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Dinner / Parmesan Chicken Tenders: The Crispiest, Easiest Recipe

Parmesan Chicken Tenders: The Crispiest, Easiest Recipe

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Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Crispy, cheesy, and utterly irresistible, these aren’t your average chicken strips! Forget the drive-through; we’re about to embark on a culinary adventure that will redefine your weeknight dinners and elevate your appetizer game. Imagine sinking your teeth into tender, juicy chicken, encased in a golden-brown crust bursting with the savory goodness of Parmesan cheese. Are you drooling yet?

While the exact origins of breaded chicken cutlets are debated, the concept of coating and frying meat has been around for centuries, evolving across various cultures. What makes these Parmesan Chicken Tenders special is the Italian-inspired twist, adding a depth of flavor that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Parmesan cheese, a staple in Italian cuisine, lends a salty, nutty richness that perfectly complements the chicken.

People adore this dish for so many reasons! First, the taste is simply divine – the combination of crispy breading, savory Parmesan, and tender chicken is a symphony of flavors. Second, the texture is incredibly satisfying, offering a delightful crunch with every bite. Finally, and perhaps most importantly for busy families, these tenders are surprisingly easy and quick to make. They are perfect for a quick weeknight meal, a fun appetizer for parties, or even a satisfying snack. Get ready to experience chicken tenders like never before!

Parmesan Chicken Tenders this Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch thick strips
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (plain or Italian seasoned)
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 tablespoons milk
  • 1/4 cup olive oil (for cooking)
  • Optional: Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
  • Optional: Lemon wedges, for serving

Preparing the Chicken and Parmesan Mixture

  1. First, let’s get our chicken ready. Take your chicken breasts and cut them into strips that are about 1-inch thick. This size is perfect for even cooking and easy dipping. Make sure they are relatively uniform in size so they cook at the same rate.
  2. Now, in a shallow dish, combine the Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together really well. This is our flavorful coating, so make sure all the spices are evenly distributed. I like to use a whisk to break up any clumps of flour or breadcrumbs.
  3. In another shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk. This egg wash will help the Parmesan mixture adhere to the chicken. Don’t skip the milk; it thins the eggs slightly and creates a smoother coating.

Coating the Chicken Tenders

  1. This is where the magic happens! Take each chicken strip and dredge it in the flour mixture first. Make sure to coat all sides of the chicken. The flour helps the egg wash stick better. Shake off any excess flour – we don’t want a thick, pasty coating.
  2. Next, dip the floured chicken strip into the egg wash, ensuring it’s fully coated. Let any excess egg drip off.
  3. Finally, dredge the chicken in the Parmesan cheese mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating adheres well. You want a nice, even layer of Parmesan goodness on all sides. This is what gives the tenders their amazing flavor and crispy texture.
  4. Place the coated chicken tenders on a clean plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Repeat the coating process with the remaining chicken strips.

Cooking the Parmesan Chicken Tenders

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot enough to sizzle when you add the chicken, but not so hot that it burns the Parmesan coating. A good way to test the oil is to drop a small piece of breadcrumb into it; if it sizzles and turns golden brown in a few seconds, the oil is ready.
  2. Carefully place the coated chicken tenders in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy, unevenly cooked tenders. Work in batches if necessary.
  3. Cook the chicken tenders for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
  4. If the Parmesan coating starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat slightly. You want the chicken to cook through without the coating burning.
  5. Once the chicken tenders are cooked through and golden brown, remove them from the skillet and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels. This helps to drain any excess oil and keeps the tenders crispy.
  6. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining chicken tenders, adding more olive oil to the skillet as needed.

Baking Option (Alternative to Pan-Frying)

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  3. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching.
  4. Drizzle the chicken tenders with a little olive oil. This helps them to brown nicely in the oven.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the Parmesan coating is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
  6. Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.

Air Fryer Option (Another Alternative)

  1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray.
  3. Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. You may need to work in batches.
  4. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through and the Parmesan coating is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
  5. Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

  1. Serve the Parmesan chicken tenders immediately while they are still hot and crispy.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley, chopped, for a pop of color and freshness.
  3. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or BBQ sauce.
  4. Lemon wedges are a great addition for squeezing over the chicken tenders for a burst of citrus flavor.
  5. These chicken tenders are also delicious served as part of a meal with sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
  6. They also make a great appetizer for parties or gatherings.

Tips and Variations

  • For extra crispy chicken tenders: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs are larger and coarser, which creates a crispier coating.
  • Add some heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan cheese mixture for a little kick.
  • Use different cheeses: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella, provolone, or Asiago.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour.
  • Add herbs: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, thyme, or rosemary.
  • Make it ahead: You can prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before freezing, and then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

Detailed Notes on Ingredients

  • Chicken Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the best results. They cook evenly and are easy to cut into strips. If you only have bone-in chicken breasts, you’ll need to debone and skin them first.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is always the best option for flavor. Pre-grated Parmesan cheese often contains cellulose, which can prevent it from melting properly and creating a smooth coating.
  • Breadcrumbs: You can use plain or Italian seasoned breadcrumbs, depending on your preference. If you’re using plain breadcrumbs, you may want to add a little extra Italian seasoning to the Parmesan cheese mixture. Panko breadcrumbs will give you the crispiest result.
  • All-Purpose Flour: The flour helps the egg wash adhere to the chicken and creates a slightly thicker coating. You can also use gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version.
  • Garlic Powder and Onion Powder: These add a savory flavor to the Parmesan cheese mixture.
  • Dried Oregano: Oregano is a classic Italian herb that complements the Parmesan cheese perfectly.
  • Salt and Pepper: Season to taste.
  • Eggs and Milk: The egg wash helps the Parmesan cheese mixture adhere to the chicken. The milk thins the eggs slightly and creates a smoother coating.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil is used for cooking the chicken tenders. You can also use vegetable oil or canola oil.
  • Fresh Parsley: Fresh parsley is used for garnish. It adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.

    Parmesan Chicken Tenders

    Conclusion:

    So there you have it! These Parmesan Chicken Tenders are truly a game-changer. They’re quick, easy, and unbelievably delicious – a trifecta that’s hard to beat, especially on a busy weeknight. But beyond the convenience, it’s the flavor that really seals the deal. The crispy, golden-brown coating, infused with the nutty richness of Parmesan and the subtle warmth of garlic, gives way to juicy, tender chicken inside. Trust me, even the pickiest eaters will be reaching for seconds (and maybe even thirds!).

    What makes these tenders a must-try? Well, for starters, they’re incredibly versatile. Need a quick and satisfying lunch? These tenders are perfect. Hosting a casual get-together? Serve them as appetizers with a variety of dipping sauces. Looking for a kid-friendly dinner that everyone will love? Look no further! And the best part is, you probably already have most of the ingredients in your pantry.

    But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to get creative with your serving suggestions. For a classic pairing, serve them with a side of creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans. Or, for a lighter option, try them with a fresh salad and a lemon vinaigrette. They’re also fantastic in wraps or sandwiches, adding a protein-packed punch to your favorite lunchtime staples.

    Here are a few variations to spice things up:

    • Spicy Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery kick.
    • Italian Herb Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Mix in some dried Italian herbs, such as oregano, basil, and thyme, for a more complex flavor profile.
    • Lemon-Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and an extra clove of minced garlic to the egg mixture for a bright and zesty twist.
    • Air Fryer Parmesan Chicken Tenders: For an even healthier option, cook the tenders in an air fryer until golden brown and crispy. You’ll get the same delicious results with less oil.

    Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite variations! The possibilities are endless. Maybe you want to try adding some panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or perhaps you’d like to use a different type of cheese, like Asiago or Romano. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so adaptable to your personal preferences.

    I’m confident that once you try these Parmesan Chicken Tenders, they’ll become a regular part of your meal rotation. They’re just that good! So, what are you waiting for? Head to the kitchen, gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed.

    And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you try any of the variations? What dipping sauces did you use? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below – I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking!

    Parmesan Chicken Tenders: The Crispiest, Easiest Recipe

    Quick and easy crispy Parmesan chicken tenders, perfect for a family-friendly meal. Juicy chicken strips coated in a flavorful Parmesan crust and cooked to golden perfection.

    Save This Recipe
    Prep Time20 minutes
    Cook Time10 minutes
    Total Time30 minutes
    Yield4-6 servings
    👨‍🍳By: Sharey
    📂Category: Dinner
    📊Difficulty: Easy
    🌍Cuisine: American
    🍽️Yield: 4-6 servings
    🥗Dietary: Vegetarian

    Ingredients

    Instructions

    Recipe Notes

    • Baking Option: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet, making sure they are not touching. Drizzle the chicken tenders with a little olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the Parmesan coating is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
    • Air Fryer Option: Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Place coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not touching. Air fry for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through and the Parmesan coating is golden brown. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
    • Extra Crispy: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
    • Add Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Parmesan cheese mixture.
    • Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as mozzarella, provolone, or Asiago.
    • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour.
    • Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as basil, thyme, or rosemary.
    • Make Ahead: Prepare the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
    • Freezing: Freeze the cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months. Let them cool completely before freezing, and then store them in an airtight container or freezer bag. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    → How do I ensure the bread stays moist?
    Use fresh, ripe ingredients and avoid overmixing the batter. Store in an airtight container.
    → Can I substitute ingredients?
    Yes, you can substitute similar ingredients while maintaining the basic ratios for best results.
    → How long does this bread keep?
    Store tightly wrapped at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
    → What if I don't have all the spices?
    You can adjust spices to taste or substitute with similar warming spices.
    → Can I freeze this bread?
    Yes, wrap individual slices and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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