Start by rinsing your chicken tenders under cold water and patting them dry with paper towels. This step ensures that the coating sticks well.
In a mixing bowl, combine the Panko breadcrumbs, finely shredded Parmesan cheese, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
In another bowl, pour the melted butter. Dip each chicken tender into the butter, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it in the Panko mixture. Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken for a thick, crunchy coating.
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even cooking.
Air fry the chicken tenders for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. They should be golden brown and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, or toss them in a salad for a quick, nutritious meal.