Are you ready to make a dish that everyone will love? These Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are not just tasty; they are easy to whip up! With a crispy coating and rich flavors, they’ll be a hit at your dinner table or game night. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a go-to. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this flavorful delight!
Ingredients
When making Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you need a few key items. Here’s what you should gather:
– 1 lb chicken breast tenders
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 teaspoons garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Each ingredient plays a role in building flavor and texture. The chicken breast tenders offer a juicy base. Panko breadcrumbs give a light, crispy coating that is hard to beat. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, savory note that pairs perfectly with garlic.
Using garlic powder and onion powder brings a strong aroma and taste. The dried Italian herbs add depth and freshness to the dish. Salt and black pepper enhance all the flavors.
The eggs help bind the coating, ensuring it sticks well to the chicken. Olive oil adds moisture and a hint of fruitiness. Finally, fresh parsley not only brightens the dish but also adds a pop of color when you serve it.
For the full recipe, check out the instructions above.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy.
3. In a large bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything blends well.
4. In another bowl, whisk the eggs and add the olive oil. Mix until smooth.
Coating the Chicken
1. Take each chicken tender and dip it into the egg mixture. Make sure it gets fully coated.
2. Next, roll the tender in the breadcrumb mix. Press down gently so the crumbs stick well.
Baking the Chicken
1. Place the coated chicken tenders on the lined baking sheet. Leave some space between them.
2. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes. Check that the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden. Flip them halfway for even browning.
For the full recipe, you can refer back to the ingredients and steps above. Get ready to enjoy a tasty dish!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Perfect Crunch
To get that perfect crunch, always use Panko breadcrumbs. Panko is lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs. It makes your chicken tenders extra crispy. When coating the tenders, dip them in the egg mixture first. This step helps the breadcrumbs stick better. Press the chicken gently into the breadcrumbs. Make sure every inch is covered well.
Flavor Enhancements
You can add spices to the breadcrumb mix for more flavor. Try paprika or cayenne for some heat. A pinch of garlic powder can also enhance the taste. Fresh herbs are great, but dried herbs work too. If you use fresh herbs, chop them finely. This way, they mix well with the breadcrumbs. Dried herbs are easy to use and still give great flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your chicken tenders with dips like marinara or ranch. These dips add fun flavors to each bite. For a gourmet look, serve the tenders on a nice platter. You can sprinkle extra Parmesan on top for a fancy touch. Add some chopped parsley for a pop of color. This makes your dish look even more appetizing. For the full recipe, check the details above!
Variations
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
You can make these tenders spicy! Just add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix. Start with a half teaspoon. Taste the mixture, then adjust to your heat level. This gives your tenders a nice kick. It’s a fun way to spice up your meal.
Herb Variations
Using different herbs can change the flavor. Try rosemary or thyme instead of Italian herbs. These herbs bring a fresh taste to the chicken. Just add a teaspoon of your chosen herb to the breadcrumb mixture. You’ll enjoy a new twist on the classic recipe.
Gluten-Free Option
If you need a gluten-free option, swap the traditional breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead. They work just as well for a crispy texture. You can find them in most grocery stores. This way, everyone can enjoy your tasty chicken tenders!
For the full recipe, check out the Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders section!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your chicken tenders fresh, place them in an airtight container. Make sure they cool down before sealing. Store the container in the fridge. They stay good for about 3 days. If you want to enjoy them later, consider freezing.
Reheating Tips
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, use the oven for best results. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes. This keeps the outside crispy and the inside juicy. You can also use an air fryer. It gives a nice crunch in less time.
Freezing for Later
For long-term storage, freeze the chicken tenders. First, let them cool completely. Then, wrap each tender in plastic wrap. Place them in a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can before sealing. They can stay frozen for up to 3 months. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight before reheating. Enjoying homemade chicken tenders later is easy with this method! For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time. Bake them for 30 to 35 minutes at 400°F (200°C). Check that they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are safe to eat.
How long does it take to bake chicken tenders?
Baking chicken tenders usually takes 20 to 25 minutes. The key is to check for a crispy, golden coating. For best results, flip them halfway through cooking. This helps achieve even browning.
What to do if I don’t have Parmesan cheese?
If you lack Parmesan cheese, no worries! You can use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano instead. Both will give a nice, salty flavor. You can also use a blend of nutritional yeast and breadcrumbs for a dairy-free option.
This post covered how to make delicious chicken tenders. We explored the ingredients, from tender chicken to tasty spices. The step-by-step guide showed easy preparation, coating, and baking tips. You learned how to achieve the perfect crunch with Panko breadcrumbs. Plus, I shared variations, storage tips, and a FAQs section to help you succeed.
Now, you can enjoy crispy, flavorful chicken tenders anytime. Enjoy your cooking and impress everyone with your tasty meal!
