. A little salt and squeeze of lemon brings this dish to life!

Servings servings

Calories 443kcal

Author Sara

Ingredients

6 chicken tenderloins
2 large eggs
1 ½ cups Panko crumbs
Kosher salt to taste
2 lemons halved divided
Extra halved lemons for additional flavor optional

Instructions

In a small bowl, beat the eggs (I used a loaf pan).
Pour the Panko into another large, shallow dish.
Coat the chicken on both sides with egg and then dredge both sides in the Panko. Place the chicken into the air fryer as you go.
Set the air fryer to 400 degrees for 14 minutes, flipping the chicken halfway through.
Transfer the pieces of chicken to a baking pan lined with paper toweling and immediately sprinkle with some salt and squeeze over a generous amount of lemon juice with the four halves of lemon.
Serve with extra lemon halves for additional flavor.

Notes

Optimal Coating Technique: Ensure an even and crispy coating on your chicken tenderloins by thoroughly coating them with egg before dredging in Panko crumbs. This helps the crumbs adhere better and creates a satisfying crunch when air-fried.
Lemon Infusion: Maximize the lemony flavor by squeezing fresh lemon juice over the chicken immediately after air-frying. This not only adds a bright citrusy taste but also keeps the chicken tender and moist. Additionally, consider placing extra halved lemons in the air fryer alongside the chicken for enhanced flavor infusion.
Temperature and Timing: To achieve perfectly cooked and juicy chicken, set your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and cook the chicken tenderloins for 14 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking process. This ensures even cooking and a golden-brown exterior without overcooking the chicken. Adjust the timing slightly based on the thickness of your chicken tenderloins and the specific model of your air fryer.

Nutrition