Quick & Tangy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

Crispy garlic parmesan chicken tenders bring serious flavor to your dinner table without complicated kitchen skills.

My latest obsession combines golden-brown breading with sharp cheese and aromatic seasonings.

Weeknight meals never looked this delicious or easy to prepare.

Each tender promises a perfect balance of crunchy exterior and juicy meat inside.

Simple ingredients from your pantry will create restaurant-quality results in minutes.

Cheese lovers and protein enthusiasts will absolutely adore this straightforward recipe that feels like a gourmet treat.

You are going to want to bookmark this crowd-pleasing dish for future meal planning.

Frequently Asked Questions On Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips that are similar in size to tenders, ensuring even cooking and coating.

• Is it necessary to use fresh garlic or can I use garlic powder?

You can substitute fresh minced garlic with garlic powder. Use about 1-2 teaspoons of garlic powder in the breadcrumb mixture for similar flavor.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make the recipe gluten-free.

• How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s safely cooked through.

Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe Is So Delicious

• Boost Family Mealtime: Perfect for bringing everyone together with a crowd-pleasing dish that kids and adults will love equally.
• Simplify Dinner Prep: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe a stress-free option for busy home cooks seeking delicious results.
• Create Crispy Deliciousness: Parmesan breadcrumb coating delivers incredible texture and flavor, transforming ordinary chicken tenders into a gourmet-style meal that feels special.
• Master Easy Techniques: Beginner-friendly recipe teaches fundamental cooking skills like coating proteins and achieving golden, crispy exteriors without complicated methods.

Ingredients For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Chicken Tenders: Tender strips of chicken that serve as the protein base of the recipe.
• Parmesan Cheese: A hard, flavorful cheese that adds rich, savory taste to the coating.
• Breadcrumbs: Provides a crispy and crunchy exterior for the chicken tenders.

• Garlic, Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall flavor profile of the chicken.

• Butter: Helps the coating adhere to the chicken and adds richness to the dish.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb used for garnishing and adding a pop of color.

How To Prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 400F (200C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Explosion

• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Crispy breadcrumbs
• Finely chopped garlic
• Pinch of salt
• Dash of black pepper

Mix everything until it looks like a magical coating waiting to happen.

Step 3: Transform Chicken Tenders

Dunk each chicken tender into melted butter, creating a slippery base that helps the seasoning stick. Roll the buttery tender through the Parmesan mixture, ensuring every inch gets covered in delicious crumbs. Carefully place each coated tender on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.

Step 4: Bake to Crispy Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the hot oven. Let the chicken bake for 15-20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the exterior turns a gorgeous golden brown and the chicken is completely cooked through.

Step 5: Serve and Celebrate

Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and extra flavor. Plate these crispy wonders and serve immediately. Grab your favorite dipping sauce and get ready for a taste explosion!

Smart Tips For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Use fresh garlic for maximum flavor and punch in the breadcrumb coating.
• Pat chicken tenders dry before coating to help breading stick better and create crispier texture.
• Check internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption using meat thermometer.
• Replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour for celiac-friendly version.
• Experiment with additional herbs like dried oregano or thyme to enhance overall seasoning profile.

Flavor Twists For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Spicy Southwest Chicken Tenders: Add chili powder, cumin, and cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture for a zesty kick. Serve with chipotle ranch dressing.
• Mediterranean Herb Chicken Tenders: Mix dried oregano, basil, and thyme into the coating. Top with crumbled feta cheese after baking.
• Ranch-Coated Chicken Tenders: Replace Parmesan with ranch seasoning mix in the breadcrumb coating. Drizzle with ranch dressing before serving.
• Coconut Crispy Chicken Tenders: Blend shredded coconut with panko breadcrumbs for a tropical crunch. Pair with sweet chili sauce.

Pairing Suggestions For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Pair Perfectly with Zesty Marinara Dip: Homemade marinara sauce with fresh basil and a hint of red pepper flakes will complement the garlic and Parmesan flavors, adding a tangy and slightly spicy kick.
• Sip Crisp Chardonnay: A chilled white wine with light oak notes will balance the richness of the chicken tenders, cutting through the buttery coating and enhancing the garlic-cheese profile.
• Serve Alongside Crisp Mediterranean Salad: A light salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette will provide a fresh contrast to the golden, crispy chicken, creating a balanced meal with bright, refreshing flavors.

Proper Storage Advice For Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

• Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring they are completely cooled before sealing.
• Wrap individual chicken tenders tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Label the bag with the date to track freshness.
• Restore crispiness by preheating the oven to 350F. Arrange tenders on a baking sheet, cover loosely with foil to prevent drying. Warm for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• For quick reheating, place tenders on a microwave-safe plate. Heat in 30-second intervals, checking temperature to avoid overcooking.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.6 from 38 reviews

• Total Time: 25-30 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy garlic parmesan chicken tenders merge Italian-inspired flavors with comforting American cuisine, delivering a mouthwatering experience that elevates classic finger food. Perfectly seasoned and golden-brown, these tenders will become your new favorite weeknight dinner companion.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Proteins:

• 1 pound (450 grams) chicken tenders

Cheese and Seasonings:

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt to taste
• Pepper to taste

Coating and Binding:

• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup butter, melted

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Instructions

1. Arrange the oven rack in the middle position and heat to 400°F (200°C), lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Create a savory coating by thoroughly combining grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, finely minced garlic, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a shallow mixing bowl.
3. Melt butter completely, then individually dunk each chicken tender, ensuring full coverage with the liquid fat.
4. Roll the butter-coated chicken tenders into the seasoned Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere completely and create a uniform, crispy exterior.
5. Carefully arrange the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining slight spacing between pieces to ensure even browning and crisp texture.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, checking internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior turns golden brown and crunchy.
7. Remove from oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, then garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant touch.
8. Plate immediately with your preferred dipping sauce, serving while the chicken remains hot and crisp.

Notes

• Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb, celiac-friendly version.
• Enhance protein content by using Greek yogurt instead of melted butter for a lighter, tangier coating that keeps chicken incredibly moist.
• Experiment with herb variations like rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning to create unique flavor profiles while maintaining the dish’s crispy texture.
• Prep chicken tenders ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking to develop deeper, more intense garlic and Parmesan flavors.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 384 kcal
• Sugar: 0.4 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 11 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0.2 g
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 39 g
• Cholesterol: 105 mg