Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

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Sometimes the simplest recipes end up being the most requested ones, and that’s exactly what happened with these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. I wasn’t planning to fall in love with them—they were supposed to be a quick fix, something I whipped up on a busy weeknight. But one bite in and I knew I had stumbled into something utterly addictive. Crisp on the outside, juicy and tender on the inside, and with a flavor that kept me coming back for more.

What I love most is the balance. The sharp nuttiness of the Parmesan melts into the garlicky butter that clings to every golden crust. It’s comfort food, elevated without being fussy. And the smell? Irresistible. Every time I make these, the entire kitchen fills with a savory aroma that draws everyone to the table before I even plate them.

Whether you’re serving these for game night, an easy family dinner, or just because you’re craving something crunchy and cheesy, these chicken tenders deliver every time. They’re also oven-baked, which makes me feel better about making them as often as I do.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are more than just a kid-friendly dinner option. They’re wildly flavorful and far more satisfying than anything you’d find in a frozen bag. The breadcrumb coating becomes wonderfully crisp in the oven, and every bite is infused with garlic and real Parmesan. They’re simple enough to whip up midweek, yet special enough to serve when company comes. Plus, they pair beautifully with just about any dip or side dish you can think of.

Ingredients

Chicken tenders are the base of the recipe, offering a lean and tender protein that cooks quickly and evenly.

Fresh garlic is essential here. It infuses the butter and breading with its signature depth and pungency, elevating the flavor.

Parmesan cheese, freshly grated, adds a nutty, savory crunch when baked. It also helps bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken.

Italian-style breadcrumbs create a golden crust and absorb the garlic butter beautifully.

Unsalted butter helps meld everything together, delivering richness and allowing the garlic to bloom gently.

Eggs serve as the perfect binder, helping the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture stick flawlessly to each piece of chicken.

Salt and pepper season the chicken directly, ensuring flavor all the way through.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the Coating Stations

Set up a breading station with three shallow bowls. In the first, whisk the eggs. In the second, combine Italian breadcrumbs, freshly grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. The third is for dredging the chicken in flour if you want an extra-crisp layer.

Step 2: Season and Dip the Chicken

Lightly season the chicken tenders with salt and pepper. Dip each one first in the flour (if using), then into the egg wash, and finally coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greased foil. Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for even crisping.

Step 4: Drizzle Garlic Butter

Melt the butter in a small saucepan and add minced garlic. Let it simmer just until fragrant, then drizzle or brush this mixture generously over the tenders.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 20 minutes. Flip halfway through for even browning. The tenders should be golden, crisp, and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve Hot

Remove from oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of chicken tenders, you can slice chicken breasts into strips or even use chicken thighs for a juicier result. For a low-carb option, swap the breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or almond flour. Parmesan can be substituted with pecorino or a mix of hard cheeses if you’re feeling adventurous. To make this dairy-free, use a plant-based Parmesan alternative and olive oil instead of butter.

Spice lovers might enjoy adding crushed red pepper flakes or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mix. You can even experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for a more earthy depth. If you want to pan-fry instead of bake, go ahead—just reduce the cooking time and monitor the crust closely.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These chicken tenders are a meal on their own, but they shine even brighter with thoughtful pairings. I love serving them alongside a bright Caesar salad or roasted garlic mashed potatoes. They go well with creamy dips like ranch, aioli, or honey mustard. A tangy marinara can give them a pizza-like twist. For a wholesome family dinner, add steamed green beans or buttery corn on the cob.

If you’re planning a party spread, slice them into bite-sized pieces and serve with toothpicks and a trio of dipping sauces. They even work great cold in wraps or chopped into salads the next day.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months.

To reheat and retain crispness, use an oven or air fryer. Bake at 375°F for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you can—it tends to make the crust soggy.

FAQs

How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and make sure your Parmesan and any seasonings are certified gluten-free. Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend or skip it altogether.

Can I prepare Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken ahead and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. You can also freeze the uncooked tenders and bake them directly from frozen—just add 5-7 more minutes to the baking time.

What’s the best dipping sauce for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Ranch is a classic, but garlic aioli, honey mustard, and even marinara work beautifully. If you’re feeling bold, try a spicy sriracha mayo.

Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a richer flavor, but pre-grated will still work. Avoid powdered Parmesan in a can—it doesn’t melt and can affect the texture.

How do I keep the coating from falling off Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Make sure each layer adheres well: pat the chicken dry, fully coat in egg, and press the breadcrumb mixture onto the surface. Chill for 15 minutes before baking to help the crust stick better.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you’re a fan of these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you’ll definitely want to check out our Cheesy Baked Tennessee Onions. They’re packed with bold flavor and creamy, cheesy richness that makes them an unforgettable side.

You might also fall in love with the savory simplicity of Lemon Chicken Veggie Orzo Stir Fry, a light and zesty dinner idea that balances wonderfully with crispy chicken.

And for a more indulgent spin, try pairing it with Slow Cooker Brisket with Balsamic Gravy for a hearty, comforting weekend dinner.

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