Crispy Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan

Name: Crispy Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3-4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; Garlic powder; Fresh grated parmesan cheese; Panko breadcrumbs; 2 large eggs; Salt and pepper; Olive oil

Published: February 24, 2025

by Sarah Connor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delightful dish combines simplicity and flavor; it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser even among picky eaters
You can whip it up in no time for a quick weeknight dinner
The golden crust and savory aroma create an irresistible visual appeal
Perfect for serving as a main dish or a party appetizer

My friends couldn’t stop raving about these tender bites when I made them during last Sunday’s game night!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 pieces work well; ensure they are fresh for the best results.
Garlic Powder: A must-have spice that adds robust flavor; choose high-quality for maximum impact.
Parmesan Cheese: Grate it fresh at home if possible; it melts beautifully and tastes divine.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These provide an extra crunch; you can also mix in regular breadcrumbs if needed.
Eggs: Use two large eggs to help the breading stick perfectly to the chicken.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all flavors; don’t skimp on these!
Olive Oil: A drizzle helps achieve that golden brown finish while frying or baking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray.

Prepare the Chicken: Cut the boneless chicken breasts into strips that are about one inch wide. This allows them to cook evenly and ensures they’re easy to eat.

Set Up Your Breading Station: In three separate bowls, place the flour mixed with salt and pepper in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and combine panko breadcrumbs with grated parmesan cheese in the last bowl.

Coat Each Piece: Take each strip of chicken and dip it first into the flour mixture until covered completely. Then dunk it into the egg wash before finally rolling it around in the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated.

Bake Until Golden: Arrange your coated tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer. Bake them for about 20 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through so watch carefully!

Serve Warm: Once out of the oven, let them cool slightly before serving them up with your favorite dipping sauce because who doesn’t love dipping?

Enjoy every bite of these flavorful delights!

This recipe isn’t just about cooking; it’s about creating memories filled with laughter and joy around your dining table. Enjoy your crunchy adventure!

You Must Know

Chicken tenders with garlic parmesan are not just a meal; they’re an experience!
The crispy exterior meets the creamy, garlicky goodness that makes every bite unforgettable
Perfect for kids and adults alike, this dish could be your new family favorite

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by marinating the chicken tenders while preheating your oven, ensuring maximum flavor absorption. Next, bread them and bake until crispy for perfectly tender chicken.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out parmesan for pecorino or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for extra flavor. Customize the spices to suit your taste preferences.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through for optimal crispiness.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For the best chicken tenders with garlic parmesan, ensure your oil is hot before frying to prevent sogginess
Letting the chicken rest after cooking helps maintain juiciness
Experiment with different cheeses for varied flavor profiles and textures

I once made these chicken tenders for a family gathering, and they disappeared faster than I could say “garlic parmesan.” Everyone asked for seconds, leaving me wondering if I should’ve doubled the recipe!

FAQ

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cooking for even results.

How can I make these tenders spicier?

Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to your breading mixture for an extra kick.

What can I serve with chicken tenders with garlic parmesan?

These tasty tenders pair beautifully with a fresh salad or crispy fries on the side!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card