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If you are craving a snack or dinner that is irresistibly crunchy, cheesy, and packed with savory garlic flavor, the Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe is the answer you’ve been waiting for. Each tender chicken strip is lovingly coated with a golden crust of Parmesan cheese, fresh garlic, and crispy panko breadcrumbs, then baked to perfection, delivering juicy meat inside and a satisfying crunch on the outside. It’s comfort food elevated into something so simple yet so special that every bite feels like a little celebration.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect balance of crispy and flavorful starts with a short, straightforward ingredient list. Each element plays a vital role in creating the texture and taste that make this dish a must-have for any occasion.
- Chicken breasts: This lean protein cuts into tender strips that cook evenly and stay juicy.
- Fresh garlic: Minced to infuse the breading with a fragrant, savory punch.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, salty layer that crisps beautifully during baking.
- Panko breadcrumbs: The secret to that superb crunch you’ll love with every bite.
- Eggs: Beaten to create the perfect sticky base for the breading to cling to the chicken.
- Olive oil: Drizzled over the coated tenders to promote golden, crispy edges.
- Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs: A blend of seasoning that elevates the entire dish with aromatic complexity.
How to Make Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for that perfect crisp. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to keep those tenders from sticking and to make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Cut the Chicken Into Even Strips
Take your boneless, skinless chicken breasts and carefully slice them into evenly sized strips. Uniform pieces will help the tenders cook consistently so every bite is tender and juicy.
Step 3: Mix the Wet and Dry Breading Components
In one bowl, whisk the eggs together with a pinch of salt to create a smooth wash that will help the coating stick. In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and your Italian herb blend, mixing until everything is well distributed and aromatic.
Step 4: Bread the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken strip first into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture so the coating adheres well. The combination of cheese, garlic, and breadcrumbs creates a crust packed with flavor and crunch.
Step 5: Arrange and Drizzle with Olive Oil
Place the breaded tenders evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Drizzle the olive oil over the top to help the coating crisp up beautifully as they bake in the oven.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the chicken tenders for about 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to ensure each side becomes golden brown and perfectly crispy. The result is a dish that looks as incredible as it tastes.
How to Serve Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil sprinkled on top brighten the plate and add a pop of color and freshness that complements the rich, garlicky crust wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Pair your crispy chicken tenders with creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even some roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal. Dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or a tangy honey mustard also elevate the experience.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the tenders on a platter with small bowls of dipping sauces scattered around for a casual, party-ready look. You can also serve them alongside garlic butter pasta or even wrapped in a warm pita with fresh lettuce and tomatoes for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before sealing to maintain their texture.
Freezing
If you want to keep them longer, freeze the cooked tenders on a baking sheet first, then transfer into a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months without sacrificing much crunch when properly reheated.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until hot and crisp again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the coating soggy and less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a bit more juiciness and flavor, but you may want to adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers for a safe alternative that keeps the crunch intact.
Can I pan-fry the chicken tenders instead of baking?
You can pan-fry them in a bit of oil for a crispy finish, but baking is a healthier method that still achieves great crunch with less mess.
How do I keep the garlic flavor from overpowering the dish?
Using fresh garlic in the breading provides a lovely aroma without overwhelming the dish. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount to 1 or 2 cloves.
What dipping sauces go best with this Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Try classic marinara, creamy ranch, honey mustard, or even a zesty garlic aioli for dipping. Each brings a unique flavor that pairs beautifully with the tenders.
Final Thoughts
You really can’t go wrong with the Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe—whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual get-together. The combination of crunchy coating, cheesy goodness, and that garlicky punch is truly irresistible. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a new favorite in your kitchen. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and easy-to-make baked chicken dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests. Tender strips of chicken breast are coated in a savory mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, fresh garlic, and Italian herbs, then baked to golden perfection with just a drizzle of olive oil for extra crispiness.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Coating
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs to taste
Others
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Prepare Chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even strips to ensure uniform cooking.
- Mix Egg Wash and Coating: In one bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs with a pinch of salt. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and Italian herbs along with salt and pepper to taste.
- Coat Chicken Strips: Dip each chicken strip first into the egg mixture, then dredge thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.
- Arrange and Drizzle: Place the coated chicken tenders evenly on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle olive oil over them to help achieve a crispy, golden finish.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping the chicken tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping and browning on both sides.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can spray the chicken tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- Serve these tenders with your favorite dipping sauce like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.
- Make sure chicken strips are cut to uniform size for even cooking.
- You can substitute gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- For a more intense garlic flavor, add a little garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
