Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a deliciously crispy and flavorful dish that can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even as a crowd-pleasing snack. These tender chicken strips are coated in a savory garlic and parmesan cheese crust, making every bite irresistibly crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner, a party, or simply craving something tasty, these chicken tenders are sure to hit the spot.

Chicken tenders are a classic comfort food, but when you add the rich flavors of garlic and parmesan, you elevate them to a whole new level of deliciousness. The combination of crispy breadcrumbs, savory garlic, and the nutty richness of parmesan cheese makes these tenders a standout dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, they’re simple to prepare and take less than 30 minutes to cook, making them an easy and satisfying meal or snack that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

In this guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, provide helpful tips to achieve crispy perfection, and share some fun variations you can try to customize this recipe to suit your tastes.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

• Crispy and Flavorful: These chicken tenders are coated in a crunchy, golden-brown crust made from breadcrumbs, garlic, and parmesan cheese. The savory garlic and rich parmesan flavors perfectly complement the juicy chicken inside, making each bite irresistible.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of cooking time, you can have a plate of flavorful, crispy chicken tenders ready to serve. It’s perfect for a quick dinner, a busy weeknight meal, or as a satisfying snack.
• Versatile: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders can be enjoyed on their own, dipped in your favorite sauce, or served as part of a larger meal. They pair well with a variety of sides such as mashed potatoes, vegetables, salads, or pasta.
• Kid-Friendly: These tenders are a great option for kids (and adults!) who love crispy, flavorful chicken. The mild flavor and crunchy texture make them a crowd-pleaser for even the pickiest eaters.
• Customizable: You can easily modify the recipe to fit your personal taste. Add extra garlic for a more intense flavor, or experiment with different types of cheese or seasonings to make it your own.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (approximately 4-6 tenders per serving)
• Calories per Serving: Approximately 400-450 calories per serving, depending on portion sizes and ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 25-30g
• Protein: 30-35g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 2-4g

Ingredients

For the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:

• 1 pound chicken tenders (about 8 tenders)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for color)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken Tenders

Begin by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. This helps remove excess moisture and ensures that the coating sticks to the chicken. If the chicken tenders are very thick, you can also cut them into smaller strips for a more even cook.

Next, season the chicken tenders with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you like, such as paprika or cayenne pepper. This will help add flavor directly to the chicken before it’s coated in the garlic parmesan mixture.

2. Prepare the Breading Station

To bread the chicken tenders, set up a breading station with three shallow bowls or plates:

• In the first bowl, add the all-purpose flour.
• In the second bowl, crack the eggs and beat them lightly with a fork.
• In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, minced garlic, oregano, parsley, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix these ingredients well to ensure the garlic and parmesan are evenly distributed throughout the breadcrumbs.

3. Coat the Chicken Tenders

Dip each chicken tender into the flour, making sure it’s fully coated and shaking off any excess. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring that the entire surface of the chicken is coated with egg wash. Finally, dredge the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick.

For extra crispy tenders, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps once more for a double coating. This will create an even thicker crust and ensure the tenders stay crispy throughout the cooking process.

4. Cook the Chicken Tenders

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. You may need to cook the tenders in batches depending on the size of your skillet.

Cook the chicken tenders for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Use tongs to flip the tenders gently to avoid disrupting the breading. The chicken should be cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil.

5. Make the Garlic Parmesan Butter

In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the minced garlic to the butter and cook for 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and soft. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as this can make it bitter.

Once the garlic is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the grated parmesan cheese. This will create a smooth, cheesy, and garlicky sauce to toss the chicken tenders in.

6. Toss the Chicken Tenders in Garlic Parmesan Butter

Place the cooked chicken tenders in a large bowl. Pour the garlic parmesan butter over the tenders and toss gently to coat each one in the savory sauce. The melted parmesan will cling to the tenders, creating a delicious, flavorful coating.

Garnish the chicken tenders with additional parsley or grated parmesan cheese, if desired, for an extra burst of flavor and a pretty presentation.

7. Serve the Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Serve the garlic parmesan chicken tenders immediately, while they’re still hot and crispy. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara, or enjoy them on their own for a satisfying meal. These tenders are perfect served alongside a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or pasta.

Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

• Use Panko Breadcrumbs for Extra Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, but panko will give you a better texture.
• Double Coat the Chicken: For an extra crispy, thick coating, dip the chicken tenders in the egg and breadcrumbs twice. This creates a more substantial crust that will stay crunchy even after being tossed in the garlic parmesan butter.
• Season the Flour: Don’t forget to season the flour with salt, pepper, and other spices before dipping the chicken in it. This ensures that the chicken itself is flavorful and not just the breading.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When cooking the chicken tenders, make sure there’s enough space between each one. Overcrowding the pan will cause the tenders to steam instead of crisping up. If necessary, cook them in batches.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure the chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). This ensures that the chicken is juicy and tender without being overcooked.

Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

• Buffalo Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: For a spicy twist, drizzle your garlic parmesan chicken tenders with buffalo sauce or toss them in a mixture of melted butter and hot sauce before serving. The heat from the buffalo sauce pairs beautifully with the garlic parmesan flavor.
• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Add a burst of citrus to the dish by mixing fresh lemon zest into the garlic parmesan butter. This will give the tenders a refreshing, tangy flavor that complements the savory garlic and cheese.
• Herb Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Add fresh herbs, such as thyme, rosemary, or basil, to the garlic parmesan butter for a fragrant, herb-infused twist. The herbs will add depth and complexity to the dish.
• Air-Fried Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: If you’re looking for a healthier version of this recipe, you can air fry the chicken tenders instead of pan-frying them. Spray the tenders with a light coat of cooking spray and air fry them at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Storage and Shelf Life

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are best enjoyed fresh and crispy, but if you have leftovers, they can be stored and reheated for later.

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The tenders will stay moist but may lose some of their crispiness.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months. Lay the tenders on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag for long-term storage. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• Reheating: To keep the chicken tenders crispy when reheating, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer for an extra crispy finish.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

• French Fries: A classic pairing with chicken tenders, crispy French fries are always a hit. Serve them with a side of ketchup or your favorite dipping sauce.
• Coleslaw: A tangy, crunchy coleslaw adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, cheesy chicken tenders.
• Caesar Salad: A crisp Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing complements the flavors of the garlic parmesan chicken tenders perfectly.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables, such as carrots, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts, make a nutritious and flavorful side dish that pairs wonderfully with these tenders.
• Garlic Bread: For a carb-filled treat, serve your chicken tenders with buttery garlic bread to complement the garlic parmesan flavors.

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Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful dish that everyone will love. With their crispy, golden coating and savory garlic parmesan flavor, these tenders are sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them for dinner, as an appetizer, or as a snack, they’re versatile and delicious enough to suit any occasion.

With helpful tips, variations to suit your taste, and simple storage instructions, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on hand for any time you’re craving a tasty, crowd-pleasing meal. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders—your family and friends are sure to ask for seconds!