If you’re craving an easy, mouthwatering dish, you’ve come to the right place! My Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the perfect combo of crispy and flavorful. These tenders are quick to make and sure to please everyone at your table. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, these tenders will shine. Let’s dive into the ingredients and make dinner a hit!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates an irresistible flavor that elevates the chicken tenders to a gourmet level.
- Crispy Texture: Using panko breadcrumbs ensures a delightful crunch that contrasts perfectly with the tender chicken inside.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
- Versatile Dish: These chicken tenders can be served as an appetizer, main course, or even in salads, making them a versatile addition to any meal.
Ingredients
To make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, gather these fresh ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Each ingredient plays a key role in making these tenders crispy and tasty. The chicken breast tenders provide a juicy base, while the flour and seasonings create a perfect coating. Eggs help the breadcrumbs stick, and the Parmesan adds a savory bite. Garlic infuses flavor, and butter gives richness and helps brown the tenders. Finally, garnish with parsley for color and freshness.
With these ingredients, you can create a dish that impresses everyone.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheating the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step ensures your chicken tenders cook evenly and become crispy.
2. Preparing the Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the tenders from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
3. Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a shallow bowl, combine 1 cup of flour, 1 tablespoon of Italian seasoning, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. This mix gives your chicken a great flavor base.
Coating the Chicken
1. Dredging in Flour
Take each chicken tender and dredge it in the flour mixture. Make sure to shake off any excess flour. This layer helps the egg stick later.
2. Egg Coating
Next, dip the floured tender into 2 beaten eggs. Ensure it’s fully coated. The egg acts as glue for the breadcrumb layer.
3. Coating with Breadcrumbs
Roll the tender in 1 cup of breadcrumbs mixed with 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Press gently to help the coating stick.
Baking the Tenders
1. Arranging on Baking Sheet
Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Make sure they have space in between for even cooking.
2. Applying Melted Butter
Drizzle 1/3 cup of melted butter evenly over the chicken tenders. This step adds richness and helps them brown nicely.
3. Baking Duration and Checking Temperature
Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.
These steps will lead you to delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. Enjoy each bite of this crispy, flavorful dish!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Crispiness
Choosing the Right Breadcrumbs
I recommend using panko breadcrumbs. They give a light and fluffy texture. Panko absorbs less oil, so they stay crispier. Regular breadcrumbs can work, but they may not be as crunchy. You want that satisfying crunch when you bite into the chicken.
Baking Techniques
Baking at 400°F (200°C) works best. This high heat helps the chicken cook evenly. Line your baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy. Drizzle melted butter over the chicken before baking. This adds flavor and helps with browning. Bake until golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
Flavor Enhancements
Additional Seasonings to Consider
You can spice things up by adding paprika or cayenne pepper. This gives a nice kick. You might also try a sprinkle of lemon zest for brightness. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors that you enjoy.
Using Fresh vs. Dried Herbs
Fresh herbs add a lovely taste. If you have fresh parsley or basil, use them! Dried herbs are great too. They are more potent, so use less. If you choose dried, remember to check the expiration date. Fresh or dried, both enhance your dish wonderfully.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly minced garlic will give a more vibrant flavor than pre-minced garlic. Consider using a garlic press for the best results.
- Double-Dip for Extra Crunch: For an ultra-crispy coating, double dip the chicken tenders by repeating the flour, egg, and breadcrumb steps.
- Let It Rest: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the juices redistribute, ensuring moist and tender chicken.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the Italian seasoning or add your favorite herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for a personalized touch.
Variations
Alternate Ingredients
You can change up the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders by using different ingredients. Here are two fun ideas:
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. These swaps keep the crunch while being safe for those with gluten issues. You won’t lose any flavor or texture.
- Spicy Variation with Hot Sauce: If you want a kick, mix hot sauce into the beaten eggs. This adds heat to the tenders. You can also sprinkle red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mix for extra spice.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing these chicken tenders with the right sides can make your meal even better. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Pairing with Dipping Sauces: Try ranch, marinara, or honey mustard. Each sauce adds a new layer of flavor. You can even mix pesto with mayo for a fresh twist.
- Adding Side Dishes: Serve the tenders with a crisp salad or roasted veggies. French fries or a creamy mac and cheese also work great. These sides create a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store leftover garlic Parmesan chicken tenders in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. They will stay fresh for up to three days. Make sure they cool before sealing. This helps prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Instructions
To freeze, wrap the chicken tenders tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This keeps them safe for up to two months. When you want to eat them, thaw them in the fridge overnight.
Reheating Tips
Oven vs. Microwave
The oven is best for reheating. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps them crispy.
If you use the microwave, the chicken may turn soft. Heat them on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes. Check often to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
How do I ensure the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures it is safe to eat. You can also cut one tender in half. If the meat is white and juices run clear, it’s done. Even cooking helps to make the chicken tender and juicy.
Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders ahead. Coat them in the breadcrumbs and place them on the baking sheet. Cover them with plastic wrap and store in the fridge. This makes it easy to bake them when you are ready. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them in the fridge before baking.
What dipping sauces pair well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Many sauces go well with these chicken tenders. Here are some tasty choices:
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard sauce
- BBQ sauce
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic aioli
These sauces add extra flavor and make your meal even more fun. Enjoy dipping!
This blog post covered how to make delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders from start to finish. We explored ingredients, step-by-step instructions, tips for crispiness, and creative variations. You can impress everyone with your cooking skills. Remember, slight changes can boost flavor and texture. Proper storage keeps leftovers tasty. Start making this meal today to enjoy great flavor and fu
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
- 1.33 cup melted butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a shallow bowl, combine flour, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- In another bowl, place the beaten eggs.
- In a third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with minced garlic and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess.
- Dip the floured tender into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Finally, roll the tender in the garlic-Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle melted butter over the chicken tenders evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.