Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Up to 3 days in the fridge, can be frozen.
Quick Answer
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious way to enjoy chicken, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion!
There’s something so comforting about the smell of garlic sautéing and melted cheese wafting through my New York City apartment, especially as we embrace the flavors of the holiday season. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, I’ve been perfecting my recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. These crispy, tender bites are perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
A Festive Delight for Any Occasion
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly crispy coating that elevates the tender chicken inside.
- Quick and easy preparation—ideal for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings.
- Flavorful blend of garlic and Parmesan cheese that everyone will enjoy.
- Versatile dish that pairs well with various dipping sauces.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully for meals during the week.
Ingredients
To make these delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you’ll need:
For the Tenders
- 1 pound of chicken tenderloins
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Breading
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders that everyone will love.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy coating!
Step 2: Set Up Breading Station
In one shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and olive oil until combined. In a separate bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure full coverage. I love the way the crispy coating glistens in the light!
Step 4: Arrange and Bake
Spread the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. This allows the heat to circulate, creating that golden brown finish. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’re looking for a golden hue and a slight jiggle in the center—just perfect!
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once baked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color (and flavor!).
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the drying step: Moist chicken doesn’t allow for a crispy coating, so always pat your chicken tenders dry.
- Not seasoning the breadcrumbs: A bland breadcrumb mixture can dull the overall flavor. Don’t skip the spices!
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Give each tender some space to ensure they bake evenly and achieve that desired crispiness.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- For an extra layer of flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle kick.
- Pair these chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or marinara for added excitement.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven; just place them on a baking sheet to warm up for about 10 minutes at 350°F.
Variations
- Substitute regular breadcrumbs for Panko if you prefer a different texture.
- Use grated mozzarella cheese instead of Parmesan for a milder flavor.
- Add chopped herbs like thyme or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for an aromatic twist.
How to Serve
- Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a balanced meal.
- Offer a variety of dipping sauces to create a fun appetizer platter.
- Include a fresh green salad to complement the crispy chicken tenders.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can bread the chicken tenders a few hours in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to bake.
- Storage: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven. Place them on a baking sheet to warm up for about 10 minutes at 350°F.
- Freezing: Freeze completely cooled chicken tenders in a freezer-safe bag. They can be reheated directly from frozen in the oven, but allow for slightly longer bake times.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Perfecting these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders reminded me that the simplest ingredients can create incredible flavor when combined thoughtfully. I also learned that having a solid breading technique can elevate any chicken dish from good to remarkable!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 4 chicken tenders
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 25g protein · 20g carbs · 15g fat
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This step is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy coating!
- In one shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and olive oil until combined. In a separate bowl, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and a good pinch of salt and pepper.
- Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure full coverage.
- Spread the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color (and flavor!).
Notes
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you will need to slice them into strips to achieve the same size as tenderloins for even cooking.
Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake. Just be aware that the coating may not be as crispy if they sit for too long.
What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?
These chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch dressing, and marinara sauce. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
