Begin by patting the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to remove any excess moisture.

In a bowl, zest 1-2 lemons until you have the desired amount for your seasoning mix.

Bowl 2: Whisk eggs until well-beaten.

Bowl 3: Combine the panko bread crumbs, lemon zest, ground black pepper, and if using, garlic powder. Ensure it's mixed thoroughly to evenly distribute the flavors.

Dip each chicken tender into the flour mixture (Bowl 1) and shake off any excess.

Next, dip it into the beaten eggs (Bowl 2), ensuring it's fully coated.

Finally, press the chicken tender into the panko-lemon pepper mixture (Bowl 3), making sure it's well-coated on all sides. Set aside on a plate and repeat for all tenders.

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes.

Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Ensure they aren’t touching or overlapping for even cooking.

Spray the tops of the chicken tenders lightly with olive oil or cooking spray. This will help achieve a golden-brown crust.

Cook for 10-12 minutes, turning the tenders halfway through until they are golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Once done, carefully remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer.

Optional: Garnish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness.

Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!