Easy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

If you’re searching for a deliciously crispy, cheesy, and flavorful meal that comes together in no time, this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe is exactly what you need. These tenders are perfectly seasoned and coated in a savory blend of garlic and parmesan, making every bite irresistible. Whether you’re feeding the family or prepping a quick dinner, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders deliver on taste and ease every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples that are easy to find and combine effortlessly.
• Quick Prep Time: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute cravings.
• Crunchy and Cheesy: The crispy coating pairs beautifully with the rich parmesan for a flavor-packed experience.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love these chicken tenders, making mealtime stress-free.
• Versatile Dish: Great as a main course, snack, or party appetizer, with endless serving options.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe plays a key role, from building flavor to creating that signature crunchy, cheesy crust. They’re simple yet essential, so you get the perfect combination of taste, texture, and color in every bite.

• Chicken Tenders: Fresh or thawed strips work best for tender, flavorful bites.
• Parmesan Cheese: Finely grated for a rich, salty punch that crisps perfectly.
• Garlic Powder: Adds a savory warmth that infuses every coating layer.
• Breadcrumbs: Use panko for extra crunch or regular for a finer crust.
• Eggs: Acts as the glue to help the coating stick to each tender.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential to bring out the flavors and balance the seasoning.
• Olive Oil or Cooking Spray: For baking or frying, ensuring golden, crispy edges.
• Optional Fresh Parsley: To brighten the finished dish with a fresh herbal note.

Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Customizing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is a breeze. You can easily adapt the recipe to your dietary preferences, available ingredients, or simply mix things up to keep it exciting and uniquely yours.

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a zesty twist.
• Herb Infusion: Mix dried Italian herbs or fresh rosemary into the breadcrumb mix.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Keto-Friendly: Use crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs to keep it low-carb.
• Cheese Variety: Swap parmesan for asiago or pecorino for a different cheesy flavor profile.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, breadcrumbs, salt, and pepper. This blend forms the flavorful, crispy crust that makes these tenders so crave-worthy.

Step 2: Set Up the Dipping Station

Beat eggs in a separate bowl. You’ll be dipping each chicken tender into the eggs before coating in the parmesan mixture to ensure the breading sticks well.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the egg wash, letting excess drip off, then press into the parmesan breadcrumb mixture until thoroughly coated on all sides.

Step 4: Cook Until Golden

Choose your cooking method: either bake the tenders on a greased baking sheet at 425°F for 15–20 minutes until golden and cooked through or pan-fry them in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until crispy and no longer pink inside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, let the tenders rest briefly, garnish if desired, and dive in while they’re hot and crunchy.

Pro Tips for Making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

• Use Fresh Parmesan: Freshly grated cheese melts and crisps better than pre-grated versions.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If frying, cook in batches to maintain crispiness and even cooking.
• Pat Dry Chicken: Removing excess moisture from tenders helps the coating stick better.
• Double Dipping: For extra crunch, dip tenders in egg and breadcrumbs twice before cooking.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the tenders rest a few minutes to set the crust and keep juices inside.

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley, a sprinkle of extra parmesan, or a drizzle of garlic butter adds that finishing touch to brighten flavors and enhance presentation beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve with classic sides like crispy fries, a crisp green salad, or roasted vegetables to round out the meal perfectly without overpowering the tenders.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn tenders into sliders with mini buns, use them as crunchy salad toppers, or serve with a trio of dipping sauces like ranch, marinara, and honey mustard for a party platter everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooled Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, keeping them crispier if separated with parchment paper.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked, coated tenders on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months – bake directly from frozen for best results.

Reheating

Reheat tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F to restore their crispiness; avoid microwaving as it makes the coating soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes! Slice chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders for even cooking and follow the same coating and cooking process.

Is this recipe suitable for air frying?

Absolutely! Air frying at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes produces crispy, delicious tenders with less oil.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Try substituting parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative, and ensure breadcrumbs don’t contain dairy ingredients.

What sauces pair well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Ranch, honey mustard, marinara, garlic aioli, or even a spicy sriracha mayo all complement the flavors brilliantly.

How can I make these tenders extra crispy?

Use panko breadcrumbs, double dip the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs, and bake or fry at a slightly higher temperature for a shorter time.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders bring an unbeatable combination of ease, flavor, and crunch that brightens up any meal. They’re versatile, quick, and so satisfying that once you try this recipe, it will surely become a favorite in your cooking rotation. So go ahead, grab those ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to the deliciousness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders tonight!

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