If you are craving a snack or meal that’s both irresistibly crunchy and bursting with flavor, this Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe will become an instant favorite in your kitchen. Imagine golden, crispy tenders with a perfect Parmesan crust that’s tender on the inside and satisfyingly crunchy on the outside, all made effortlessly in your oven. Whether you’re feeding a family, entertaining friends, or simply looking for a healthier twist on traditional fried chicken tenders, this recipe delivers big on taste without the extra oil. Get ready to fall in love with these delectable chicken tenders that combine the rich nuttiness of Parmesan with aromatic spices for a truly mouthwatering bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe is straightforward but crucial to building those wonderful layers of flavor and texture. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the crispy panko that gives crunch to the sharp, salty Parmesan cheese that adds savory depth. The spices add warmth and subtle heat, while the egg and milk help create that perfect coating that bakes up beautifully in the oven.
- 1½ pounds chicken tenders: Using chicken tenders or thin strips ensures quick, even cooking and tender bites every time.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Panko is key for the extra crispy, light crust that clings so well to the chicken.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: This adds a delicious nutty flavor and helps create a golden crust.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Garlic powder infuses subtle savory notes, balancing the cheese and spices.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Paprika adds a gentle smoky warmth and vibrant color to the coating.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Precisely seasons the chicken and enhances all the other flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Freshly cracked pepper gives a mild kick to cut through the richness.
- 2 large eggs: Whisked eggs act as a sticky base to help the breadcrumb mixture cling perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons milk: Thins the egg mixture so it coats the chicken smoothly without clumping.
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray: A light spritz ensures extra crispiness without added grease.
How to Make Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to a roaring 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper and giving it a light spray of oil. This not only prevents sticking but helps the tenders get crisp on every side without frying in extra oil.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This dry mixture is everything—bringing crunch, flavor, and color all in one harmonious blend. Make sure to mix it well so the seasoning is distributed evenly.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until smooth. This simple egg wash creates the perfect adhesive layer to help the Parmesan breadcrumb coating stick snugly to the chicken tenders for maximum crunch.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender first into the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated. Don’t be shy—make sure every inch is covered for that ultimate crispiness!
Step 5: Arrange for Baking
Place your coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave a little space between each piece so the hot air can circulate and crisp up every side beautifully.
Step 6: Add Olive Oil Spray
Just before popping them into the oven, give the tops of the tenders a gentle spray with olive oil spray or cooking spray. This step is the secret to achieving a golden crust without deep frying.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through to guarantee even cooking and crispiness. The tenders are done when they’re golden, crunchy, and the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C). Time to get excited because they will smell amazing!
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your freshly baked chicken tenders immediately while they’re warm and crunchy, perfect for dipping and sharing.
How to Serve Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil adds a touch of freshness and a pop of color that brightens up the crunchy tenders. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top can also elevate the flavors by adding a zesty, tangy contrast to the rich Parmesan coating.
Side Dishes
These Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with crisp garden salads, creamy mashed potatoes, or even a light pasta salad. Roasted vegetables or sweet potato fries also make fantastic complements, balancing out the savory richness with sweetness and texture.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these tenders as sliders with mini buns, fresh lettuce, and a tangy aioli. You could also turn them into a hearty wrap with greens, tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch or Caesar dressing. Getting creative with dips—think honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or classic marinara—makes every bite exciting and unique.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and who usually does?), place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Keep in mind these tenders are best enjoyed fresh but can still be delicious when reheated properly.
Freezing
You can freeze fully cooked tenders by laying them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to two months without losing that lovely crispness once reheated.
Reheating
To bring back their crunchy glory, reheat the tenders in a preheated oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. Avoid the microwave as it tends to make them soggy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into thin strips similar in size to tenders to ensure they cook quickly and evenly with a crispy crust.
Is panko necessary, or can I use regular breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs are recommended because they provide a lighter, crispier texture. Regular breadcrumbs tend to be denser and won’t achieve the same crunch.
Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Parmesan?
Parmesan really shines here due to its salty, nutty flavor, but you could experiment with Asiago or Pecorino for a similar effect. Just keep the quantity the same to maintain the crust texture.
How do I make these tenders gluten-free?
Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free panko or crushed gluten-free cereal. Make sure the other ingredients like seasoning don’t contain hidden gluten.
What dipping sauces go best with this recipe?
Classic options like honey mustard, ranch, or marinara are fantastic, but don’t be afraid to try spicy aioli, barbecue sauce, or even a garlic yogurt dip to suit your taste buds.
Final Thoughts
I hope this Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine. It’s a beautifully simple way to enjoy tender chicken with a crispy, flavorful crust that feels indulgent without the guilt of frying. Perfect for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even a cozy solo dinner, these tenders will quickly become one of your go-to recipes. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
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Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe offers a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders while delivering a crunchy, flavorful coating. Coated with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and aromatic spices, these tenders bake to golden perfection in just 35 minutes. Perfect for a family dinner or a tasty snack, they’re easy to prepare and pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1½ pounds chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
Coating Mixture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
Others
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to evenly distribute the spices and cheese.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully blended, creating a smooth egg wash for coating the chicken.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the egg mixture, ensuring it is fully coated, then dredge it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture to completely cover the chicken strips.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to allow proper air circulation and even baking.
- Apply Olive Oil Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the coated chicken tenders with olive oil spray. This helps achieve a crispy, golden texture when baked.
- Bake: Bake the tenders in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. Bake until they are golden brown, crispy, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Serve: Serve the crispy Parmesan chicken tenders hot, alongside your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious meal or snack.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs rather than regular breadcrumbs.
- If you prefer spicier tenders, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Ensure chicken tenders reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer.
- You can substitute chicken breasts cut into strips if chicken tenders are unavailable.
- Olive oil spray is key to achieving the crispy texture without deep-frying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
