Easy Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan Recipe

If you’re craving a dinner that’s crispy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying, look no further than this easy-to-make Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan. This recipe blends tender chicken tenders with a golden, crunchy coating and a luscious Parmesan topping, all baked to perfection in the oven. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the comfort of classic chicken Parmesan in a quick and hassle-free form that your whole family will adore.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious fast.
• Healthier Twist: Baking instead of frying keeps the tenders light but still crispy and flavorful.
• Family Friendly: Loved by kids and adults alike, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser at the dinner table.
• Versatile Flavor: The blend of Parmesan, herbs, and breadcrumbs creates a savory crust with each bite.
• Minimal Ingredients: Uses simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients for a fuss-free cooking experience.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan is in its simplicity — every ingredient plays a key role in bringing texture, flavor, and color together to create a dish that’s both crunchy and cheesy with a satisfying golden finish.

• Chicken Tenders: Tender, boneless pieces that cook quickly and stay juicy inside the crispy coating.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crispiness and a light crunch.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a sharp, nutty flavor that makes every bite irresistible.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the coating with a mild, savory depth without overpowering the dish.
• Italian Seasoning: A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme to give authentic Italian flair.
• Eggs: Acts as the perfect binder to help the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken.
• Olive Oil Spray: Lightly coating the tenders before baking ensures a golden crisp exterior.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple seasoning to balance the flavors and bring out the best in every ingredient.

Variations for Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to tweak it based on your personal taste, dietary preferences, or what you have on hand. Customizing it is as easy as swapping one ingredient or adding a simple twist.

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle heat.
• Gluten-Free Model: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to keep the recipe accessible for those with sensitivities.
• Herb Variation: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley for a fresher flavor.
• Cheese Swap: Try Pecorino Romano for a sharper, saltier cheese alternative.
• Extra Crispy: Double-dip the chicken tenders in egg and breadcrumbs for a thicker, crunchier crust.

How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan

Step 1: Prepare the Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. This setup helps you quickly and evenly coat each tender.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten eggs, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring every side is fully coated. This double action guarantees a crispy outer crust and flavorful bite.

Step 3: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased wire rack for even air circulation and crisping.

Step 4: Lightly Oil and Bake

Spray the tenders generously with olive oil spray to help them brown beautifully. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through to ensure an even golden finish.

Step 5: Serve Hot and Enjoy

Once baked, let the tenders rest for a couple of minutes before serving to allow the cheese crust to set perfectly. Now dive into that crispy, cheesy goodness!

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan

• Room Temperature Chicken: Let the tenders come to room temperature before breading to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
• Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an extra crunchy texture, panko breadcrumbs are your best friend.
• Don’t Skip the Olive Oil Spray: It’s the secret to achieving that irresistible golden crust without frying.
• Turn Halfway: Flip the tenders halfway through baking for uniform crispiness and color.
• Fresh Parmesan Matters: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese rather than pre-grated for richer flavor and better texture.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan

Garnishes

Brighten the dish with freshly chopped parsley or basil on top to add a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. A light drizzle of marinara sauce or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan can also elevate the presentation and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan with classic Italian sides like spaghetti tossed in marinara, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables. For a lighter touch, serve with garlic steamed broccoli or a tangy cucumber salad to balance the rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve these tenders tucked into slider buns with a smear of marinara and melted mozzarella for chicken Parmesan sliders. You can also slice them and toss over a fresh green salad for a protein-packed lunch option.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining their crispiness when reheated properly.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked breaded tenders on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to one month. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

Reheat the tenders in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 10 to 15 minutes to regain crispiness—avoid microwaving as it will make the crust soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes! Slice chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders for even cooking and follow the same breading and baking steps.

Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese?

Parmesan adds the signature flavor and nuttiness to this recipe, but you can substitute with other hard cheeses if needed, although the taste will change slightly.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely, substitute Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative or nutritional yeast for a similar cheesy flavor while keeping the dish dairy-free.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy inside?

Don’t overbake the tenders and opt for chicken tenders or thin cuts to cook quickly without drying out—monitor the cooking time closely.

What dipping sauces pair well with Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan?

Classic marinara, garlic aioli, ranch dressing, or a simple lemon-herb yogurt sauce are all fantastic options to complement the flavors.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a delicious, comforting, and effortless meal, this Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan recipe is the answer. It blends crispy textures with rich, cheesy flavors in a way that feels special yet simple. Give it a try tonight and watch it become your new favorite go-to for quick, satisfying dinners!

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