Oh my goodness, if there’s one thing I’m absolutely obsessed with, it has to be these **Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan**! I remember the first time I whipped these up for a cozy family gathering. The moment my niece took her first bite, her eyes lit up like she’d just found a treasure map! Just like that, I was the hero of dinner. These chicken tenders are not just a meal; they’re a delicious memory waiting to happen.
What I love about this recipe is its perfect balance of crispy and cheesy goodness without the guilt that often accompanies fried food. Plus, they are super easy to make! So whether you’re feeding a crowd, planning for game night, or just craving something crunchy and tasty, these tenders are your go-to. Let’s dive into how we make this delectable dish and turn your kitchen into the most delicious spot in the house!
What’s in Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan?
Chicken Breast Tenders: These are the stars of the show! They cook quickly and stay juicy, making them perfect for baking. You could also use chicken breasts and slice them into strips if you can’t find tenders.
Breadcrumbs: I always use panko breadcrumbs for this recipe because they provide an extra crunch that just can’t be beat! Regular breadcrumbs work too, but why skimp on that crispy goodness?
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This adds a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with chicken. It melts beautifully in the oven, enhancing each bite. I always recommend using fresh-grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
Garlic Powder: A must for a kick of savory goodness! It adds depth without any chopping involved, which is always a win in my book.
Onion Powder: This brings a lovely aromatic flavor without the tears. Yes, please!
Smoked Paprika: I just love the smoky depth it brings to the dish! It’s a game-changer that adds a subtle warmth and unique flavor.
Dried Parsley: A nice sprinkle for color and mild herb flavor. Feel free to use fresh if you have some on hand!
Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning! You can adjust these according to your taste buds.
Eggs: These are the binding agents, helping the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken beautifully.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle not only helps with browning but also adds healthy fats to the dish.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For garnish! It adds a pop of color and freshness.
Is Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan Good for You?
Absolutely! Chicken breast is a fantastic source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. Plus, it keeps you feeling full longer, preventing those pesky snack cravings. Just a reminder though, although these tenders are baked and not fried, moderation is key, especially with ingredients like Parmesan and breadcrumbs.
One thing to note is that if you’re watching your sodium intake, you might want to go easy on the salt and cheese. But overall, these tenders are a healthier alternative to their greasy cousins, making them a great addition to your family’s meal rotations.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb chicken breast tenders
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
**Serves:** 4 (or more if you want to share… but why would you want to?)
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan?
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray. Trust me, this is key for a mess-free cleanup!
2. In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the dry ingredients are evenly blended.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and olive oil until well combined. This is where the magic begins!
4. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it’s fully coated, then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture. Press those breadcrumbs onto the chicken – it can never be too crunchy!
5. Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, repeating the process with all the tenders.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through (you should aim for an internal temperature of 165°F or 75°C).
7. For those who adore extra crispiness, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a CLOSE eye to avoid them turning into little charcoal nuggets.
8. Once cooked, let them cool slightly, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
9. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces and watch them disappear like magic!
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Tenders!
– For an extra flavor boost, try adding some dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture!
– Don’t be afraid to experiment with different dips – ranch, BBQ, or even a sweet chili sauce are all great choices!
– If you’re feeding a crowd, double the recipe! Trust me, with these tenders on the table, no one will leave hungry!
I hope you give these **Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Garlic Parmesan** a try! They’re sure to bring smiles and happy bellies. Don’t forget to share your experience with me – I love hearing about your cooking adventures! Happy cooking!
