If you’re on the hunt for a dish that combines juicy chicken with a crisp, flavorful crust, you’ve just found your new go-to: the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe. This recipe brings together the irresistible richness of Parmesan cheese, the aromatic punch of garlic, and a satisfying crunch that will have everyone asking for seconds. Baking these chicken tenders creates a healthier spin on a beloved classic, perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Trust me, once you try this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe, it’s going to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe lies in its simple ingredients, all thoughtfully chosen to deliver bold flavors and satisfying textures. Each item plays a crucial role, from the crispy panko breadcrumbs adding crunch to the garlic powder infusing every bite with warmth.
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders: Tender, lean pieces that cook quickly and evenly for juicy results.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory depth and helps create a golden crust.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs provide a light, crispy coating that outshines regular breadcrumbs.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings that signature garlic flavor evenly throughout the coating.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A perfect blend of herbs to enhance the chicken’s natural flavor and the crust’s complexity.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle hint of spice to balance the richness.
- 2 large eggs: Helps the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken, ensuring every tender gets coated perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Lightens the egg mixture to create a smooth, even dip.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Drizzled over the tenders before baking to boost crispiness and add a beautiful golden finish.
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot enough to crisp up the chicken tenders. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it—this keeps the tenders from sticking and helps with easy cleanup.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. This mixture helps the crispy topping adhere firmly to the chicken, so don’t rush this step!
Step 3: Combine the Coating Mix
In another bowl, mix the Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. This blend is the flavorful armor that will coat your chicken tenders, creating that addictive crunch and rich taste.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off to avoid sogginess. Then, dredge them thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well. Lay them out on your prepared baking sheet, making sure there’s a little space between each tender for even cooking.
Step 5: Add Olive Oil and Bake
Lightly drizzle or spray olive oil over the tenders. This small but important step helps the crust get golden and crispy during baking. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping each tender halfway through to ensure even browning. For an extra crispy finish, broil them for the last 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely to prevent burning.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil bring a fresh burst of color and flavor to the dish. A squeeze of lemon juice over the tenders just before serving adds a bright, zesty note that perfectly balances the savory crust.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, roasted vegetables, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a kid-friendly meal, serve with crispy oven-baked fries or carrot sticks and a dab of ketchup or ranch dressing for dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe by serving the tenders over a bed of cauliflower rice or atop a fresh garden salad for a lighter option. Alternatively, create a tasty sandwich by placing a couple of tenders in a soft bun with lettuce and your favorite sauce, perfect for lunches or casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tenders taste just as delicious the next day. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them covered prevents drying out and maintains that irresistible crisp on the outside.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe later, they freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, arrange tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat and bring back that crispy texture, bake tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F for 10 to 15 minutes, turning halfway through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating crunchy, but it’s fine for a quick reheat when you’re in a pinch.
FAQs
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, regular breadcrumbs work just fine, but panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, crunchier coating that’s stunningly delicious. If you prefer a denser crust, regular breadcrumbs will still yield tasty tenders.
What dipping sauces go best with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Classic ranch, honey mustard, marinara, or even a garlic aioli complement these tenders beautifully. Their savory coating pairs well with both creamy and tangy dips.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just substitute the panko breadcrumb with a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative or crushed gluten-free cereal. The flavor and crispiness will still shine through.
Is it better to bake or fry these chicken tenders?
Baking is healthier and just as tasty, especially with the addition of olive oil for crispness. Frying will also work if you want a classic deep-fried texture, but baking keeps things lighter without sacrificing flavor.
How do I know when the chicken tenders are cooked through?
The tenders should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe and perfectly cooked. They should be golden brown on the outside and juicy inside. Use a meat thermometer for best accuracy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting about homemade, crispy, flavorful chicken tenders, and this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe hits every note perfectly. It’s simple enough for a busy weeknight yet special enough to impress your friends and family. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—it might just become one of your favorite dishes too, bringing warmth and a little extra joy to your table.
Print
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High-Protein
Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe features tender chicken coated in a crispy, flavorful blend of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and Italian seasonings. Baked to golden perfection and lightly drizzled with olive oil for extra crispiness, these chicken tenders make a delicious and easy main course perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
Finishing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for drizzling or spraying)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Wet Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined. This mixture will help the breadcrumb coating adhere to the chicken tenders.
- Prepare Dry Mixture: In another bowl, mix the grated Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, ensuring they are well combined for an even coating flavor.
- Coat Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender into the egg and milk mixture, letting any excess drip off. Then, thoroughly coat each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks well.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly to allow proper baking and browning.
- Add Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle or spray the chicken tenders with olive oil. This step helps them brown nicely and achieve a crispy texture while baking.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time for even crispness and golden color. The chicken is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional Broiling for Extra Crispiness: For a crispier finish, broil the tenders for an additional 2 to 3 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve the chicken tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for the last 2–3 minutes of cooking.
- You can substitute panko breadcrumbs with regular breadcrumbs, but panko provides a crunchier texture.
