Indulge in the crispy, flavorful goodness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, a family-friendly recipe perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. These chicken tenders are coated in a savory garlic-Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, baked or fried to golden perfection, and served with your favorite dipping sauce. Packed with bold flavors and a satisfying crunch, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Whether you’re preparing a quick lunch for kids, hosting a game-day party, or craving something comforting, these chicken tenders fit the bill. Serve them with fries, a crisp salad, or roasted veggies for a complete and delicious meal. If you’re a fan of bold, garlicky flavors, check out our Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers for another irresistible recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
1. Crispy and Flavorful Perfection
These tenders feature a crunchy breadcrumb coating infused with garlic and Parmesan, delivering an irresistible texture and bold, savory taste.
2. Easy to Make
With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and comes together in under 30 minutes.
3. Family-Approved
Kids and adults alike will adore these chicken tenders. They’re perfect for weeknight meals, lunchboxes, or game-day snacking.
4. Versatile Cooking Options
Bake them for a healthier option or fry them for maximum crispiness—this recipe works beautifully either way.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep
Make a batch ahead of time and reheat them for quick and satisfying meals throughout the week.
Preparation Time and Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- 1/4 cup olive oil (for frying) or cooking spray (for baking)
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Ranch dressing
- Marinara sauce
- Garlic aioli
Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Prepare the Breading Station:
- Place flour in a shallow dish.
- In another dish, whisk the eggs until smooth.
- In a third dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, parsley, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken tenderloin in flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Press the tenderloin into the breadcrumb mixture, patting gently to adhere.
Cook the Tenders:
- For Baking:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Arrange the tenders on a greased baking sheet or parchment paper.
- Lightly spray with cooking spray and bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and fully cooked.
- For Frying:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Fry the tenders in batches, cooking for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Ingredient Background
Chicken Tenderloins
Chicken tenderloins are not only quick to cook but also incredibly juicy and flavorful. Their natural tenderness makes them perfect for breaded recipes like this one, ensuring that the chicken remains moist inside while the exterior achieves a crisp, golden crunch.
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers a rich, umami flavor that elevates the breading. It provides a salty, nutty taste that perfectly complements the garlic, enhancing every bite with a touch of gourmet flair.
Panko Breadcrumbs
Panko breadcrumbs create a lighter, airier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. Their unique texture absorbs less oil, resulting in a beautifully crispy crust that makes the tenders irresistible.
Garlic Powder
Garlic powder infuses the breading with deep, savory notes that pair seamlessly with Parmesan cheese. Its subtle, roasted undertones add a burst of flavor without overpowering the dish.
Olive Oil
For frying, olive oil is ideal because of its rich flavor and ability to crisp up the coating. When baking, a light spray of olive oil ensures the breading achieves the same golden perfection without excess fat.
Technique Tips for the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Use Fresh Parmesan
For the best flavor and consistency, grate fresh Parmesan. Pre-packaged shredded Parmesan often contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting and adhesion.
Keep One Hand Dry
When breading the chicken, designate one hand for handling wet ingredients (egg wash) and the other for dry ingredients (breadcrumbs and Parmesan). This prevents clumping and keeps the process smooth.
Preheat Your Oil or Oven
Ensure your skillet is hot before frying or preheat your oven fully before baking. A properly heated cooking surface guarantees a crispy exterior and prevents the tenders from sticking or soaking up excess oil.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
Frying too many tenders at once can lower the oil temperature, resulting in greasy, soggy breading. Cook in batches to maintain even heat and achieve consistent crispiness.
Rest Before Serving
After frying or baking, let the tenders rest on a wire rack for a few minutes. This allows the crust to set and prevents sogginess caused by trapped steam.
Alternative Presentation Ideas
1. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Sliders
Transform these tenders into delectable sliders. Use soft mini buns, layer with lettuce, tomatoes, and a dollop of garlic aioli. Serve as a fun appetizer or a party favorite.
2. Chicken Caesar Wraps
Slice the tenders into strips and use them to create a delicious Caesar salad wrap. Combine with romaine lettuce, Parmesan shavings, and creamy Caesar dressing for a portable meal.
3. Parmesan Chicken Tacos
For an Italian-Mexican fusion, use the tenders as taco filling. Add marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil leaves before broiling for a gooey, cheesy finish.
4. Crispy Chicken Parmesan
Layer the tenders with marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese in a baking dish. Bake until bubbly and golden for a simplified take on traditional chicken Parmesan.
5. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Salad
Slice the tenders and serve them atop a bed of mixed greens with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and croutons. Drizzle with balsamic vinaigrette or ranch dressing for a refreshing, hearty salad.
Freezing and Storing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Storing Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Transfer fully cooled tenders to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in an air fryer or oven for the best texture.
- Room Temperature: If serving within 2–3 hours, keep them covered loosely with foil to maintain warmth and crispiness.
Freezing Instructions
- Cool Completely: Let the tenders cool to room temperature to avoid condensation during freezing, which can lead to sogginess.
- Flash Freeze: Arrange the tenders in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze for 1–2 hours until firm.
- Wrap Securely: Wrap each tender individually in plastic wrap or layer them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking.
- Label and Store: Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating Tips
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place frozen tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Air Fryer: Heat at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, ensuring they regain their crispy texture.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals for a quick reheat, but note this may soften the breading.
Healthier Twist Ideas
1. Air-Fried Chicken Tenders
Skip the oil and use an air fryer to achieve crispy, golden tenders with less fat.
2. Gluten-Free Option
Swap out panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs to cater to dietary restrictions.
3. Reduced Fat
Use egg whites instead of whole eggs and reduce the amount of cheese in the breading to cut calories and fat.
4. Add Vegetables
Pair the tenders with roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers for a well-rounded, nutritious meal.
5. Dairy-Free Adaptation
Substitute nutritional yeast for Parmesan cheese and use plant-based milk in the egg wash for a dairy-free version.
Serving Suggestions for Events
1. Family Dinner
Pair the tenders with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, and dinner rolls for a comforting and satisfying family meal.
2. Game Day Snack
Serve with an assortment of dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or buffalo sauce. Arrange on a large platter for a crowd-friendly snack.
3. Kids’ Lunchbox
Include cooled tenders in a lunchbox with carrot sticks, apple slices, and a small container of ranch or ketchup. A balanced and exciting meal kids will love.
4. Brunch Gathering
Top each tender with a poached egg and drizzle with hollandaise sauce. Serve alongside waffles or hash browns for a sophisticated brunch centerpiece.
5. Holiday Potluck
Arrange the tenders on a festive tray with garnishes like lemon wedges and fresh parsley. Include ramekins of dipping sauces for easy serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I make these tenders ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the tenders ahead of time in a few ways:
- Refrigeration: Bread the tenders and refrigerate them for up to 12 hours before cooking. This is ideal for prepping meals ahead of busy evenings.
- Freezing: Bread the tenders and freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then store them in a freezer bag. This method allows you to cook them directly from frozen whenever you’re ready.
2. Can I bake these instead of frying?
Absolutely! Baking is a healthier alternative that still delivers crispy tenders.
- Method: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded tenders on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Tip: Spritz the tenders lightly with cooking spray to help them achieve a golden crust. Bake for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even browning.
3. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, these tenders can easily be adapted to suit a gluten-free diet.
- Breadcrumbs: Use gluten-free panko or traditional breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan: Check that your Parmesan cheese is certified gluten-free.
- Spices: Double-check spice mixes to ensure no hidden gluten-containing ingredients.
4. What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
The versatility of these tenders means they pair beautifully with a variety of sauces.
- Classic Pairings: Ranch, marinara, honey mustard, or garlic aioli.
- Spicy Options: Buffalo sauce, sriracha mayo, or chipotle ranch for those who like a kick.
- Unique Choices: Try a balsamic glaze, tzatziki, or even sweet chili sauce for something different.
5. How do I prevent the breading from falling off?
To ensure your breading stays intact:
- Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels before breading.
- Layer Properly: Dip the chicken fully in the egg wash before pressing it into the breadcrumb mixture.
- Rest: Let the breaded tenders sit for 10 minutes before cooking to allow the coating to adhere better.
6. Can I freeze uncooked tenders?
Yes, freezing uncooked tenders is a great way to save time later.
- Process: Bread the tenders as instructed and freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag.
- Cooking from Frozen: Cook them directly from frozen, either baking or frying, and add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked through.
7. Are these tenders spicy?
No, the base recipe is not spicy, making it kid-friendly and perfect for all palates.
- For Extra Spice: Add cayenne pepper, chili powder, or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also serve with spicy dipping sauces like buffalo sauce or sriracha mayo.
8. Is there a similar recipe I can try?
If you loved this recipe, try our Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers. These skewers feature tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory honey-garlic sauce, perfect for grilling or baking. It’s another family-friendly recipe that’s easy to make and full of flavor!
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the ultimate combination of crunchy, golden breading and bold, savory flavors. The balance of juicy chicken, nutty Parmesan, and aromatic garlic ensures every bite is a flavorful delight. Whether you bake them for a healthier option or fry them for extra crispiness, these tenders are guaranteed to become a staple in your meal rotation.
Perfectly suited for a wide range of occasions—from casual family dinners to game-day spreads, this recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Pair them with a medley of dipping sauces, incorporate them into wraps or salads, or serve them as part of a larger meal. Their simplicity and customizable nature make them a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Add this recipe to your repertoire for a foolproof crowd-pleaser that’s quick to prepare and endlessly satisfying. Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders will bring joy to your table, impressing friends and family with their crispy perfection and bold flavors. It’s a dish you’ll return to time and time again!