Are you ready to dive into a world of flavor with my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders? These easy-to-make, crispy tenders are packed with delicious garlic and cheesy goodness. Whether you want a tasty dinner or a fun snack, these tenders are perfect. I’ll guide you through the simple steps and tips to achieve a golden-brown crunch. Let’s get cooking and impress your family with this delightful dish!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic and Parmesan creates a rich, savory taste that elevates the chicken tenders beyond ordinary.
- Crispy Texture: The breadcrumb and Parmesan coating ensures a delightful crunch with every bite, making them irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile Dish: These chicken tenders can be served as an appetizer, main dish, or even in salads, adapting to any meal occasion.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you will need:
– 1 lb chicken tenders
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian seasoned preferred)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 3 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
– Lemon wedges (for serving)
Ingredient Substitutions
If you lack any ingredient, here are some easy swaps:
– Use cornstarch instead of flour for a gluten-free option.
– Try lemon pepper or Italian seasoning in place of garlic and onion powders.
– Substitute any cheese you like for Parmesan, such as Pecorino Romano.
– Use any oil suitable for frying, like vegetable or canola oil.
Tips for Selecting Fresh Ingredients
Choose fresh chicken tenders that look pink and moist. They should not have any bad smells. For parsley, pick bright green leaves without brown spots. When selecting eggs, look for ones with clean, uncracked shells. Fresh breadcrumbs should smell a bit yeasty and not stale.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Dredging Stations
To start, gather three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. This blend gives the chicken a great flavor. In the second bowl, beat two large eggs. This will help the coating stick. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. This will create a crispy crust that everyone loves.
Coating the Chicken
Now, take one chicken tender. First, coat it in the flour mixture. Make sure to shake off the extra flour. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs. Let any excess egg drip off. Finally, dredge it in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mix. Press gently so the coating sticks well. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.
Cooking the Chicken Tenders
Heat three tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the coated chicken tenders. Do this in a single layer. Avoid crowding the skillet to ensure even cooking. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes. Look for a golden brown color. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. When done, transfer the tenders to a paper towel-lined plate. This will help absorb any excess oil. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top while they are still hot. Serve them right away with lemon wedges on the side for a tasty zing.
Tips & Tricks
Ensuring Crispy Texture
To get that perfect crunch, follow a few simple steps. Use fresh breadcrumbs for better texture. I prefer Italian seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor. Make sure to coat your chicken well in the flour mix. This step helps the egg stick better. Let the excess flour shake off before dipping in the egg. Lastly, after coating in breadcrumbs, press gently to ensure they stick.
Cooking Tips for Perfectly Golden Tenders
Heat your oil well before adding the chicken tenders. If the oil is not hot enough, the chicken absorbs too much oil. Cook in small batches to avoid crowding the pan. This allows even cooking and crispiness. Fry each tender for about 4-5 minutes on each side. Check the internal temperature to ensure it reaches 165°F. This step keeps your tenders juicy and safe to eat.
Serving Suggestions with Dipping Sauces
These garlic Parmesan chicken tenders shine with the right dips. I love serving them with a zesty lemon wedge for a fresh touch. You can also pair them with ranch dressing or marinara sauce. Try adding a spicy aioli for an extra kick. Serve them on a platter with colorful veggies for a fun presentation. This makes your meal not only tasty but also visually appealing!
Pro Tips
- Tip Title 1: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for at least an hour before coating them. This will make them tender and juicy.
- Tip Title 2: Ensure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken by testing it with a breadcrumb. If it sizzles immediately, you’re good to go!
- Tip Title 3: To make cleanup easier, use a splatter guard while frying to minimize oil splatters on your stovetop.
- Tip Title 4: For a healthier version, you can bake the chicken tenders at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Variations
Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Baking chicken tenders is a healthier option. To make baked garlic Parmesan chicken tenders, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare the chicken as usual, but instead of frying, place them on a baking sheet. Spray or drizzle a little olive oil on top. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway. Look for a nice golden color. This method keeps them crispy and tasty while cutting down on oil.
Spicy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
If you like heat, add some spice! To make spicy garlic Parmesan chicken tenders, mix cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes into the flour mixture. You can also add hot sauce to the beaten eggs for extra flavor. This gives the tenders a nice kick without losing that garlic and Parmesan goodness.
Gluten-Free Options
For a gluten-free version, swap out the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs. Use gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs instead. The same spices work great here, ensuring you keep that fantastic taste. These tenders will still be crispy and delicious, perfect for anyone avoiding gluten.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftover Chicken Tenders
To keep your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb any moisture. This helps keep your tenders crispy. You can store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Instructions
Reheat your chicken tenders in the oven for the best results. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet. Heat them for about 10-15 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy again. You can also use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.
Freezing Uncooked/ Cooked Tenders
For uncooked tenders, freeze them before frying. Place the breaded tenders on a baking sheet and freeze them for about 2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can stay in the freezer for up to 3 months. For cooked tenders, let them cool completely before freezing. Follow the same steps, and they will last for about 2-3 months in the freezer.
FAQs
What is the best way to ensure chicken tenders stay juicy?
To keep chicken tenders juicy, brine them first. Use a mix of water and salt. Soak the chicken for 30 minutes. This helps the meat absorb moisture. After brining, coat the chicken as usual. Fry them until golden brown. The brine works wonders for flavor and juiciness.
Can I make these tenders in an air fryer?
Yes, you can make these tenders in an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F. Coat the chicken as you would for frying. Place the tenders in a single layer in the basket. Cook for about 10-12 minutes. Flip halfway through for even cooking. The air fryer gives you that crispy texture without much oil.
What to serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
These garlic Parmesan chicken tenders pair well with many sides. Try serving them with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette works great. You can also add crispy fries or roasted vegetables. For a dip, serve ranch or garlic aioli. Lemon wedges add a nice touch too!
In this article, we explored how to make delicious chicken tenders. We covered the best ingredients and how to pick fresh ones. I shared step-by-step instructions for dredging and cooking. You also learned tips for crispy texture and serving ideas. Plus, we looked at tasty variations and storage tips.
Now you have all the tools to make perfect chicken tenders at home. Enjoy creating your own flavor
