Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Introduction:

If you’re looking for a mouth-watering dish that’s both easy to prepare and guaranteed to be a hit at the dinner table, look no further than Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. This recipe combines the savory flavor of garlic with the rich, nutty taste of Parmesan cheese, creating a dish that’s both crispy and juicy. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer, these chicken tenders are sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

To get started, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko breadcrumbs work best for extra crunch)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional for a little kick)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
• Marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping (optional)

Instructions:

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.
2. Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second bowl, beat the eggs. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Coat the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip it in the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure it’s evenly covered on all sides. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Add the Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the chicken tenders, ensuring each piece gets a bit of butter. This will help them crisp up and add a delicious buttery flavor.
5. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through. To ensure even cooking, you may want to flip the tenders halfway through the baking time.
6. Garnish and Serve: If desired, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the cooked chicken tenders for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Serving and Storage Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:

Serving Tips:

1. Pair with Dipping Sauces: Serve your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with a variety of dipping sauces. Popular options include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy aioli. This adds an extra layer of flavor and makes the meal more enjoyable.
2. Create a Balanced Meal: Pair the chicken tenders with sides like a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or mashed potatoes for a well-rounded meal. For a more casual setting, serve them with fries or sweet potato wedges.
3. Garnish for Presentation: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or basil over the chicken tenders before serving. This not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the flavor profile.
4. Serve Hot: For the best taste and texture, serve the chicken tenders immediately after baking. If you need to keep them warm before serving, place them on a baking sheet in a 200°F (93°C) oven for up to 20 minutes.
5. Party Platter: If serving as an appetizer, arrange the chicken tenders on a large platter with dipping sauces in small bowls around the edges. Add some colorful vegetable sticks like carrots, celery, and bell peppers to the platter for a vibrant presentation.

Storage Tips:

1. Refrigeration: Allow the chicken tenders to cool to room temperature before storing. Place them in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in aluminum foil. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
2. Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the chicken tenders. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
3. Reheating: To reheat refrigerated or frozen chicken tenders, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. For frozen tenders, you may need to add an additional 5-10 minutes of baking time.
4. Microwave Option: If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat the chicken tenders in the microwave. Place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Note that the tenders may not be as crispy when reheated this way.
5. Avoid Soggy Tenders: To prevent the chicken tenders from becoming soggy when storing, place a paper towel at the bottom of the storage container. This will absorb any excess moisture and help maintain their crispiness.

Conclusion:

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delightful addition to any meal plan. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re serving them as a main course, a party appetizer, or a quick snack, these chicken tenders are a guaranteed hit. Try them out today and watch them disappear from the plate!

FAQ’s about Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts. Simply cut the breasts into strips similar in size to chicken tenders to ensure even cooking.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders up to the breading step and then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before baking. This is great for meal prepping or preparing for a party.

3. How do I ensure the chicken tenders are crispy?

For the crispiest tenders, use Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Drizzling melted butter over the tenders before baking also helps achieve a crispy texture.

4. Can I fry the chicken tenders instead of baking them?

Yes, you can fry the chicken tenders in a skillet with about 1/2 inch of oil over medium heat. Fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side.

5. What dipping sauces go well with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Popular dipping sauces include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, honey mustard, and spicy aioli. Feel free to choose your favorite!

6. How do I store leftovers?

Allow the tenders to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

7. How do I reheat the chicken tenders?

To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. For frozen tenders, add an extra 5-10 minutes of baking time. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes.

8. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

While freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers the best flavor and texture, you can use pre-grated Parmesan cheese if that’s more convenient.

9. Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by using gluten-free flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

10. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute the Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free butter or margarine. Make sure to check the labels to ensure all ingredients are dairy-free.