Welcome to the crispy world of Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! If you crave a snack that’s packed with flavor and easy to make, you’re in the right place. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up these tasty tenders that are healthier and still delicious. In this article, I’ll walk you through the steps to make these golden delights that everyone will love. Let’s get cooking!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Healthier Option: Baked instead of fried, these chicken tenders are a guilt-free indulgence that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the seasonings or add your favorite spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Kid-Friendly: These crispy chicken tenders are a hit with kids, making mealtime enjoyable for the whole family.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound chicken tenders
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning and Coating Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Egg Mixture Ingredients
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons milk
– Olive oil spray
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. First, I use 1 pound of chicken tenders. They are tender and cook quickly. Next, I grab 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs. These give the chicken that crispy crunch we all love. I also need 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This adds a rich, cheesy flavor.
For seasoning, I use 1 tablespoon of garlic powder. It gives a nice, strong garlic taste. I also add 1 teaspoon of onion powder for a sweet note. One teaspoon of dried Italian herbs brings fresh flavor. I mix in 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper for balance.
Then, I prepare the egg mixture. I whisk 2 large eggs with 2 tablespoons of milk. This mixture helps the breading stick. Lastly, I use olive oil spray. This helps the tenders get crispy while baking.
With these ingredients on hand, we are ready to make a delicious dish that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Oven and Baking Sheet
– Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Preparing the Breading Mixture
– In a bowl, mix together:
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Mix well until everything is combined. This will give your chicken a great flavor.
Preparing the Chicken
– In another bowl, whisk together:
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons milk
Dip each chicken tender in the egg mixture. Let any extra drip off. Then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture. Press down slightly to make sure it sticks. Place each tender on the baking sheet. Spray the tops lightly with olive oil. This helps make them crispy.
Baking the Chicken Tenders
– Now, place the baking sheet in your preheated oven.
– Bake for 20-25 minutes. They should turn golden brown. The internal temperature needs to reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
Serving the Dish
– Once they are done, take the sheet out of the oven.
– Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Crispiness
To get that perfect crunch on your chicken tenders, use olive oil spray. This spray helps the breadcrumbs turn golden and crispy. You should also preheat your oven properly. Set it to 425°F (220°C) before baking. A hot oven cooks the chicken evenly and seals in moisture.
Enhancing Flavor
Want to amp up the taste? Consider adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper. These add a nice kick. When it comes to herbs, fresh always wins. Use fresh parsley for garnish. Dried herbs work well too, but fresh herbs can brighten the dish.
Presentation Ideas
When serving, a side of marinara sauce makes everything better. It adds a tangy flavor that pairs well with chicken. For creative plating, stack the tenders in a fan shape on a platter. Sprinkle some chopped parsley for color. This small touch makes your meal look amazing!
Pro Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: Using fresh, high-quality chicken tenders will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices and herbs to suit your taste preferences; adding a pinch of cayenne can give it a nice kick!
- Monitor Cooking Time: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the chicken tenders as they bake. They’re done when golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve with Dips: Enhance your chicken tenders by serving them with a variety of dips, such as marinara, ranch, or honey mustard for extra flavor.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily change the flavor of these chicken tenders. One great way is to add hot sauce to the egg mixture. This gives a nice kick. Just whisk in a tablespoon or two before dipping the chicken. You can also try different types of cheese. Goat cheese or cheddar can add a unique twist. Each choice brings a new taste, making your meal exciting.
Healthier Alternatives
If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using turkey tenders instead of chicken. Turkey is lean and still very tasty. You can also bake with less cheese. This can help cut calories while keeping flavor. Using just a sprinkle of cheese can still give a great taste.
Dietary Modifications
For those who need gluten-free meals, you can use gluten-free breadcrumbs. They work just as well and taste great. If you want to make it dairy-free, try using nutritional yeast instead of cheese. This gives a cheesy flavor without any dairy. With these options, everyone can enjoy this dish!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in airtight containers. This helps prevent moisture loss and keeps them tasty. Try to eat leftovers within three days for the best flavor.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat in the oven, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet. Bake for about 10-15 minutes. This method keeps them crispy and warm. If you use a microwave, place the tenders on a microwave-safe plate. Heat them for about 30 seconds to one minute. This is fast but may not keep them as crispy.
Freezing Options
You can freeze both unbaked and baked tenders. For unbaked tenders, freeze them on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, place them in a freezer bag. For baked tenders, let them cool completely before freezing. Store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking or reheating. This way, you will have easy meals ready to go!
FAQs
How long do Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders stay fresh?
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders stay fresh for about three days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them moist. You can also freeze them for up to three months. Just thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, you can use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko. However, panko gives a crispier texture. Regular breadcrumbs will work, but they may not be as crunchy. If you want extra crunch, try adding a bit more cheese or spices.
What dipping sauces are best with chicken tenders?
Some great dipping sauces for chicken tenders include:
– Marinara sauce
– Honey mustard
– Ranch dressing
– BBQ sauce
– Garlic aioli
These sauces add flavor and make each bite exciting!
How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?
To check if the chicken tenders are fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). If you don’t have a thermometer, cut one tender in half. It should be white and juices should run clear.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Prepare the chicken tenders and coat them in breadcrumbs. Then, store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready, just pop them in the oven!
This article covered how to make delicious baked garlic Parmesan chicken tenders. You learned about the key ingredients, easy steps, and useful tips to get them perfectly crispy. Remember, you can tweak flavors and make healthier choices to suit your taste. Enjoy your cooking and feel free to share your results with friends or family. Your homemade chicken tenders will impress everyon
