Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe Perfect for Dinner

The crunch of perfectly golden chicken tenders paired with the bold flavors of garlic and Parmesan—can you imagine anything better for dinner tonight? These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders aren’t just a meal; they’re the kind of dish that turns an ordinary evening into something memorable. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this recipe is easy, satisfying, and absolutely irresistible.

I first stumbled upon this idea while trying to jazz up plain chicken for my family. Let’s be honest—chicken tenders can sometimes feel, well, boring. But with a crispy coating infused with garlic and Parmesan, these tenders are anything but ordinary. They deliver a restaurant-quality crunch with a flavor punch that’ll keep everyone coming back for seconds. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a weeknight favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights when time is precious.
• Simple Ingredients: No fancy grocery trips here! You likely already have everything in your pantry or fridge.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the crispy coating and savory flavor—no picky eaters here!
• Perfect for Any Meal: Great as a main dish for dinner, or even as finger food for game day or casual gatherings.
• Unbelievably Delicious: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to beat.

What sets these chicken tenders apart? It’s all about the balance of flavor and texture. The garlic is bold but not overpowering, and the Parmesan adds richness without being too heavy. Plus, they’re baked (or air-fried) for a healthier twist without sacrificing crunch. If you’ve been searching for the ultimate chicken tender recipe, this is it.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavor and satisfying crunch without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken Tenders: About 1 pound of fresh chicken tenders or sliced chicken breasts.
• Flour: All-purpose flour for the first coating layer.
• Eggs: 2 large eggs, beaten (helps the coating stick).
• Panko Breadcrumbs: For that extra crunch—regular breadcrumbs work too, but Panko is the best.
• Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated Parmesan for the coating (I recommend freshly grated for maximum flavor).
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth and a rich garlic flavor.
• Italian Seasoning: A mix of dried herbs like oregano and basil for that extra kick.
• Salt & Pepper: To season the chicken perfectly.
• Olive Oil Spray: Helps create a golden, crispy finish when baking or air frying.

If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t worry! You can swap Italian seasoning for dried oregano or basil, and regular breadcrumbs work in place of Panko. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs instead.

Equipment Needed

You don’t need much to make this recipe, but these tools will make your cooking process smooth:

• Baking Sheet: For baking the chicken tenders—line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
• Three Bowls: One for the flour, one for the beaten eggs, and one for the breadcrumb mixture.
• Tongs: Perfect for flipping and handling the tenders without a mess.
• Wire Rack: Optional but highly recommended for baking—it helps the tenders crisp up evenly.
• Air Fryer (Optional): If you prefer air frying, this tool creates ultimate crispiness.

If you don’t have a wire rack, you can bake the tenders directly on the parchment-lined sheet—just flip them halfway through for even cooking.

Preparation Method

Follow these simple steps to make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders that taste like they came straight from a restaurant:

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). If using an air fryer, preheat it to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare the Coating Stations: In one bowl, add the flour with a pinch of salt and pepper. In a second bowl, whisk the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the flour, then the egg mixture, and finally the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet. For extra crispiness, place them on a wire rack over the sheet.
5. Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil to help them crisp up beautifully.
6. Bake or Air Fry: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or air fry for 10-12 minutes. They should be golden and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
7. Serve: Let the tenders cool for 2-3 minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Pro tip: If the coating starts to fall off while dipping, try letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes after coating—it helps everything set better.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Here’s how to make sure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders turn out perfect every time:

• Don’t Skip the Olive Oil Spray: It’s the key to achieving a golden, crispy finish without deep frying.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated Parmesan often has additives that can affect texture—freshly grated is worth the effort.
• Flip Halfway: If baking, flipping ensures even browning on both sides.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Place tenders in a single layer to ensure they cook evenly and crisp up properly.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with the salt and pepper—it’s essential for flavor depth.

If you’re new to breading, keep one hand for dry ingredients and the other for wet to avoid clumping. Trust me, it makes life easier!

Variations & Adaptations

Want to mix things up? Here are some fun ways to adapt this recipe:

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy twist.
• Gluten-Free: Swap the flour for almond flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix shredded mozzarella into the breadcrumb coating for an extra cheesy layer.
• Seasonal Twist: Add fresh chopped parsley or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for a herby flavor.
• Different Cooking Method: Try pan-frying for extra crispiness (use a non-stick skillet and a bit of oil).

One of my favorite variations? Using smoked paprika in the breadcrumb mixture—it adds a subtle smoky flavor that’s just incredible.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are best served warm and crispy. Here’s how to enjoy them:

• Serving Temperature: Serve immediately after cooking for maximum crunch.
• Presentation: Arrange on a platter with a side of marinara, ranch, or honey mustard dipping sauce.
• Complementary Dishes: Pair with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or a crisp green salad.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.

Pro tip: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers even tastier!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Here’s what you can expect from this recipe:

• Calories: Approximately 250 per serving (depending on portion size).
• Protein: High protein content from lean chicken—ideal for a balanced meal.
• Low Carb Option: Use almond flour and skip breadcrumbs to reduce carbs.
• Allergen Considerations: Contains dairy and gluten—substitute as needed.

With wholesome ingredients and a baked method, these tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken.

Conclusion

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are everything you could want in a dinner recipe—quick, delicious, and versatile. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving some comfort food, this recipe delivers every time. Personally, it’s become one of my go-to meals after a long day because it’s so simple yet satisfying.

Give it a try and make it your own! Add your favorite seasonings, serve it with a side of veggies, or enjoy them as-is with a dipping sauce. However you choose to serve them, they’re sure to be a hit.

Let me know how your chicken tenders turn out—leave a comment below or share your variations! I’d love to hear your thoughts. Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the flour for almond flour and use gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Can I pan-fry these instead of baking?

Absolutely! Use a non-stick skillet with a tablespoon of oil and fry on medium heat until golden and cooked through.

What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?

Marinara, ranch, honey mustard, or even a garlic aioli work wonderfully.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for best results.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, just slice chicken breasts into strips for homemade tenders.

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