Description
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe offers a crispy, flavorful twist on classic chicken tenders. Coated in a mix of seasoned flour, garlic-infused oil, and a crunchy Parmesan-Panko breadcrumb blend, then baked to golden perfection, these tenders are perfect for a quick dinner or snack. Paired with a famous fry sauce, they deliver a deliciously savory bite that’s sure to please all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 1/4 pounds chicken tenders (boneless, skinless)
Breading Mix
- 1/2 cup white flour
- Salt and Pepper to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 2/3 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Coating
- 6 tablespoons olive oil (or melted butter)
- 3 teaspoons minced garlic
Dipping Sauce
- Famous Fry Sauce (quantity as desired)
Instructions
- Trim the Chicken: Thoroughly trim any excess fat from the chicken tenders to ensure even cooking and a clean bite.
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius) to get it ready for baking the chicken tenders.
- Prepare the Flour Mixture: In the first bowl, combine the white flour with about 1/4 teaspoon of pepper and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Stir well so that the seasoning is evenly distributed.
- Make Garlic Oil: In the second bowl, mix together the olive oil (or melted butter) with the minced garlic until combined; this mixture will add flavor and help the coating stick.
- Mix Breadcrumbs and Cheese: In the third bowl, combine the dried basil, paprika, Panko breadcrumbs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir to mix all the dry ingredients evenly.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the seasoned flour mixture, ensuring an even coat. Then dip into the garlic oil, followed by the Parmesan-Panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the coating sticks thoroughly.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet prepared for oven use.
- Bake the Tenders: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 15 minutes. Then flip them over and continue baking for an additional 5 to 8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite fry dipping sauce for a delicious appetizer or main course.
Notes
- You can substitute melted butter for olive oil for a richer flavor.
- Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure food safety.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
- This recipe pairs expertly with a tangy fry sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.
- For extra crispiness, slightly toast the Panko before mixing with Parmesan.
