Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food that combines crunch with a burst of flavor. The crispy, golden coating on the outside pairs beautifully with the juicy chicken on the inside, while the rich combination of garlic and Parmesan delivers a punch of flavor. It’s an easy recipe that doesn’t require a lot of ingredients but results in a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love. Plus, it’s a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken tenders, as it’s baked instead of fried, without compromising on taste or texture.
Ingredients
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1 lb chicken tenders
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1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon onion powder
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1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 egg, beaten
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 tablespoon fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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In a separate bowl, beat the egg.
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Dip each chicken tender into the egg, then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure it sticks.
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Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle the olive oil over the tenders for added crispiness.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through cooking.
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Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. The preparation time is about 10 minutes, and the cooking time is 20-25 minutes, making the total time around 30-35 minutes.
Variations
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Spicy Garlic Parmesan: Add red pepper flakes or a bit of hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
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Air Fryer Version: You can cook the tenders in an air fryer at 375°F for 15-18 minutes for a quicker and even crispier result.
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Herb Infusion: Add extra herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil to the breadcrumb mixture for a unique flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 375°F for 10-12 minutes until heated through and crispy again. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for 5-7 minutes for the best texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Simply cut them into strips to resemble tenders and follow the recipe instructions.
2. Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
You can prepare and coat the chicken tenders in advance, then store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours before baking them.
3. Can I fry these chicken tenders instead of baking them?
Yes, you can fry them in hot oil if you prefer a traditional fried texture. Just heat about 1 inch of oil in a pan and cook the tenders for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
4. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?
Yes, pre-grated Parmesan cheese can be used, but freshly grated Parmesan will give the tenders a better flavor and texture.
5. Are these chicken tenders gluten-free?
The recipe as written is not gluten-free. However, you can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make them gluten-free.
6. How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?
The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to check.
7. Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze the chicken tenders before baking them. Lay the coated tenders on a baking sheet, freeze for 2 hours, then transfer them to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
8. How do I make these chicken tenders crispier?
For extra crispiness, make sure to use panko breadcrumbs and drizzle olive oil over the tenders before baking. Additionally, flipping them halfway through cooking helps them crisp evenly.
9. What can I serve with these chicken tenders?
These tenders pair well with a variety of sides, such as a simple salad, mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, or honey mustard.
10. Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?
Yes, you can experiment with other cheeses like Asiago, Romano, or even mozzarella, though Parmesan is the best for the classic flavor.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a quick and easy dish that everyone will enjoy. With crispy breading, savory garlic, and the richness of Parmesan, these tenders are packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, as an appetizer, or at a party, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. Give this simple recipe a try, and enjoy the delicious combination of garlic and cheese in every bite!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
These crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the perfect balance of savory and cheesy flavors, making them a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Coated in a garlic butter sauce and topped with freshly grated Parmesan, these tenders are baked to perfection for a healthy, flavorful meal. Perfect as a main dish or a tasty appetizer!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8 tenders)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the chicken tenders: Dip each chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to coat evenly. Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Make the garlic butter: In a small bowl, melt the butter in the microwave. Add the minced garlic and stir well.
- Brush the tenders: Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the breaded chicken tenders, ensuring each tender is coated with the garlic butter.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
- Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For extra crispy tenders, you can also air fry the chicken at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve with a side of marinara or ranch dipping sauce for an extra burst of flavor.
You can make the garlic butter ahead of time and store it in the fridge
