Looking for a tasty and easy dinner idea? You’ll love these Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! They are crunchy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Using simple ingredients like chicken, panko breadcrumbs, and fresh garlic, you can whip up a meal everyone will enjoy. Stick around as I guide you through each step to make this crispy delight at home. You’ll impress your family and friends with your cooking skills!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb chicken breast tenders
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
These are the stars of the dish. I love using chicken breast tenders because they cook quickly and stay juicy. Panko breadcrumbs provide a great crunch. Grated Parmesan cheese gives a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with garlic.
Seasoning and Coating
– 4 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley (chopped)
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garlic is a must for this recipe. It adds a strong, aromatic flavor. Fresh parsley brightens the dish with its color and taste. Italian seasoning and paprika bring warmth and depth to the coating. Don’t skip the salt and pepper; they boost all the flavors.
Binding Ingredients
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Cooking spray
The eggs help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken. Olive oil gives a nice golden color while baking. A little cooking spray ensures nothing sticks to your baking sheet. This combination keeps the chicken moist and adds a lovely crispness.Enjoy your cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Oven and Baking Sheet
First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is key for crispy chicken tenders. While the oven heats, grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper. This helps keep the chicken from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Making the Coating Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients. You will need breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, fresh parsley, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well until it forms a nice blend. This mixture is what gives the chicken its tasty coating.
Coating the Chicken Tenders
Now, prepare the egg wash. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs until they are smooth. Take each chicken tender and dip it into the egg wash. Let any extra egg drip off. Then, coat the tender in the breadcrumb mixture. Press it gently to ensure the crumbs stick. Repeat this step for all the chicken tenders.
Baking Process
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the lined baking sheet. For an extra touch of crispiness, drizzle or lightly spray the tops with olive oil. This helps them bake to a golden brown. Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Flip the tenders halfway through for even cooking. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when done. Enjoy these tasty bites right from the oven.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving a Crispy Texture
To make your chicken tenders crispy, use panko breadcrumbs. They give a light and crunchy bite. Before baking, drizzle olive oil over the top. This helps them turn golden and crisp.
Cooking Time and Temperature
The ideal baking temperature is 400°F (200°C). This heat cooks the chicken well and keeps it juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. The chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) inside.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chicken tenders with tasty dipping sauces. Ranch or honey mustard are great choices. Pair them with side dishes like a fresh salad or crispy fries for a complete meal.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily change the taste of Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. One fun way is to add spices. Want some heat? Try cayenne pepper! Just a pinch can really fire things up. You can also mix in smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Cheese lovers can play with different cheeses too. While Parmesan is classic, try adding cheddar or mozzarella. Each cheese gives a unique twist. Combine them for a rich taste!
Gluten-Free Alternatives
If you follow a gluten-free diet, you can still enjoy this dish. Instead of regular breadcrumbs, swap them with gluten-free options. Look for gluten-free panko or crushed rice cereal. Both work great to keep that crunch!
Make sure to check all labels. Some seasonings may contain gluten. It’s easy to adjust the recipe to fit your needs. You can enjoy these tasty tenders without worry!
Oven vs. Air Fryer
You can make Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders in an air fryer too! This method gives a crispy finish with less oil. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Cook the tenders for about 10-12 minutes. Flip them halfway through for even cooking.
Using an air fryer is quick and easy. It cuts down on prep time. You still get delicious and crispy tenders that everyone will love.
Storage Info
Short-Term Storage
To store leftover Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, let them cool first. Place them in the fridge. Use an airtight container to keep them fresh. This helps prevent drying out and keeps flavors intact.
Freezing Guidelines
If you want to freeze cooked chicken tenders, let them cool completely. Wrap each tender in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag or container. This way, they won’t stick together. When you’re ready to eat, take them out and heat in the oven. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them regain their crispiness.
Shelf Life Expectations
In the fridge, these tenders last about 3-4 days. If you freeze them, they can last up to 3 months. Always check for any signs of freezer burn before cooking. Following these tips keeps your Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders tasty and safe to eat!
FAQs
How can I make Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders healthier?
You can make these tenders healthier in a few ways. First, reduce the olive oil to cut back on fat. Use only a light drizzle or spray. You can also swap regular breadcrumbs for whole grain ones. This adds fiber and nutrients. Another option is to bake them without oil for a lighter dish.
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes, you can absolutely use chicken breast. Just cut the breast into strips that are similar in size to tenders. This helps them cook evenly. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary. Always check for doneness to ensure your chicken is safe to eat.
What can I serve with baked chicken tenders?
These tenders pair well with many sides. Try serving them with a fresh salad or some roasted veggies. You can also add crispy fries or sweet potato wedges for a fun touch. For drinks, a chilled lemonade or iced tea would be refreshing.
How do I know when chicken tenders are fully cooked?
To check if the chicken is cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the thickest part of the tender. The meat should be white and the juices should run clear. This ensures your chicken is safe to eat.
In this post, we discussed how to make Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. We covered the key ingredients, like chicken tenders, breadcrumbs, and spices. We walked through each step, from preparing the oven to baking. I provided tips to achieve that perfect crispy texture and shared different variations to suit your taste. Lastly, we reviewed how to store leftovers safely. With this simple guide, you can create a delicious meal your whole family will love. Enjoy your cooking and the tasty results!
