Easy Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying, then this Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan recipe is exactly what you need. It takes the classic comfort of chicken parmesan and transforms it into a lighter, baked version that’s just as flavorful and perfect for any occasion. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan recipe will soon become a beloved staple in your kitchen, delivering a healthier yet indulgent twist on a classic favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Delicious: This recipe uses baking instead of frying for a lower-fat, lighter meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
• Kid-Friendly: Crispy and cheesy bites that children love, making it a great family dinner choice.
• Versatile: Great as a main dish or paired with pasta, salad, or veggies for a complete meal.
• Minimal Ingredients: Simple pantry staples come together for big flavor, so no tricky shopping required.

Ingredients You’ll Need

All you need for this Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan are a few basic ingredients that each play a key role in delivering perfect texture, flavor, and appearance. From tender chicken to crispy coatings and melty cheese, every component matters.

• Chicken tenders: The star of the dish, naturally tender and cook quickly for a juicy bite.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty flavor and helps create that irresistible golden crust.
• Bread crumbs: Provides a crunchy coating, and panko crumbs work best for extra crispiness.
• Italian seasoning: Infuses the tenders with classic herbs like oregano and basil, enhancing their savory profile.
• Eggs: Act as a binder, helping the cheese and breadcrumbs stick perfectly to the chicken.
• Garlic powder: Adds a subtle but essential kick that complements the cheese and herbs.
• Olive oil or cooking spray: Used to lightly coat the tenders for that perfect bake crisp.
• Mozzarella cheese (optional): Sprinkled on top for an extra layer of cheesy goodness and gooey texture.

Variations for Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan

This recipe is wonderfully flexible. Feel free to customize it based on your preferences, ingredient availability, or dietary needs without losing any of its charm and deliciousness.

• Gluten-free option: Swap traditional bread crumbs for gluten-free or almond flour coating for a safe and tasty alternative.
• Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne powder into the breadcrumb mixture for a gentle heat boost.
• Herb twist: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley for a fragrant flavor variation.
• Cheese swap: Try swapping mozzarella with provolone or fontina for a different cheesy texture.
• Low-carb version: Use crushed pork rinds or cheese crisps as a breadcrumb replacement for keto-friendly tenders.

How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by preheating your oven and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly greasing it with oil. Pat your chicken tenders dry to ensure the coating sticks well. Set up a dipping station with beaten eggs in one bowl and a mix of bread crumbs, Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder in another.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb and cheese combo. Press the coating gently to cover the chicken completely for the crispiest results.

Step 3: Arrange and Bake

Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the tenders for extra golden crispness. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for approximately 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Step 4: Add the Cheese Topping

During the last few minutes of baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella over each tender, then return to the oven until the cheese melts and bubbles slightly, about 2-4 minutes.

Step 5: Serve Hot

Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for a couple of minutes before serving. This keeps them juicy and allows the cheese to set perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan

• Dry chicken: Patting your chicken dry before coating helps the breading stick better, creating a crunchier texture.
• Use panko crumbs: These Japanese-style bread crumbs yield extra crispy results compared to regular ones.
• Double coating: For ultra-crispy tenders, dip in egg and breadcrumbs twice.
• Flip halfway: Turning the tenders once during baking promotes even browning on both sides.
• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Give tenders space so the heat circulates properly to avoid sogginess.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan

Garnishes

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the baked tenders for a burst of color and fresh herb flavor. Adding a light drizzle of marinara or balsamic glaze can also elevate the taste beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan with classic marinara pasta, creamy mashed potatoes, or a crisp green salad to balance the cheesy, crispy elements of the dish.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the tenders on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of dipping sauces like garlic aioli, marinara, or honey mustard. For a crowd, turn them into sliders or serve alongside garlic bread for a hearty meal experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftover tenders in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, the flavors stay fresh and the chicken remains tender.

Freezing

Wrap tenders tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or store them in freezer bags for up to 2 months. Freeze before baking to maintain crispness once reheated.

Reheating

For best results, reheat baked chicken tenders Parmesan in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, which can make them soggy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, slice chicken breasts into strips to mimic tenders; just adjust baking time slightly to ensure they’re cooked through without drying out.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use dairy-free cheese alternatives and skip the Parmesan or replace with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Can I prepare the tenders ahead of time and bake later?

Yes, coat the chicken tenders and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake them fresh when ready for the crispiest results.

What dipping sauces pair well with Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan?

Classic marinara, ranch dressing, garlic aioli, honey mustard, or even a spicy sriracha mayo all complement these tenders beautifully.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken tenders should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should be golden brown on the outside and juicy on the inside.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Chicken Tenders Parmesan recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines comfort, flavor, and healthfulness effortlessly. Its crispy exterior and cheesy, savory notes will delight your taste buds without the guilt of frying. Give it a try, and watch it become your go-to dinner for any night of the week!

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