Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Name: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; 1 cup breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs, beaten; Olive oil for drizzling

Highlighted under: Best Dinners Recipes

I absolutely love making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders because they combine crispy texture with a rich, savory flavor. The moment I bite into these tenders, I am greeted with the incredible aroma of garlic and the unmistakable creaminess of Parmesan cheese. They are simple to prepare and are perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Plus, the joy of serving homemade tenders that everyone adores makes the effort worthwhile. It’s like having restaurant-quality food right in my own kitchen!

Created by

The Chefsimonsfood Team

Last updated on 2026-02-23T13:58:19.185Z

When I first tried making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, I was amazed by how quickly they came together. The combination of garlic powder and grated Parmesan in the breading gives the tenders a flavor boost that’s hard to resist. I often serve them with a side of tangy dipping sauce, which perfectly complements the savory notes of the chicken.

One tip that I found helpful is to let the tenders rest for a few minutes after baking before serving. This helps the crust set and keeps the tenders juicy inside. Trust me, this small step makes a significant difference!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside
Packed with garlicky goodness and cheesy flavor
Easy to prepare for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to game day snacks

Perfecting the Breading Technique

When it comes to getting that crispy coating on your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, the breading technique is crucial. After dipping in the beaten eggs, make sure to coat each tender thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press down gently to help the crumbs stick, ensuring even coverage. This step is vital because a good coating not only enhances texture but also prevents the breading from falling off during baking.

Using a combination of breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese elevates the flavor profile of the tenders. The breadcrumbs provide the crunch, while the Parmesan adds a layer of richness. Additionally, if you find the mixture isn't adhering well, lightly misting the coated tenders with olive oil before baking can help facilitate better browning and crispy edges.

Oven Baking Tips for Perfect Doneness

Baking your chicken tenders ensures a healthier dish without sacrificing flavor. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to achieve that perfect balance of crispy exterior and juicy interior. It’s important to use a wire rack on your baking sheet if you have one; this allows hot air to circulate around the tenders, enhancing their golden-brown appearance and ensuring they cook evenly.

Keep an eye on the cooking time—approximately 20 minutes should do the trick, but for best results, check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once they develop a golden appearance and the surface becomes firm to touch, you know they are done. Overbaking can cause the tenders to dry out, so I recommend setting a timer and checking a couple of minutes early.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make these delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:

Ingredients

1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 teaspoons garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 large eggs, beaten
Olive oil for drizzling

Make sure to measure out all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process, and let’s get started!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders:

Prepare the Breading

In a shallow bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.

Coat the Chicken

Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat each tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over each tenders to help them brown.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake the tenders for about 20 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce!

Now you’re ready to impress your family and friends with your homemade Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders!

Pro Tips

For an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip the chicken tenders by repeating the egg and breadcrumb coating process.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Chicken Tenders, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain their crispy texture, consider reheating them in an oven rather than a microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the coating regains its crunchiness.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken tenders. After cooling, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Flavor Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to get creative with the flavor profile of your garlic Parmesan chicken tenders! If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture. Alternatively, for an herb-infused twist, consider mixing in dried Italian herbs like oregano or basil, which complement the garlic beautifully.

To enhance the cheesy flavor even further, you could mix in a bit of grated mozzarella and use a combo of panko and regular breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy texture. These simple substitutions can elevate your dish and make mealtime exciting with varying tastes each time.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to use in place of tenders.

→ How can I make these tenders gluten-free?

You can substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these chicken tenders?

Some great options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, or marinara sauce.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tenders and refrigerate them before cooking. Just remember to bake them fresh before serving.