Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders: A Delightful Twist on a Family Favorite

Whether you’re searching for a comforting weeknight dinner or a new dish for your Sunday game day menu, these crispy Parmesan chicken tenders are sure to become a family favorite. This simple, delicious recipe is not only easy to make but also delivers a wonderful blend of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.

The Story Behind This Crispy Delight

The inspiration for this dish comes from the classic love for chicken Parmesan and the undeniable appeal of easy-to-eat finger foods. Combining the crispy, savory taste of fried chicken with the rich, cheesy flavor of Parmesan, this recipe was developed to offer a quick and satisfying meal that is both kid-friendly and appealing to adults.

Why You’ll Love These Parmesan Chicken Tenders

• Flavorful Crunch: The golden crust is perfectly seasoned and the addition of Parmesan gives it a delightful cheesy taste.
• Versatility at Its Best: Enjoy them baked for a healthier option or fried for that irresistible crunch.
• Quick and Easy: From prep to plate in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• A Hit with All Ages: Guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.

Quick Grocery List

For the Chicken Tenders:

• Chicken tenders or breasts
• Salt, black pepper
• Garlic powder, paprika

For the Breading:

• Flour
• Eggs
• Milk
• Panko breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese

Optional for Garnish:

• Fresh parsley

Things to Consider Before Preparing Your Meal

• Prep & Cook Time: Total of 35 minutes
• Equipment Checklist: Shallow bowls, baking sheet or deep skillet, tongs, meat thermometer
• Dietary Adjustments: Can be made gluten-free by substituting flour and breadcrumbs
• Serving Size: Serves 4

Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe – Easy Homemade Baked or Fried Chicken Strips with Cheese

DifficultyEasy

Servings4

Prep time15 minutes

Cook time20 minutes

Total time35 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the Chicken Tenders:

• 1.5 lbs (about 680g) chicken tenders or boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika

For the Breading:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, (optional, for garnish)

For Frying (Optional):

• Vegetable oil, for frying (about 2-3 cups if deep frying)

Instructions:

• 1

  Prep the Chicken:

  • Pat the chicken strips dry with a paper towel. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• 2

  Prepare the Breading Station:

  • Set up 3 shallow bowls:
  • • Bowl 1: Add flour
    • Bowl 2: Beat eggs with milk
    • Bowl 3: Mix panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese
• 3

  Bread the Chicken:

  • Dip each chicken strip first into the flour, then into the egg mixture, and finally coat well in the panko-Parmesan mixture. Press gently to adhere.
• 4

  Cooking Options:
  To Bake:

  • • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

    • Place breaded chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

    • Spray generously with cooking spray.

    • Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).

  To Fry:

  • • Heat 2 inches of oil in a deep skillet or Dutch oven to 350°F (175°C).

    • Fry chicken tenders in batches for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

    • Remove and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.

• 5

  Serve:

  • Garnish with parsley and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Equipment Used:

• 3 shallow bowls
• Baking sheet or deep skillet
• Tongs
• Meat thermometer (recommended)
• Parchment paper (for baking)

Nutrition

Calories	420
Carbohydrates	20g
Cholesterol	135mg
Fat	23g
Fiber	1g
Protein	35g
Saturated Fat	6g
Sodium	730mg
Sugar	1g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	14g

General Notes

Ensure your chicken tenders are dry before breading for the best adherence of the coating. If baking, a wire rack on a baking sheet helps circulate air for even crispness.

Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free panko.
• Dairy-Free: Omit Parmesan or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper to the breading mix.
• Herb-Infused: Mix dried Italian herbs into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra flavor boost.

Let’s Get Cooking: Pro Tips

• Tip 1: Chill breaded tenders for 10 minutes before cooking to help the coating stick.
• Tip 2: If frying, maintain oil temperature between batches for consistency.
• Tip 3: Let baked tenders rest for 5 minutes after oven to retain juiciness.

Art Of Perfect Chicken Tenders

Mastering the perfect crust involves ensuring your breading components are well seasoned and your cooking oil is at the right temperature. For baking, a high heat and a spray of oil will help achieve a golden finish.

Nutrition Breakdown (Per Serving)

• Calories: 420
• Carbohydrates: 20g – Mostly from the breading, opt for whole wheat for a fiber boost.
• Protein: 35g – Excellent source for muscle repair and growth.

Storing and Reheating

Cool leftovers before storing in the fridge, and reheat in an oven for best texture. Avoid microwaving to keep the breading crisp.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bread them up to a day in advance and chill until ready to cook.

Q: Can I freeze cooked chicken tenders?
A: Absolutely, freeze on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven.

Q: Are these chicken tenders suitable for a low-carb diet?
A: For a low-carb version, use almond flour and crush pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs.

Engage and Share

Loved this recipe? Leave a comment below and share your delicious results or any tweaks you made! And if you’re craving more, try out some of our other chicken dishes!

• Tasty Chipotle Lime Chicken & Sweet Potato Bowls
• Sweet & Spicy Mango Habanero Chicken Bites
• Spiced Mango & Black Bean Chicken Quesadilla Recipe

Ready to dive into the delectable world of crispy, cheesy goodness with these Parmesan Chicken Tenders? Prepare your taste buds for a delightful experience that combines all the joy of comfort food with the ease of a quick homemade meal!