Get ready to transform your weeknight dinner with the most mouthwatering, crispy-yet-tender chicken recipe that will have your family begging for seconds! These Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are not just another boring chicken dish – they're a flavor explosion that combines the irresistible crunch of perfectly seasoned breadcrumbs with the rich, savory notes of garlic and Parmesan. Imagine golden-brown tenders that are incredibly crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with so much flavor that they'll become an instant family favorite. Whether you're a busy parent looking for a quick meal or a home cook wanting to impress, this recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner solution!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C) and line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasonings.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until well blended, creating a smooth liquid for coating the chicken tenders.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the coating adhere better.
- Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten eggs, ensuring complete coverage, then roll in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating stick firmly.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each tender to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, turning once halfway through cooking, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove from oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, which helps maintain moisture.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or additional grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips
- Pat the chicken tenders completely dry before coating to ensure maximum crispiness and better breading adhesion.
- For extra crispy results, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of traditional breadcrumbs – they create an even more crunchy exterior.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- To prevent soggy bottoms, place the chicken tenders on a wire rack over the baking sheet, allowing air to circulate and crisp up all sides.
- For added flavor, try experimenting with different herbs or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture for a subtle kick.
- Prep tip: You can prepare the breaded chicken tenders ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before baking, making meal prep a breeze.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 135mg
