Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are crispy, flavorful, and baked to golden perfection. Coated in garlic, Parmesan, and Panko, they make a delicious family-friendly meal or snack served with your favorite dipping sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy and Flavorful – A crunchy Panko and Parmesan coating.
• Baked, Not Fried – Healthier without sacrificing flavor.
• Quick and Easy – Ready in just 25 minutes.
• Perfect for Dipping – Serve with your favorite sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders:

• Chicken tenders – 1¼ pounds, boneless and skinless.
• White flour – ½ cup.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon.
• Black pepper – ¼ teaspoon.
• Olive oil or melted butter – 6 tablespoons.
• Minced garlic – 3 teaspoons.
• Dried basil – 1 teaspoon.
• Paprika – ¼ teaspoon.
• Panko breadcrumbs – 1 cup.
• Parmesan cheese – ⅔ cup, freshly grated.

For Serving:

• Famous fry sauce – Or your favorite dipping sauce.

Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. Trim any fat from the chicken tenders.

Step 2: Set Up Breading Stations

1. Arrange three bowls:
   • Bowl 1: Combine flour, salt, and pepper.
   • Bowl 2: Mix olive oil (or melted butter) with minced garlic.
   • Bowl 3: Stir together Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and paprika.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken

1. Dip each chicken tender first into the flour mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
2. Next, dip into the garlic oil mixture.
3. Finally, coat thoroughly in the Panko-Parmesan mixture.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place coated tenders on a lined or greased baking sheet.
2. Bake for 15 minutes.
3. Flip the tenders and bake for another 5-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 5: Serve

1. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce, like famous fry sauce.

this Recipe

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Use Fresh Parmesan – For the best flavor and texture.
• Don’t Skip the Flip – Flipping halfway ensures even crispiness.
• Add Heat – Sprinkle red pepper flakes into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
• Air Fryer Option – Cook at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway.

How to Serve

• With Dipping Sauces – Try ranch, BBQ, honey mustard, or marinara.
• On a Salad – Add to a Caesar or garden salad.
• In a Sandwich – Layer with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

• Oven – Reheat at 375°F for 10 minutes.
• Air Fryer – Reheat at 375°F for 3-4 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat in 30-second intervals, but note they may lose crispiness.

Freezing

Freeze breaded but uncooked tenders in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and bake from frozen at 400°F for 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes! Slice chicken breasts into strips and follow the same steps.

Can I make these gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free flour and Panko.

What’s the best dipping sauce?
Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or garlic aioli all pair wonderfully.

Can I fry these instead of baking?
Yes! Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for dinner, game day snacks, or anytime you’re craving something deliciously crunchy!

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