Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders – Easy & Tasty

Craving a delicious, crispy chicken dish that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. Tender chicken tenders coated in a crunchy, garlic-infused breading and baked to perfection – these juicy bites are sure to become a new family favorite.

Chicken tenders are a dinnertime staple for good reason. They’re quick and easy to prepare, endlessly versatile, and loved by kids and adults alike. And when you elevate them with a crispy, garlicky Parmesan coating, you’ve got a truly irresistible dish on your hands.

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Ingredients for Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

To make these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients:

• Chicken Tenders: The star of the show! 1 pound of chicken tenders, cut into bite-sized pieces.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor and helps create that irresistible crunch.
• Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and crispier than traditional breadcrumbs, making them perfect for achieving maximum crispiness.
• Garlic Powder: This savory spice gives the coating its signature garlic flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds depth and an Italian flair.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the overall flavor.
• Eggs: The eggs help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken.
• Olive Oil or Melted Butter: A light drizzle adds extra crispiness and golden color.

Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as Parmesan-Romano or Parmesan-Asiago blends. And for a gluten-free option, you can swap the panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs.

How to Make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Now, let’s dive into the easy steps to make these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
2. Prepare the Coating: In a shallow bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip the chicken tenders in the beaten eggs, then dredge them in the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere.
4. Bake to Perfection: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them with a touch of olive oil or melted butter to help them get extra crispy. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders hot, with your favorite dipping sauces on the side. Ranch, honey mustard, or marinara are all delicious options that complement the flavors perfectly.

Tips for Perfectly Crispy Chicken Tenders

To achieve that signature crispiness, there are a few key tips to keep in mind:

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and airier than traditional breadcrumbs, resulting in a crunchier coating.
• Drizzle with Oil or Butter: A light coating of olive oil or melted butter helps the breading get extra golden and crisp.
• Bake at High Heat: Cooking the Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders at a high temperature (around 400-425°F) ensures the exterior gets nice and crispy while the interior stays juicy.
• Flip Halfway: Flipping the chicken tenders halfway through baking helps them cook evenly and prevents any soggy spots.

Dipping Sauces for Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

While these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are delicious on their own, they’re even better with a tasty dipping sauce. Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience:

• Honey Mustard: A classic pairing that balances the savory chicken with a sweet and tangy dip.
• Ranch Dressing: Cool and creamy ranch is the perfect complement to the crispy, garlicky chicken.
• Marinara Sauce: For a touch of Italian flair, a simple marinara sauce makes for a delicious dipping option.
• Garlic Aioli: Whip up a quick garlic aioli by mixing mayonnaise, garlic, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt and pepper.

Nutritional Information

These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are not only delicious but also relatively healthy. Each serving (4-5 tenders) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

The chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while the Parmesan cheese and panko breadcrumbs add beneficial nutrients like calcium and fiber. Just be mindful of portion sizes and enjoy these Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders as part of a balanced diet.

FAQs for Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

1. What ingredients do I need to make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

To make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you will need the following ingredients:

• Chicken tenders
• All-purpose flour
• Eggs
• Breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Garlic powder
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or cooking spray (for baking or frying)

2. How do I achieve a crispy texture for the chicken tenders?

To achieve a crispy texture, ensure the chicken tenders are well-coated in the flour, egg, and breadcrumb mixture. Using panko breadcrumbs is recommended as they provide extra crunch. Additionally, baking the tenders at a high temperature (around 400°F or 200°C) or frying them in hot oil can help them become crispy.

3. Can I make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders in advance. After breading them, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to a few hours before cooking. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just ensure they are separated on a baking sheet before freezing to prevent them from sticking together. When ready to cook, you can bake or fry them directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

4. What are some dipping sauce options for Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders pair well with various dipping sauces. Some popular options include:

• Ranch dressing
• Honey mustard
• Marinara sauce
• Garlic aioli
• Buffalo sauce

Feel free to experiment with different sauces to find your favorite combination!

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Crispy Ranch Bacon-Wrapped Chicken Tenders
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bacon Stuffed Shells
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Bake
• Crispy Honey Butter Chicken Sandwiches

Conclusion

These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful, flavor-packed dish that’s sure to become a new family favorite. The combination of juicy chicken, crispy breading, and savory Parmesan and garlic creates an irresistible taste that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try and let us know how it turns out in the comments below!

Craving even more magical meals? Browse Amelia’s Pinterest boards for quick dinners, cozy bakes, and tons of flavorful inspiration.