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
Scale
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.
