Introduction
When it comes to comfort food, chicken tenders are a classic, but I wanted to make them even better. These Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are everything you love about chicken tenders—crispy, flavorful, and satisfying—without all the grease from frying. The crispy coating is made from a perfect blend of Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, and seasonings, giving each tender a golden, crunchy exterior and a juicy, tender inside.
I’ve made these tenders countless times, and they always disappear faster than I can serve them! Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a snack, or a dish to impress your guests, these oven-baked chicken tenders hit the mark. Plus, baking them in the oven makes them healthier without sacrificing flavor or texture.
What’s even better is how versatile this recipe is. You can dip these crispy chicken tenders in your favorite sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara, or serve them as the star of a salad or wrap. These tenders are perfect for a family meal, game day, or a casual dinner with friends. Once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your recipe rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
These tenders can be served with a variety of dipping sauces, or even used as a topping for salads, wraps, or sandwiches. The crispy, cheesy coating makes them suitable for all occasions.
Budget-Friendly
Chicken tenders are an affordable protein, and with simple pantry staples like breadcrumbs and Parmesan, you can make a delicious meal without breaking the bank.
Ingredients for the Recipe
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1 pound chicken tenders (about 10–12 tenders)
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1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
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1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon onion powder
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1/2 teaspoon paprika
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1/4 teaspoon black pepper
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2 large eggs
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2 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
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Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How to Make This Recipe
These oven-baked crispy Parmesan chicken tenders are simple to prepare, and they deliver a flavorful and crunchy result that will have everyone coming back for more. Let’s walk through the easy steps to make this tasty dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is perfect for ensuring that the chicken tenders become crispy without drying out. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent the tenders from sticking. Set aside.
Step 2: Set up the breading station
To get that crispy, golden crust, you’ll need to create a breading station. In one shallow bowl, whisk the eggs until well-beaten. In a second shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is evenly combined.
Step 3: Coat the chicken tenders
Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture first, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well to the chicken. You want each tender to be covered with a thick, even layer of breadcrumbs and cheese. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.
Step 4: Arrange the chicken tenders on the baking sheet
Once all of the chicken tenders are coated, place them in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure there is a bit of space between each tender to allow for even cooking and crisping. Drizzle the tenders with olive oil or melted butter to help them crisp up in the oven.
Step 5: Bake the tenders
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and crispy on the outside. To ensure the tenders cook evenly, flip them halfway through the baking time. The chicken should be fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.
Step 6: Garnish and serve
Once the chicken tenders are crispy and golden, remove them from the oven. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle the tenders with finely chopped parsley. Serve these crispy Parmesan chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces, like ranch, honey mustard, or marinara.
Quick and Easy
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a few ingredients and about 30 minutes of cook time, you can have a batch of crispy, Parmesan-coated chicken tenders ready to serve. There’s no frying involved, so cleanup is a breeze, and the oven does most of the work. This makes it the perfect recipe for a quick dinner or meal prep for the week.
Customizable
One of the best things about these oven-baked chicken tenders is how customizable they are. You can adjust the seasonings based on your preferences. If you like a little heat, try adding some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a variation on the classic Parmesan flavor. If you’re looking to make these tenders even more wholesome, try using whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of traditional white breadcrumbs.
Perfect for Guests
These crispy Parmesan chicken tenders are great for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with family or entertaining guests at a party. They’re easy to make in large batches, and everyone will love the crispy, cheesy crust and tender, juicy chicken inside. You can even make them as appetizers or finger foods for a gathering, and serve with a variety of dipping sauces to keep things interesting.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but you’ll need to cut them into strips or tenders. Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken, so be sure to check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F (75°C).
Can I make these tenders gluten-free?
Absolutely! To make these chicken tenders gluten-free, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers. Be sure to check that your Parmesan cheese and other seasonings are gluten-free as well.
How can I make these tenders spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, you can easily add spice to the recipe. Try incorporating cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce into the breadcrumb mixture to give your tenders an extra kick.
Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders in advance by breading them and storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Alternatively, you can freeze them after breading and bake them straight from the freezer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly if baking from frozen.
Can I bake the tenders in an air fryer?
Yes, air frying these tenders is a great option if you prefer even crispier results with less oil. Set the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and cook the tenders for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.