Description
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are crispy, flavorful, and easy to make. Coated in a savory mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic spices, then baked to golden perfection, they make a perfect main course or snack. Ideal for a quick family meal or kid-friendly dinner, served with your favorite dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Coating
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
For Brushing
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for brushing or drizzling)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a shallow bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
- Prepare Wet and Dry Dredges: Beat the eggs in a separate bowl. Place the flour in a third bowl to create three stations for coating the chicken tenders.
- Coat Chicken: Take each chicken tender and dredge it first in the flour coating all sides, then dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to ensure thorough coating.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to allow for even cooking.
- Brush with Oil or Butter: Lightly brush or drizzle the tenders with olive oil or melted butter to promote browning and a crispy texture.
- Bake: Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the tenders for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure both sides are golden and cooked through.
- Optional Broil for Crispiness: If desired, broil the tenders for 1 to 2 minutes at the end of baking to achieve extra crispiness.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven, garnish with chopped fresh parsley if using, and serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil the tenders for 1–2 minutes after baking.
- These chicken tenders can also be cooked in an air fryer at 375°F for 10–12 minutes as a quicker alternative.
- Serve with dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli for enhanced flavor.
- Ensure chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
