Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the crispy, flavorful experience of biting into a perfectly cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tender. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with the irresistible combination of garlic and parmesan, this dish has become a favorite among many who crave both comfort and flavor. Whether you’re preparing a simple weeknight meal or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a surefire hit.

In this in-depth guide, we will take you through every step of creating these delicious chicken tenders, starting from the basics of choosing the best ingredients to crafting an unforgettable garlic parmesan sauce. Along the way, we’ll cover variations, cooking methods, and serving suggestions, making this a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Chicken tenders are a timeless comfort food, loved by people of all ages. What makes this version stand out is the Garlic Parmesan flavor profile. Here’s why you should give them a try:

• Crispy and Tender: With a light, crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior, these chicken tenders strike the perfect balance.
• Bold, Savory Flavor: The garlic adds a rich depth, while the parmesan delivers that sharp, savory kick. Together, they create an unforgettable flavor combination that elevates the simple chicken tender to a new level.
• Versatile: These tenders are perfect for dipping in sauces, pairing with side dishes, or serving as a stand-alone snack or appetizer.
• Easy to Make: Though they might seem like a gourmet dish, garlic parmesan chicken tenders are easy to prepare with a few basic ingredients. This makes them a great option for both beginners and seasoned cooks.

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

Start by preparing your chicken tenders. If using chicken breasts instead of pre-cut tenders, slice the chicken into strips about 1-inch thick.

1. Pat the Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken tenders dry. This ensures that the breading will stick better.
2. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken tenders with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes for the wet and dry ingredients:

1. Flour Mixture: In the first dish, add flour and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be the first coating the chicken touches.
2. Egg Wash: In the second dish, whisk together the eggs. If you want an extra crispy coating, you can add a tablespoon of water or milk to thin out the egg wash.
3. Breadcrumb Mixture: In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Coat with Flour: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, coating it fully.
3. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure a good coating.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Tenders

You can either bake or fry the chicken tenders, depending on your preference.

Option 1: Frying the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.
2. Fry the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Drain the Chicken: Once the tenders are crispy and golden, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Option 2: Baking the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray.
3. Bake the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Add Parmesan: Lower the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until it melts into the butter, creating a creamy sauce.
3. Finish with Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and stir to combine. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a splash of milk or chicken broth.

Step 6: Coat the Chicken Tenders with Sauce

1. Toss the Chicken: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, place them in a large bowl and pour the garlic parmesan sauce over them. Toss gently to coat the tenders evenly in the sauce.
2. Garnish: If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Techniques for Perfect Chicken Tenders

• Uniform Bread Crumbs: Ensure your breadcrumbs are uniform in size for an even coating. Panko breadcrumbs are typically larger and crispier than regular breadcrumbs, but if you prefer a finer texture, regular breadcrumbs work well.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Whether you’re frying or baking, overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness. Fry or bake the chicken in batches if necessary.
• Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the tenders moist and tender inside.

Flavor Enhancements and Variations

• Spicy Garlic Parmesan: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic parmesan sauce or sprinkle cayenne pepper on the breading for a spicy kick.
• Herbed Parmesan: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil in the breadcrumb mixture to add a more complex flavor.
• Cheesy Variation: Mix a bit of mozzarella or cheddar cheese with the parmesan for an extra cheesy flavor.
• Crispier Tenders: For even crispier chicken, double-coat the tenders by dipping them in the egg wash and breadcrumbs twice.

Serving Ideas

• With Dipping Sauces: Serve with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, blue cheese dressing, or even sweet chili sauce.
• As a Salad Topping: Slice the tenders and place them on top of a fresh caesar salad or arugula salad.
• With Vegetables: Serve alongside roasted broccoli, sweet potato fries, or a vegetable medley for a complete meal.

Meal Prep and Storing Tips

• Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To keep the tenders crispy, reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can heat them in a skillet with a little oil for a crispier result.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked tenders. Lay them out on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Breading Doesn’t Stick: If the breading doesn’t stick, make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly and allow the chicken to rest after breading.
• Chicken Is Overcooked: Ensure that your cooking time is accurate and use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delectable dish that balances crispy, juicy chicken with rich, garlicky parmesan flavor. Whether you choose to bake or fry them, they’re sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. With a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home.

Extra Tips for Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

To ensure your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are consistently delicious every time, here are a few more tips and tricks to perfect your technique:

A. Chicken Quality Matters

While the recipe works with any type of boneless, skinless chicken, the quality of your chicken will significantly affect the overall flavor and texture of the dish.

• Fresh Chicken: Always opt for fresh chicken tenders or chicken breast (cut into tenders) for the juiciest results. Frozen tenders can work, but fresh tenders tend to stay more moist.
• Free-Range or Organic: If possible, consider using free-range or organic chicken. These tend to have better flavor, and they also support ethical farming practices.

B. Breading Consistency

The breading process is critical to achieving a crispy, golden exterior. Here are a couple of techniques to help:

• Press the Coating: After dipping the chicken into the breadcrumbs, press it gently with your hands. This helps the coating adhere better, resulting in a crispier crust once cooked.
• Double Coat: For extra crunch, you can double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg wash and breadcrumbs twice. First coat the chicken in breadcrumbs, then dip it again in egg wash, followed by another coating of breadcrumbs.

C. Managing the Heat

Whether you’re baking or frying, the temperature you use for cooking is crucial:

• For Frying: Maintain an oil temperature between 350°F (175°C) and 375°F (190°C). If your oil is too hot, the chicken may burn before the inside is fully cooked. If the oil is too cold, the breading will absorb excess oil, making the tenders greasy instead of crispy.
• For Baking: Bake the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) to get a nice, golden crust without drying them out. If your tenders are thicker, you can cook them a bit longer or lower the temperature slightly to ensure they cook through evenly.

Popular Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

While the classic Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are delicious as is, you can switch things up by adding your own personal twist. Here are a few ideas to make your tenders even more special:

A. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Bacon

Who doesn’t love bacon? Adding crumbled bacon to your garlic parmesan sauce or to the breading mixture gives these tenders an extra layer of smokiness and richness.

• How to Add Bacon: Simply cook 4-5 strips of bacon until crispy, then crumble them and mix with the parmesan in the breadcrumb coating. Alternatively, you can sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the tenders just before serving for a garnish.

B. Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

If you like a little heat with your garlic parmesan flavors, consider adding some spice.

• Spicy Garlic Sauce: Stir crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce into the garlic parmesan sauce to give it a spicy kick. You can also add jalapeños or serrano peppers to the breading mixture for extra flavor.
• Chili Powder: Add a teaspoon of chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a mild smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic and parmesan.

C. Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Lemon and garlic are a match made in heaven. Adding fresh lemon zest and juice to your garlic parmesan sauce will brighten the dish and give it a fresh, tangy twist.

• Lemon Zest: For a more intense lemon flavor, add lemon zest to the breadcrumb mixture or directly into the garlic parmesan sauce.
• Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice in the sauce just before serving will balance the richness of the butter and parmesan with a refreshing citrus note.

D. Herb-Infused Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Fresh herbs can elevate the dish further. Adding rosemary, thyme, basil, or oregano to either the breadcrumb mixture or the garlic parmesan sauce creates a more aromatic, herbaceous flavor.

• Herbs in the Breading: Chop fresh herbs and mix them into the breadcrumbs for added flavor.
• Herb-Infused Sauce: Add a teaspoon of herb-infused olive oil or sauté fresh herbs with the garlic in the butter for an extra layer of flavor.

Creative Ways to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

One of the best things about garlic parmesan chicken tenders is their versatility. They can be served in a variety of ways, allowing you to tailor them to any occasion. Here are some creative serving suggestions to take your meal to the next level:

A. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders in Wraps or Sandwiches

These tenders can easily be turned into a sandwich or wrap for a handheld version of the dish.

• Wraps: Place the chicken tenders in a flour tortilla with some shredded lettuce, tomato slices, and a drizzle of ranch dressing or garlic aioli. For added crunch, include some shredded cabbage or avocado.
• Sandwiches: Serve the tenders on a crusty baguette, ciabatta roll, or toasted brioche bun. Add pickles or coleslaw for contrast, or a dollop of spicy mayo for extra zing.

B. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauces

No chicken tender is complete without a variety of dipping sauces. Here are a few ideas to pair with your garlic parmesan tenders:

• Ranch Dressing: A creamy, cool dip that complements the rich, savory garlic parmesan flavor.
• Blue Cheese Dressing: Perfect for those who love the bold flavor of blue cheese.
• Honey Mustard: A slightly sweet and tangy sauce that pairs wonderfully with the crispy chicken.
• Buffalo Sauce: For a spicy contrast, serve with some classic buffalo sauce on the side.

C. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders on a Salad

For a lighter, healthier option, serve the garlic parmesan chicken tenders on top of a fresh, crisp salad.

• Caesar Salad: Slice the tenders and serve them on a Caesar salad with crunchy croutons, extra parmesan, and a tangy Caesar dressing.
• Arugula Salad: Top a bed of arugula with the chicken tenders, and add some cherry tomatoes, avocado, and a light vinaigrette dressing.

D. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Pasta

Chicken tenders go wonderfully with a variety of pasta dishes. Consider serving them alongside pasta for a complete meal.

• Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce: Pair the tenders with simple spaghetti or linguine tossed in a garlic butter sauce, then top with a generous sprinkling of parmesan and fresh parsley.
• Mac and Cheese: For a comforting combo, serve the chicken tenders with creamy macaroni and cheese.

Your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe is now ready to impress! This versatile dish can be enjoyed in various ways, whether served as a main dish, appetizer, or a delightful addition to salads or wraps. By combining simple ingredients with easy cooking techniques, you’ve created a dish that’s flavorful, crispy, and utterly satisfying.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting a gathering, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders will always hit the mark. Experiment with the different variations and toppings, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser every time!

Yield: 4

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

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There’s nothing quite like the crispy, flavorful experience of biting into a perfectly cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tender. Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and bursting with the irresistible combination of garlic and parmesan, this dish has become a favorite among many who crave both comfort and flavor. Whether you're preparing a simple weeknight meal or looking to impress guests at a dinner party, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a surefire hit.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Total Time 40 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken Tenders:
• Chicken Tenders (1 lb): The star of the dish, chicken tenders are the more tender and smaller parts of the chicken breast. If you can't find chicken tenders, you can also use chicken breast cut into strips. Choose boneless, skinless chicken for convenience and tenderness.
• All-Purpose Flour (1 cup): This creates the base for the breading, giving the chicken a light, crispy exterior. You can use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
• Eggs (2 large): Eggs help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken, forming a crunchy coating when fried or baked.
• Panko Breadcrumbs (1 cup): These provide an extra-crunchy texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work, though panko gives the crispiest result.
• Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated): Freshly grated parmesan is best for the richest flavor. This goes into both the breading mixture and the garlic butter sauce.
• Seasonings:
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon): Enhances the garlic flavor in the breading.
• Onion Powder (½ teaspoon): Adds depth to the flavor.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon): Provides a savory, herbaceous note.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning the chicken tenders.
• For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
• Butter (¼ cup): Butter is the key to the garlic parmesan sauce, adding richness and a smooth texture.
• Fresh Garlic (4-5 cloves, minced): Fresh garlic delivers a more robust, aromatic flavor compared to garlic powder.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (½ cup): A bit more parmesan in the sauce makes it creamy and cheesy.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A handful of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to balance the richness of the sauce.
• Lemon Juice (½ tablespoon): A small splash of lemon juice brightens the dish and helps cut through the richness of the butter and parmesan.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Tenders

Start by preparing your chicken tenders. If using chicken breasts instead of pre-cut tenders, slice the chicken into strips about 1-inch thick.

1. Pat the Chicken Dry: Use paper towels to pat the chicken tenders dry. This ensures that the breading will stick better.
2. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken tenders with a pinch of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can let the chicken rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to absorb.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station

Set up your breading station with three shallow dishes for the wet and dry ingredients:

1. Flour Mixture: In the first dish, add flour and a pinch of salt and pepper. This will be the first coating the chicken touches.
2. Egg Wash: In the second dish, whisk together the eggs. If you want an extra crispy coating, you can add a tablespoon of water or milk to thin out the egg wash.
3. Breadcrumb Mixture: In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried oregano.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Coat with Flour: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, making sure to coat it completely. Shake off any excess flour.
2. Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg wash, coating it fully.
3. Coat with Breadcrumbs: Finally, coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to ensure a good coating.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken Tenders

You can either bake or fry the chicken tenders, depending on your preference.

Option 1: Frying the Chicken

1. Heat Oil: Heat about 1/4 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. You want the oil to be hot but not smoking.
2. Fry the Chicken: Add the chicken tenders to the hot oil, being careful not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches if necessary. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. Drain the Chicken: Once the tenders are crispy and golden, remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Option 2: Baking the Chicken

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare a Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray with cooking spray.
3. Bake the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 5: Prepare the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. Melt Butter: In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Add Parmesan: Lower the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until it melts into the butter, creating a creamy sauce.
3. Finish with Lemon: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and stir to combine. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it with a splash of milk or chicken broth.

Step 6: Coat the Chicken Tenders with Sauce

1. Toss the Chicken: Once the chicken tenders are cooked, place them in a large bowl and pour the garlic parmesan sauce over them. Toss gently to coat the tenders evenly in the sauce.
2. Garnish: If desired, garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a finishing touch.

Notes

Ingredient Substitutions
Chicken Tenders: If you can’t find pre-cut chicken tenders, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips. For a leaner option, use ground chicken (formed into tenders), or substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
Breadcrumbs: If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed crackers. Panko gives a crunchier texture, but regular breadcrumbs will still give a nice coating.
Parmesan: Freshly grated Parmesan works best for this recipe, as it has a more intense flavor. You can also use Pecorino Romano for a sharper, more tangy taste, or even try a blend of both cheeses.
Butter: If you're looking to reduce fat content, you can swap butter with olive oil for the garlic sauce, though the richness of butter adds a signature flavor.

Cooking Methods:
Frying: For the crispiest result, frying the chicken tenders in a deep skillet with a bit of oil is the best option. The oil should be hot but not smoking (around 350°F/175°C). Fry the tenders in batches, so they don’t overcrowd the pan, which can cause sogginess.
Baking: Baking is a healthier option and can still achieve a crispy texture if you use panko breadcrumbs and bake at 400°F (200°C). Flip the tenders halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Flavor Adjustments:
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture or the garlic butter sauce for a spicy kick.
Lemon: For a fresh twist, lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice in the sauce can add brightness that complements the rich parmesan flavor.
Bacon Lovers: For added flavor, sprinkle crumbled bacon on top of the chicken tenders before serving or mix into the breadcrumb coating.

Serving Suggestions:
With Dipping Sauces: Serve with ranch, blue cheese, or a honey mustard dipping sauce. You can also pair with a spicy buffalo sauce for added flavor contrast.
On a Salad: Slice the tenders and add them to a Caesar salad or an arugula salad for a quick, delicious meal.
Sandwiches or Wraps: Serve the tenders on a bun or in a wrap with fresh veggies, a bit of garlic aioli, or spicy mayo for a handheld meal.

Make-Ahead and Storing:
Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze cooked chicken tenders. After they’ve cooled, place them in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes, or use a skillet to heat them over medium heat with a little oil to maintain their crispiness.

Meal Prep Tips:
Batch Cooking: You can bread and freeze the raw tenders before cooking them. When ready to cook, just bake or fry them directly from the freezer, adjusting the cooking time as needed.
Serving with Sides: Pair with sides like sweet potato fries, roasted vegetables, or a creamy mashed potato for a filling meal.
Salads or Pasta: Serve over a bed of pasta with garlic butter sauce, or on a green salad for a light, refreshing option.

Gluten-Free Option:
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this recipe gluten-free. You can also coat the chicken with almond flour or rice flour if you prefer a low-carb alternative.

Kid-Friendly:
These tenders are a great option for kids, as they are both fun to eat and flavorful without being too spicy. To make them even more kid-friendly, offer different dips like ketchup, BBQ sauce, or ranch for dipping.

Crispier Tenders:
For extra crispy chicken tenders, double-coat the chicken by dipping it in the egg wash and breadcrumbs twice. Alternatively, consider air frying the tenders for a healthier, super-crispy option.