How to Create Crispy Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders
If you’re craving something crispy, cheesy, and delicious but don’t want to deal with deep-frying or a complicated recipe, baked parmesan chicken tenders might be just what you’re looking for. These golden, crunchy strips of chicken require just a few simple ingredients and are much healthier than fried versions. Even better, they’re easy to make at home, so you can enjoy them whenever the mood strikes!
Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to make these tasty chicken tenders step by step.
Ingredients
To make crispy baked parmesan chicken tenders, you’ll need the following ingredients. The quantities can be adjusted depending on how many servings you’re planning to make:
- 1 pound (450 g) chicken tenders or breasts (sliced into 1-inch-wide strips)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs are fine)
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a bit of color and flavor)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
- Cooking spray or a bit of oil (to prevent sticking)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Baked chicken tenders need high heat to achieve that crispy golden crust.
Place a baking sheet on the counter and line it with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Spray the lined sheet with a bit of cooking spray or lightly brush with oil to stop the tenders from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Bread Crumb Mixture
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika (if using), and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will coat the chicken and give it its crispy texture and cheesy flavor. Stir well to make sure the flavors are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Prepare the Egg Wash
In another shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs and a tablespoon of water. The egg wash will help bind the breadcrumb mixture to the chicken, ensuring the coating sticks perfectly.
Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Now it’s time to coat your chicken tenders! Take one chicken strip and dip it into the egg wash, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture and press down gently so the crumbs stick to the chicken on all sides. Shake off any excess crumbs and place the coated tender on your prepared baking sheet.
Repeat this process for all the chicken pieces.
Step 5: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Once all the chicken tenders are coated and placed on the baking sheet, spray them lightly with cooking spray or drizzle a few drops of oil over the top. This step helps them crisp up in the oven.
Place the baking sheet in your preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes. Flip the chicken tenders halfway through the baking time (around 10-12 minutes) to ensure they cook evenly and both sides turn golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Check and Serve
To make sure your chicken tenders are fully cooked, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) using a meat thermometer. If you don’t have one, slice into a tender to check that the chicken is no longer pink inside.
Once they’re done, remove the tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Tips for Extra Crispy Tenders
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are bigger and lighter than regular breadcrumbs, helping the tenders achieve a super crispy texture.
- Don’t Skip the Oil Spray: Adding a bit of oil on top of the tenders before baking helps the coating become golden and crunchy.
- Space Them Out: Make sure the chicken strips are not touching each other on the baking sheet. Crowding them can lead to steam, which prevents crispiness.
Serving Suggestions
These crispy baked parmesan chicken tenders are super versatile! Here are a few ideas for serving them:
– With Dipping Sauces: Serve them with ketchup, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce for dipping.
– In a Salad: Slice the tenders and serve them on top of a fresh green salad with your favorite dressing.
– As a Side or Snack: Pair them with sweet potato fries, roasted veggies, or enjoy them on their own!
Why Baked is Better
Baking chicken tenders instead of frying them is a healthier alternative. It cuts down on unnecessary oil but still delivers the crunchy texture we all love. Plus, baking is less messy, so cleanup is quick and easy!
Conclusion
Making crispy baked parmesan chicken tenders at home is fast, simple, and satisfying. With a few basic ingredients and an oven, you can prepare this crowd-pleasing dish for your family, friends, or even just yourself! Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a kid-friendly main course, or a healthier version of your favorite comfort food, these chicken tenders are sure to be a hit.
Give this recipe a try and let your taste buds enjoy the perfect combination of crispy breadcrumbs, savory parmesan cheese, and juicy chicken. Happy cooking!
