Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe is a game-changer for your weeknight dinners! If you’re looking for crispy bites bursting with flavor, you’ve hit the jackpot. Picture tender chicken breasts coated in a mix of garlic, parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs, baked to golden perfection. This dish is not just a hit with kids; adults love it too! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce, and you’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
What Makes Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Special?
Flavor Combination
The combination of garlic and parmesan creates a rich and savory taste. The garlic adds a nice punch, while the parmesan brings a nutty flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
Easy to Make
Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced cook. This recipe is straightforward! With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delightful meal in no time.
Healthy Option
Baking these tenders instead of frying them makes for a healthier option. They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside but won’t leave you feeling heavy afterwards.
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders (you can also use chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned, depending on your taste)
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic ( minced)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (to enhance the flavor)
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or your spices of choice)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 egg (beaten)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (to help with crispiness)
Optional Dipping Sauces
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing
- Honey mustard
- BBQ sauce
How to Prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your chicken tenders cook evenly and get that lovely golden color.
Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This keeps the tenders from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze!
Mix the Coating
In a mixing bowl, combine your breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This mixture is where all the flavor comes from!
Coat the Chicken
- Dip each chicken tender into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated.
- Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure the coating sticks.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle with Olive Oil
After arranging the chicken tenders on the baking sheet, drizzle a little olive oil over the top. This helps them get nice and crispy in the oven.
Bake the Tenders
Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. If you want to achieve an extra crispy texture, consider turning the broiler on for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
How to Know When They Are Ready
A meat thermometer is a handy tool here. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. If you don’t have one, just cut one tender in half to check that there’s no pink remaining.
Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
To take your chicken tender game to the next level, here are some handy tips:
Use Fresh Herbs
If you have fresh herbs on hand, feel free to add them to the coating. Fresh parsley, thyme, or basil can enhance the flavor and add a lovely color contrast.
Make It a Meal
These chicken tenders can easily be transformed into a complete meal. Consider serving them alongside a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a filling dinner.
Leftover Ideas
If you have any leftovers, don’t fret! These tenders make for a delicious lunch the next day. Chop them up and toss them in a salad, or throw them in a wrap with some veggies and dressing.
Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Not going to finish all those tenders in one sitting? No problem! Here’s how to store them properly:
Refrigerating Leftovers
- Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps to maintain their crispiness.
Freezing
If you want to make a batch ahead of time:
- After cooling, place the cooked chicken tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
- To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes.
Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Feeling adventurous? You can switch up the flavors in your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:
Spicy Version
Add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick that adds a fun twist.
Herb-Infused Tenders
Substitute the garlic powder with a combination of fresh herbs, like rosemary or thyme, for a more aromatic experience.
Cheese Lovers
Mix in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese with the parmesan for an even cheesier treat.
How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Serving the tenders right is key! Here are some delicious suggestions:
Casual Dinners
Serve alongside classic sides such as coleslaw or potato wedges. A cool salad balances the savory flavors perfectly.
Party Platter
They make a great addition to any party spread! Arrange the chicken tenders on a platter with assorted dipping sauces for a fun appetizer.
Family Fun Night
Combine your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with homemade pizza for a themed family dinner everyone will enjoy!
Nutritional Benefits of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Not only are these tenders delicious, but they also come with some nutritional perks!
Chicken Health Benefits
Chicken is a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth. It’s also rich in B vitamins that help your body convert food into energy.
Parmesan Cheese Benefits
Parmesan cheese adds calcium and phosphorus, crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. It also brings a punch of flavor without much added fat.
Good Fats from Olive Oil
Olive oil is a healthy fat that can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.