There’s something universally comforting about chicken tenders especially when they’re homemade, crisped to golden perfection, and packed with flavor. These Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders deliver everything you love about a classic comfort meal but with a healthier twist. No deep fryer needed just your oven, a handful of pantry ingredients, and 30 minutes of your time.
Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting friends, or just craving a satisfying protein-packed bite, this recipe is your new go-to. It’s simple, fast, and irresistibly good.
Table of Contents
Ingredients at a Glance
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Chicken tenders | 1.5 pounds |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1 cup |
| Panko breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Garlic powder | 2 teaspoons |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | ½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Fresh parsley (optional) | For garnish |
How to Make Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
1. Prep the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Set Up Breading Stations
Grab two shallow bowls: one for the beaten eggs and one for the breadcrumb mixture. In the second bowl, mix the Parmesan, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Bread the Chicken
Dip each chicken tender into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Let any excess drip off, then press it into the Parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Press firmly to help the coating stick well.
4. Arrange and Bake
Lay the coated tenders in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet. Leave a bit of space between each piece to allow for even cooking. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown, crispy, and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders offer the ultimate combination of crunch and flavor. The Parmesan adds a nutty, salty element that pairs perfectly with the mild chicken, while the panko breadcrumbs ensure that every bite is extra crispy.
Even better? They’re oven-baked instead of fried, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing texture. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to especially since it’s just as easy to double for a crowd.
Best Dipping Sauces
You can serve these crispy tenders with a variety of sauces:
- Classic honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
- Spicy sriracha mayo
- Garlic aioli
- Barbecue sauce
They also go great with a side of ketchup for the little ones or a zesty homemade marinara for something more refined.
What to Serve with Chicken Tenders
These tenders are versatile and pair beautifully with sides like:
- A fresh green salad
- Cucumber Salad for a refreshing crunch
- Roasted sweet potatoes or seasoned fries
- Broccoli Cheddar Soup for a cozy combo
Make it a wrap or sandwich with your favorite bread and toppings, or use leftovers on top of pasta for a comforting twist.
Tips for Extra Crunch
- Use panko: It gives a better crunch than traditional breadcrumbs.
- Add a wire rack: Placing tenders on a rack while baking allows hot air to circulate underneath, preventing sogginess.
- Double coat: For an even crunchier crust, repeat the egg and breading step twice.
Storage & Reheating
Got leftovers? No problem.
To store: Place cooled tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To reheat: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving they’ll lose their crunch.
To freeze: Lay cooled tenders on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes.
Recipe Variations
Want to mix things up?
- Spicy tenders: Add cayenne pepper or crushed red chili flakes to the breading.
- Herbaceous flavor: Mix in dried thyme, oregano, or Italian seasoning.
- Extra cheesy: Sprinkle more Parmesan on top before baking or serve with grated cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes! Just slice the chicken breasts into strips of even thickness and follow the same steps.
Are these gluten-free?
You can make them gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and confirming your Parmesan is certified gluten-free.
Can I pan-fry them instead of baking?
Sure pan-frying in a little oil on medium heat until golden on each side works well too, though baking is less messy.
What’s the best way to get the breading to stick?
Pat the chicken dry before dipping into the egg, and firmly press the coating onto the surface to ensure good adhesion.
Final Thoughts
These Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the kind of no-fuss, always-delicious recipe that you can rely on any night of the week. Quick to make, baked to perfection, and endlessly versatile, they’re guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters.
Perfect on their own, in a sandwich, or next to a bowl of your favorite soup this dish is a certified family favorite. Add it to your weekly meal plan and thank yourself later.