Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Garlic Parmesan chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken. This recipe features tender chicken coated in a crispy mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. To prepare, season chicken with salt and black pepper, then dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat in breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and dried parsley. Bake at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. They are perfect with dipping sauces and make a satisfying meal or snack. More tips await for enhancing this dish.
Why You’ll Love this Recipe
Why choose this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe? This dish is a perfect combination of flavor and simplicity.
It features tender chicken coated in a crispy, golden layer of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. Baked rather than fried, it offers a healthier alternative without sacrificing taste. The use of garlic powder adds a savory depth, making it appealing to many palates.
Preparation takes only 10 minutes, and cooking requires just 20 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights. Additionally, it pairs well with various dipping sauces and side dishes, enhancing its versatility as a meal option for everyone.
Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that will please everyone at the dinner table. These crispy chicken tenders are coated in a flavorful mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, making them a perfect choice for a family meal or a party snack.
The combination of garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley adds a delightful aroma and taste, guaranteeing that every bite is packed with flavor. Plus, baking instead of frying keeps them healthier without sacrificing that coveted crunch.
Preparing these chicken tenders is a simple process that requires minimal time and effort. With just a few ingredients and steps, you can create a dish that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing.
Whether you serve them with your favorite dipping sauces or alongside a crisp salad, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- Melted butter for drizzling
Cooking Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Season the chicken tenders with salt and black pepper, making sure they are evenly coated.
- Set up a coating station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried parsley in a third dish.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make certain it adheres well.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle melted butter over the top of each tender for added flavor and crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Once done, remove from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
For the best results, serve the chicken tenders hot straight out of the oven, paired with a variety of dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara for added flavor.
If you’re looking to mix things up, consider adding some lemon zest or fresh herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for a revitalizing twist. Remember that leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making these tenders a great meal prep option!
Final Thoughts
The joy of preparing and enjoying homemade meals is often found in simple yet flavorful recipes like Chicken Tenders. This dish combines tender chicken with a crispy garlic Parmesan coating, making it appealing to many.
It is easy to customize with different flavors, such as lemon herb or buffalo. To guarantee the best results, it is important to follow the cooking instructions carefully.
Serving these tenders hot with various dipping sauces enhances the meal. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator or frozen for future enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Tenders for This Recipe?
Could frozen chicken tenders work in this recipe? Absolutely. Thawing them first guarantees even cooking, though adjusting baking time may be necessary. A flavorful result awaits, regardless of the tender’s frozen origins.
How Can I Make These Tenders Spicier?
To increase spiciness, one could incorporate cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture. Additionally, marinating the chicken in hot sauce before coating can enhance the overall heat of the dish.
What’s the Best Way to Reheat Leftovers?
The best way to reheat leftovers involves preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C) and baking them on a lined baking sheet for 10-15 minutes until heated through, ensuring they remain crispy and flavorful.
Can I Bake These Without Breadcrumbs?
Baking without breadcrumbs may yield a bare, bland bite. However, alternatives like crushed nuts or finely grated cheese can create a crispy coating. Experimentation may enhance flavor while maintaining a pleasing texture in the final dish.
How Do I Know When Chicken Is Fully Cooked?
To determine if chicken is fully cooked, one should check that its internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear, and the meat should no longer be pink near the bone.
