Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the perfect weeknight meal that brings comfort food to a whole new level. These crispy, tender morsels are not only a delightful dish for the whole family but also a recipe that checks all the boxes for both taste and simplicity. There’s something truly magical about the combination of garlic and Parmesan that elevates plain chicken to a delectable treat, making it a go-to choice for dinners, game days, or snacks.
Why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table
When you’re looking for a meal that strikes the right balance between flavor and ease, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders should be at the top of your list. They come together quickly, making them an excellent option for busy weeknights. Plus, they’re budget-friendly and kid-approved, which means they’re likely to please even the pickiest eaters. Imagine serving these crunchy tenders with your favorite dipping sauce while savoring their garlicky aroma. Perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or even a casual brunch, this recipe is your ticket to a culinary win.
“These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders blew my family away! They were crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. My kids couldn’t get enough!” — Happy Home Cook
The magic behind Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is a straightforward process that simplifies your cooking experience. With just a few steps, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to impress. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your chicken tenders—easy enough, right? You’ll be setting up three bowls: one for seasoned flour, another for a flavorful garlic oil dip, and the last for a crunchy Panko-Parmesan mix. This method ensures your tenders are perfectly coated for that irresistible crunch.
Gather these items
To create this dish, you’ll need:
- 1 1/4 pounds boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour blend)
- 6 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Optional:
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- A pinch of cayenne for heat
- 1/2–1 teaspoon dried basil
- A pinch of paprika for color
Feel free to substitute or adjust any seasonings to suit your taste.
Time to get cooking
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken tenders and pat them dry to ensure a crispy coating.
- Establish your assembly line: Prepare three shallow bowls—one with seasoned flour, another with the garlic oil dip, and the last for the Panko breadcrumb mixture flavored with Parmesan.
- Begin by dredging each tender in the flour, then dip it into the garlic oil, and finish by coating it with the Panko mix.
- Arrange the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the chicken for 15 minutes, then flip each tender and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes until golden and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Let the tenders rest for 2 minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for maximum enjoyment.
How to plate and pair your delicious chicken tenders
When it comes to serving your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, the options are endless. Create a delightful platter with fresh veggies like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes. For a touch of color and flavor, add a small bowl of ranch dressing or homemade garlic aioli on the side. If you want to make it a complete meal, consider pairing these tenders with a refreshing salad or crispy fries.
Keeping leftovers fresh
If you happen to have leftovers, don’t worry! Store your chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag, where they’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven at 400°F until warmed through for that same delightful crunch.
Tips for transforming your cooking experience
- Pound your chicken tenders slightly before coating; this helps them cook evenly and remain juicy.
- Experiment with spices! Try adding a bit of Italian seasoning or smoked paprika to the Panko mix for an extra flavor dimension.
- Don’t skimp on resting time; letting them sit for a couple of minutes after baking helps them stay juicy.
Creative twists to try
- Buffalo Style: Add a coat of buffalo sauce before dipping in the Panko mix for a spicy kick.
- Herb-Crusted Tenders: Mix fresh herbs like parsley or chives into your Panko for vibrant flavor.
- Cheesy Goodness: For an extra cheesy treat, sprinkle additional Parmesan on top during the last few minutes of baking.
Common questions about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
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How long does it take to prepare?
- Prep time is about 15 minutes, with a total cooking time of around 20-25 minutes.
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Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
- Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips.
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Are these tenders gluten-free?
- You can swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free Panko.
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What dipping sauces pair well with this dish?
- Consider ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce for dipping.
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Can I meal prep these?
- Yes! Prepare and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick meals any day of the week.
Enjoy your meal!
I hope you give these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders a try! They’re not only simple to make but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Feel free to share your experiences in the comments below—I’d love to hear how they turned out for you!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Trim any excess fat from the chicken tenders and pat them dry to ensure a crispy coating.
- Prepare three shallow bowls—one with seasoned flour, another with the garlic oil dip, and the last for the Panko breadcrumb mixture flavored with Parmesan.
- Begin by dredging each tender in the flour, then dip it into the garlic oil, and finish by coating it with the Panko mix.
- Arrange the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet.
- Bake the chicken for 15 minutes, then flip each tender and bake for an additional 5-8 minutes until golden and fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Let the tenders rest for 2 minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce.