Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious and easy-to-make dish perfect for both kids and adults. These golden-brown tenders are coated in a flavorful mixture of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, then baked or fried to perfection. Whether served as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, they offer a crunchy exterior with juicy, tender chicken inside.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Packed with flavor from Parmesan cheese and seasonings
- Can be baked or fried for different textures
- A healthier alternative to store-bought frozen tenders
- Perfect for dipping in your favorite sauces
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken tenders
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Panko breadcrumbs
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray (if baking)
- Vegetable oil (if frying)
Directions
- Prepare the Breading Stations: In three separate bowls, place flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and seasonings in the third.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in flour, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally coat it evenly with the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture.
- Cooking Options:
- Baking: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Arrange the breaded tenders on a lined baking sheet and lightly spray them with cooking spray. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.
- Frying: Heat vegetable oil in a deep pan to 350°F (175°C). Fry the tenders in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Drain on paper towels.
- Serve: Let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Herb-Infused: Mix in Italian seasoning or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Air Fryer Option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked breaded tenders on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
- Reheating: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
FAQs
How do I make sure the chicken stays crispy?
For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet or pan while cooking.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips for similar results.
What dipping sauces go well with Parmesan chicken tenders?
Popular choices include marinara, ranch, honey mustard, and buffalo sauce.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can bread the tenders in advance and refrigerate them for a few hours before cooking.
How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
Press the breading firmly onto the chicken and let the coated tenders rest for a few minutes before cooking.
Are these chicken tenders kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love their crispy texture and cheesy flavor.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko provides a crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness rather than using a microwave.
Can I make these dairy-free?
Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are an easy, flavorful dish that can be prepared in multiple ways to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether baked, fried, or air-fried, they make a fantastic meal or snack for any occasion. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy their crispy, cheesy goodness!
Print
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are coated in a flavorful Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, then baked or fried to crunchy perfection. A delicious twist on classic chicken tenders with a cheesy, golden crust!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Cooking oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat oil in a pan for frying.
- In a bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat each chicken tender in flour, then dip into the egg mixture, then coat with the Parmesan-panko mix.
- For baking: Place on a greased baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- For frying: Fry in hot oil for about 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauce!
Notes
- Use fresh Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Air fryer option: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes