If you’re on the hunt for a dish that perfectly balances crunch, flavor, and a touch of cheesy goodness, look no further than this Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe. It takes simple chicken tenders and transforms them with a golden, crisp Parmesan and panko coating that bakes up beautifully in the oven. This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthier alternative to fried tenders without sacrificing the satisfying crispiness everyone’s craving. Whether you’re cooking for kids or just treating yourself, these tenders are destined to become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe lies in its straightforward and complementary ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role—from the flour that helps the coating stick, to the Parmesan that infuses each bite with that rich, savory flavor.
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders: Use fresh tenders for juicy, tender results every time.
- ½ cup all-purpose flour: Helps the egg mixture cling to the chicken and creates a base layer for crispiness.
- 2 large eggs: Beaten and combined with water, the eggs act as the perfect binder for the coating.
- 1 tablespoon water: Thins the eggs slightly, making it easier to coat the tenders evenly.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides a light, airy crunch that’s key to the crispy texture.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a deliciously nutty, cheesy flavor that’s the star of the crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the coating with warm, savory notes.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a fragrant, herbaceous lift, rounding out the flavor profile beautifully.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors and seasoning balance.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of subtle spice.
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray: Helps achieve that golden, crispy finish when baking.
How to Make Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Setup
Begin by preheating your oven to a sizzling 425°F (220°C) to ensure those tenders bake up nice and crisp. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze. If you have a wire rack, placing it on the baking sheet is a great tip to promote even air circulation and extra crunch.
Step 2: Create Your Dredging Stations
Setting up your three shallow bowls makes the breading process fun and efficient. In the first bowl, add the flour. The second bowl holds your beaten eggs mixed with a tablespoon of water—this thins the eggs just enough to coat evenly. The third bowl is your flavorful crumb mixture: combine panko breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. This blend is where the crispy, cheesy magic happens.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Take each chicken tender and dredge it first in the flour, tapping off any excess so you don’t end up with flour clumps. Next, dip the tender into the egg mixture, allowing any extra to drip off. Finally, press it into the Parmesan and breadcrumb blend, ensuring every bit is evenly coated. This triple-layer breading is key to that perfect crackly crust.
Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Give them a light spritz of cooking spray on top which will help the crust turn that irresistible golden brown. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, and don’t forget to flip the tenders halfway through! This ensures both sides get equally crispy while cooking the chicken through to juicy perfection. Keep an eye out for that gorgeous color and make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safety.
How to Serve Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of extra Parmesan right before serving can brighten the plate and amp up the appeal. For a touch of freshness and color, lemon wedges serve beautifully—add a squeeze for a zesty, tangy punch that contrasts so well with the savory coating.
Side Dishes
Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders go amazingly well with a variety of sides. Think classic options like creamy mashed potatoes or a crisp green salad to balance textures. Roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw can also complement the crunchy chicken while keeping your meal vibrant and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not turn these tenders into a fun party platter? Arrange them alongside colorful veggie sticks and several dipping sauces—think marinara, creamy ranch, or honey mustard. You could even slice and layer them on top of a fresh salad or stuff them inside a warm pita with greens and a drizzle of your favorite sauce, creating a delicious handheld sandwich.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe, no worries! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled properly helps maintain their juicy interior without sacrificing the crisp coating too much.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze cooked tenders. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method prevents them from sticking together, so you can thaw and reheat just what you need. Properly frozen, they last for up to 2 months.
Reheating
The best way to bring back that irresistible crunch is by reheating in the oven or an air fryer at around 350°F until warmed through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the coating from turning soggy. A few minutes on each side should do the trick.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just slice the chicken breasts into strips about the size of tenders. The coating and baking method will still work wonderfully, though cooking times might be a minute or two longer depending on thickness.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The mild seasoning and crispy texture make these tenders a hit with kids, especially when paired with their favorite dipping sauces. Plus, baking instead of frying makes it a healthier choice for lunch or dinner.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. Many stores carry gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour blends that work perfectly for maintaining the crispy texture and binding.
What dipping sauces pair best with this recipe?
Classic marinara, honey mustard, garlic aioli, or ranch dressing all complement the Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe beautifully. Feel free to get creative with spicy buffalo sauce or a tangy barbecue dip too!
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy inside?
The key is not to overcook. Keeping an eye on the baking time and flipping halfway ensures the tenders bake evenly. Using tender chicken pieces also helps, as they cook quickly and retain moisture under a crunchy crust.
Final Thoughts
This Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe is a true game-changer for anyone craving that perfect crunch without the deep-fried mess. It’s approachable, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings alike. Give it a try soon—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy chicken tenders!
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Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Kid-Friendly
Description
These Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious, healthier take on classic fried chicken strips. Coated in a flavorful panko and Parmesan crust, they bake to golden perfection, offering a crunchy exterior with juicy, tender chicken inside. Perfect for a kid-friendly dinner or a quick weeknight meal, these tenders pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Chicken and Coating
- 1 ½ pounds chicken tenders
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Instructions
- Prepare the oven and baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and to facilitate easy cleanup.
- Set up dredging stations: Arrange three shallow bowls. In the first, place the all-purpose flour. In the second, beat the eggs with 1 tablespoon of water until well combined. In the third bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Coat the chicken tenders: Take each chicken tender and dredge it in flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated. Finally, coat it thoroughly with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating adheres well.
- Place and spray the tenders: Arrange the coated chicken tenders evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or olive oil spray to help achieve a crispy, golden crust during baking.
- Bake the chicken tenders: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders once halfway through cooking. The tenders should be golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve hot: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, ranch, or marinara.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, place a wire rack on the baking sheet and arrange the tenders on the rack so heat circulates all around.
- These tenders also work wonderfully in an air fryer at 400°F for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
