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Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders

crispy baked parmesan chicken tenders - featured image

These crispy baked Parmesan chicken tenders feature a golden, crunchy coating mixed with sharp, nutty Parmesan cheese, baked to perfection for a flavorful and healthier alternative to fried tenders.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) chicken tenders, fresh
  • ½ cup (50 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese (preferably Parmigiano-Reggiano)
  • ¾ cup (90 g) breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • ½ cup (60 g) all-purpose flour
  • Olive oil or cooking spray (for greasing and spraying)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Prepare your coating stations: place flour in one shallow bowl, whisk eggs in a second bowl, and combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper in a third bowl.
  3. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
  4. Dredge each tender in flour, shaking off excess.
  5. Dip the floured tender into the egg wash, coating completely.
  6. Roll the tender in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks well but remains airy.
  7. Place coated tenders on a wire rack set over a baking sheet, or directly on a greased baking sheet if no rack is available, spacing them apart for air circulation.
  8. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle a bit of olive oil over them.
  9. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping halfway through if not using a wire rack, until the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. Remove from oven and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before breading for best crispiness. Use a wire rack to avoid soggy bottoms. Lightly spray with oil to enhance browning. Freshly grate Parmesan for best flavor and texture. For extra crispiness, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully. Can substitute almond flour and gluten-free panko for gluten-free version. Flax egg can replace eggs for egg-free option but coating may be looser.

Nutrition

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