Golden, Crunchy, and Irresistible
If you’re craving something crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with cheesy flavor, Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are exactly what you need. Perfect for family dinners, game-day snacks, or a quick weeknight meal, these chicken tenders are simple to make and guaranteed to disappear fast.
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Ingredients (Serves 4)
1 lb (450 g) chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
2–3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter (for baking)
Optional garnish: fresh parsley, chopped
Optional dipping sauces: honey mustard, ranch, marinara
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Instructions
1. Preheat & Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray for easy cleanup.
2. Set Up Breading Station
Prepare three bowls for breading:
Bowl 1: Flour, seasoned with a pinch of salt and pepper
Bowl 2: Eggs beaten with milk
Bowl 3: Panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
3. Coat the Chicken
1. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Press into the Parmesan-panko mixture until evenly coated.
4. Cook the Tenders
Baking method (healthier):
Arrange tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
Drizzle lightly with olive oil or brush with melted butter.
Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Frying method (classic crispy):
Heat ¼ inch of oil in a skillet over medium heat.
Fry chicken tenders 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
Drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
5. Serve
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a touch of color and extra flavor. Pair with fries, roasted vegetables, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
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Tips for Perfectly Crispy Tenders
Double-dredge: For an extra crunchy coating, dip the tenders in egg and breadcrumbs a second time.
Panko breadcrumbs: These give a light, crispy texture that regular breadcrumbs can’t match.
Rest before baking: Letting coated tenders rest for 5–10 minutes helps the breading stick better.
Air fryer option: Bake in an air fryer at 400°F for 10–12 minutes for an even crispier, low-oil version.
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These Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are cheesy, golden, and perfectly seasoned—a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether baked or fried, they hit all the right notes: crunchy, juicy, and downright delicious.
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders:
