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
Scale
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
