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Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.5 from 52 reviews

These Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a flavorful and crunchy twist on traditional chicken tenders. Coated in a mixture of grated Parmesan cheese and seasoned breadcrumbs, then baked to golden perfection, they deliver a satisfying crisp texture without frying. Perfect as a healthy appetizer or main dish, they combine savory herbs with the nutty richness of Parmesan for a deliciously easy-to-make meal.

Ingredients

Chicken

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken tenders

Breading

  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs (or plain breadcrumbs/panko for extra crunch)

Binding

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For Cooking

  • Olive oil or non-stick cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Prepare the Breading Mixture: In a shallow dish, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian-style breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the seasonings and cheese.
  3. Beat the Eggs: In another shallow bowl, beat the two large eggs thoroughly. These will act as the binding agent for the breading mixture to stick to the chicken tenders.
  4. Coat the Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, ensuring all sides are coated. Then press the chicken into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, coating evenly and pressing gently to adhere the coating firmly.
  5. Place on Baking Sheet: Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer without overlapping to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
  6. Apply Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the coated chicken tenders with olive oil or non-stick cooking spray. This helps achieve a golden-brown and crispy exterior without adding excessive fat.
  7. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes, turning the tenders halfway through cooking to ensure all sides are crispy and the chicken is cooked through.
  8. Check for Doneness: The chicken tenders should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and be golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  9. Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.

Notes

  • For extra crunch, substitute plain breadcrumbs with panko breadcrumbs.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and crispiness.
  • Adjust seasonings according to your taste preferences.
  • Ensure chicken tenders are not overcrowded on the baking sheet for even cooking.
  • Cooking spray can be replaced with a light drizzle of olive oil.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked but still juicy.