If you’re craving a dish that’s irresistibly crunchy on the outside yet tender and juicy on the inside, look no further than this Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of savory Parmesan, aromatic garlic, and a hint of paprika, all wrapped in a super crispy panko crust that’s baked to perfection in your oven. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these chicken tenders bring comfort and excitement to the table with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—just a handful of ingredients that each play a key role in making these chicken tenders flavorful, golden, and crisp. Every item is thoughtfully chosen to build layers of taste and texture, ensuring your Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe is nothing short of amazing.
- Chicken tenders (1½ pounds): Tender, lean protein that cooks quickly and stays juicy inside.
- Panko breadcrumbs (1 cup): These provide an ultra-crispy, light coating for the perfect crunch.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Adds a rich, nutty flavor that takes the crust to the next level.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Infuses a warm, savory aroma that complements the cheese beautifully.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): Brings a subtle smokiness and a pop of color.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the seasoning.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just the right amount of bite to elevate the dish.
- Eggs (2 large): Acts as a sticky binder to make sure the coating adheres perfectly.
- Milk (2 tablespoons): Lightens the egg mixture for even coating and moisture.
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray: Helps crisp the tenders evenly in the oven without extra grease.
How to Make Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
First things first, get your oven warmed up to a nice, hot 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This high temperature ensures the chicken tenders bake quickly and become beautifully golden. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then give it a light spritz with olive oil spray to prevent sticking and promote a crisp crust.
Step 2: Mix the Crispy Coating
In a shallow bowl, toss together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This combination not only packs bold, savory flavors but also guarantees a crunchy, irresistible texture once baked. This step is the foundation of your crispy coating, so mix everything evenly.
Step 3: Whisk the Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with the milk until smooth and well combined. This mixture will act as the glue, helping the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture stick firmly to each chicken tender.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
One at a time, dip each chicken tender into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture ensuring every angle is covered with that glorious, cheesy coating. The thoroughness here ensures each bite delivers the perfect balance of juicy chicken and crisp crust.
Step 5: Arrange and Prepare to Bake
Place the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so the heat circulates evenly and helps keep the crispiness intact. No overcrowding is key to perfect crunch. Finally, give the tops a light spray of olive oil to help them brown up beautifully as they bake.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Pop your tray in the preheated oven and bake for 18 to 20 minutes. Remember to flip the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides become evenly golden and crunchy. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) and the coating is a stunning golden-brown.
Step 7: Serve Hot and Enjoy!
Remove your freshly baked tenders from the oven and serve immediately for the best crunch experience. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces and sides to round out this comforting and tasty meal.
How to Serve Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can elevate presentation and boost flavor. Try sprinkling chopped fresh parsley or basil on top for a bright, herbaceous note that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the Parmesan crust. A light squeeze of lemon juice over the tenders adds a subtle zing that brightens the dish instantly.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal, serve these chicken tenders alongside crisp green salads, creamy mashed potatoes, or simple roasted vegetables. Crispy sweet potato fries or a tangy coleslaw are fantastic options that complement the crunchy, cheesy chicken without overpowering it. The sides can be as comforting or as fresh as you prefer!
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress? Serve the tenders on a rustic wooden board accompanied by an array of dipping sauces—think tangy honey mustard, zesty ranch, or a spicy sriracha mayo. Arrange them with colorful vegetable sticks or even atop a bed of mixed greens for an inviting appetizer platter that’s perfect for gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispiness, avoid sealing the tenders while still hot or stacking them tightly in the container.
Freezing
This Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe is freezer-friendly! Let the tenders cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months and are perfect to pull out for a quick snack or meal.
Reheating
To bring back that wonderful crispiness, reheat the tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crunchy texture intact, as it tends to make the coating soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! You can slice chicken breasts into strips that mimic tender size and follow the same coating and baking process for equally delicious results.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just swap out the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the dish safe for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy inside?
The key is not to overbake. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, aiming for 165°F (74°C). Using chicken tenders helps as they cook quickly and remain tender when properly baked.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just be sure to give the tenders enough space on your baking sheets or bake in batches to maintain crispiness and even cooking.
What are some good dipping sauces for these chicken tenders?
Classic choices like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch, or a spicy aioli all pair fantastic with the crispy Parmesan crust, enhancing the flavor and adding extra fun to every bite.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about biting into these golden, crunchy, flavorful Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe that it becomes an instant favorite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe offers the perfect balance of ease, taste, and comfort. Give it a try, and I promise it will quickly become your go-to for fuss-free, delicious meals!
Print
Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe offers a deliciously crunchy and flavorful alternative to fried chicken tenders. Coated with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and aromatic spices, these tenders are baked to golden perfection, making them a healthier yet equally satisfying choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ pounds chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
Additional
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Breading Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.
- Make Egg Wash: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. This will help the breading stick to the chicken tenders.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated. Then dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture until evenly covered.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they aren’t touching for even cooking and crisping.
- Apply Oil Spray: Lightly mist the tops of the coated tenders with olive oil spray to help them bake up crispy and golden.
- Bake: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 18–20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure both sides become crispy and golden. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Serve the crispy Parmesan chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of dried Italian herbs or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- You can use any type of milk, including dairy-free alternatives, for the egg wash.
- Make sure to flip the tenders halfway through baking to get a uniform crispiness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for perfectly cooked chicken.
- These tenders are best served immediately but can be kept warm in a low oven if needed.
