- Prepare the Chicken Strips:
- Season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one for the flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, and optional Parmesan cheese.
- Bread the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour and shake off the excess.
- Dip next into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off.
- Finally, coat the chicken thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs onto the chicken to ensure they stick well.
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes. Preheating helps achieve a crispy texture as soon as the chicken starts cooking.
- Cook the Chicken Fingers:
- Spray the air fryer basket with non-stick cooking spray or lightly brush with oil to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the breaded chicken fingers in a single layer in the air fryer basket. You might need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Serving:
- Serve the chicken fingers hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or a homemade ranch dressing.
Serving Suggestions
Air fryer chicken fingers can be paired with a variety of sides:
- Classic: Serve with French fries or sweet potato fries and a side of coleslaw.
- Healthy: Opt for a side salad, steamed vegetables, or roasted carrots for a lighter meal.
- Kid-Friendly: Accompany with apple slices, carrot sticks, or a simple pasta salad to appeal to younger diners.
These air fryer chicken fingers are not only delicious and easy to make but also offer a healthier alternative to traditionally fried chicken. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a snack during game day, or even meal prep for the week. Would you like to explore more about different breading options or additional seasoning ideas?