Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders are a crispy, flavorful twist on a classic favorite. These tenders are coated in a delicious blend of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs, giving them a golden, crunchy exterior with a juicy, tender center. Perfect as a kid-friendly meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these chicken tenders pack tons of flavor in every bite. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an easy and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or regular)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (optional for extra crispiness)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Breading Station: In one bowl, mix the grated Parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and water. Place the flour in a third bowl.
- Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the egg mixture, then coat it thoroughly with the Parmesan and breadcrumb mixture, pressing the crumbs onto the chicken to adhere well.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. For extra crispiness, drizzle the tenders with a little olive oil or melted butter before baking.
- Bake: Bake the chicken tenders for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve the Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauce, like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.
Enjoy your crispy and cheesy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders for a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal or snack!
