Save Crispy, flavorful chicken tenders coated in a savory garlic-Parmesan crust, perfect for a family dinner or appetizer.
This recipe has become a favorite in my household for busy weeknights and entertaining guests.
Ingredients
- Chicken: 1 ½ lbs (680 g) chicken tenders
- Breading: 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup (40 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
- Wet Mixture: 2 large eggs, 2 tbsp (30 ml) milk, 1 tbsp (15 g) Dijon mustard
- Garlic Butter: 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter, melted, 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- For Serving: Lemon wedges (optional), Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare Breading:
- In a shallow bowl combine panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese Italian herbs paprika salt and black pepper.
- Prepare Wet Mixture:
- In a second bowl whisk together the eggs milk and Dijon mustard.
- Make Garlic Butter:
- In a small bowl mix the melted butter and minced garlic.
- Bread Chicken:
- Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Dip each tender first in the egg mixture then in the breadcrumb mixture pressing lightly to adhere.
- Arrange Tenders:
- Arrange breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush each tender with the garlic butter mixture.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18 20 minutes turning halfway through until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
- Serve:
- Serve hot garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Save My family loves gathering around the table to enjoy these chicken tenders fresh from the oven.
Notes
For extra crispiness broil for 1 2 minutes at the end of baking. Substitute panko with regular breadcrumbs if preferred. Delicious with marinara ranch or honey mustard dipping sauces.
Required Tools
Baking sheet Parchment paper or nonstick spray Mixing bowls Whisk Pastry brush (optional) Tongs
Nutritional Information
Calories 375 Total Fat 17 g Carbohydrates 16 g Protein 39 g per serving
Save This garlic Parmesan chicken tender recipe is sure to impress your family and guests with its flavor and texture.
Recipe Help & Answers
- → How do you achieve a crispy crust on chicken tenders?
Using panko breadcrumbs combined with Parmesan cheese helps create a crunchy texture when baked. Coating the tenders evenly and brushing with melted garlic butter enhances crispiness.
- → Can these chicken tenders be made gluten-free?
Yes, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts to maintain the crispy coating while accommodating gluten sensitivities.
- → What is the purpose of the egg and Dijon mustard mixture?
The egg and Dijon mustard wash helps the breadcrumb coating adhere to the chicken and adds subtle flavor that complements the Parmesan and herbs.
- → Is it necessary to use fresh garlic in the butter mixture?
Fresh minced garlic provides a robust, aromatic flavor that blends well with butter. Garlic powder can be used as a substitute but will yield a milder taste.
- → How can I make the chicken tenders extra crispy after baking?
Broiling the tenders for 1–2 minutes at the end of baking crisps the coating further. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.