Introduction and Quick Summary
Have you ever craved a dish that combines crispy textures with rich flavors? Picture this: golden-brown chicken tenders coated in a savory blend of herbs and topped with luscious melted parmesan cheese. This is not just any meal; this is Chicken Tenders Parmesan, a delightful dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the warm richness of cheese that melts perfectly into every forkful.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings. It’s simple enough to throw together but impressive enough to serve guests. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen as you bake these tasty tenders, making everyone eager for dinner. Whether you pair them with pasta or serve them alone with a fresh salad, you’re in for an unforgettable experience.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tenders Parmesan
- Quick and Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this dish in less than an hour—even on the busiest nights.
- Kid-Friendly Meal: Children love the crispy texture and cheesy goodness of these chicken tenders, making it an ideal choice for picky eaters.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve these tenders with marinara sauce for dipping or over a bed of pasta for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of spices and parmesan creates an irresistible flavor profile that will have your taste buds dancing.
Ingredients for Chicken Tenders Parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I typically use about 3-4 chicken breasts cut into tender-sized strips for even cooking.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan offers the best flavor; pre-packaged can work in a pinch but lacks freshness.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs provide an extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the binding agent to help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
- Garlic Powder: This adds essential flavor; feel free to adjust according to taste preferences.
For the Sauce:
- Marinara Sauce: Choose your favorite jarred sauce or homemade version to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Tenders Parmesan
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly spraying it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Coating
In three separate bowls, place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another bowl, and mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder and half of the parmesan cheese in the third bowl.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Coat each chicken strip first in flour, shaking off excess. Then dip it into the beaten eggs before finally coating it in the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each piece is well-coated.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place the breaded chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet without crowding them. Drizzle lightly with olive oil for added crispiness.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least165°F or74°C).
Step 6: Add Marinara and Cheese
In the last five minutes of baking, remove from oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Top generously with remaining parmesan cheese before returning to oven until melted.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional marinara sauce for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh ingredients like garlic and herbs to elevate flavors significantly.
- Adjust Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to customize seasoning levels based on your family’s taste preferences; paprika or Italian seasoning works great too.
- Store Leftovers Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator; they can be reheated easily within a few days.
Mistakes to avoid
- Not Marinating the Chicken
One common mistake when preparing Chicken Tenders Parmesan is skipping the marination process. Marinating the chicken enhances its flavors and helps to keep it moist during cooking. Use a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This simple step can elevate the taste of your dish significantly.
- Overcooking the Chicken Tenders
Overcooking is a frequent error when making Chicken Tenders Parmesan. If you cook the chicken for too long, it can become dry and tough. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and remove them from heat as soon as they reach this temperature. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure perfect doneness every time.
- Using Low-Quality Cheese
The choice of cheese plays a crucial role in the flavor profile of Chicken Tenders Parmesan. Avoid using low-quality cheese, as it may not melt properly or contribute significantly to the dish’s overall taste. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan or a high-quality blend to achieve that rich, savory flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Tenders Parmesan is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic Bread: The crispy texture and buttery flavor of garlic bread complement the tender chicken beautifully. Serve it on the side to soak up any extra marinara sauce.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of Chicken Tenders Parmesan. The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons enhance your meal.
- Pasta Primavera: For a heartier option, serve your Chicken Tenders Parmesan over pasta primavera. The colorful veggies add nutrition and balance to this delicious dish.
FAQs
What are the best dips for Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
When it comes to dips for Chicken Tenders Parmesan, there are several delicious options. Marinara sauce is a classic choice, offering a tangy contrast to the cheesy topping. Ranch dressing is another favorite, adding a creamy richness that complements the chicken well. For those who enjoy a bit of spice, consider serving it with buffalo sauce or a zesty aioli. These dips enhance the overall flavor and make the meal even more enjoyable.
Can I make Chicken Tenders Parmesan ahead of time?
Absolutely. Preparing Chicken Tenders Parmesan in advance can save time and effort. You can bread the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator for up to two hours before baking. If you prefer to freeze them, simply coat the chicken tenders in breadcrumbs and freeze them before cooking. When ready to serve, bake them from frozen, adjusting cooking time as needed. This allows you to enjoy this delightful dish with minimal preparation on busy days.
How do I store leftover Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
To store leftover Chicken Tenders Parmesan properly, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage. To reheat, place it in an oven preheated to 350°F until heated through, ensuring that the coating remains crispy. Avoid using a microwave if you want to maintain that perfect crunch.
What sides go well with Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
There are numerous sides that pair wonderfully with Chicken Tenders Parmesan. Some popular choices include roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, which add nutritional value and color to your plate. Mashed potatoes provide a comforting side that balances out the meal’s richness perfectly. Additionally, steamed rice or quinoa can serve as light options that allow the flavors of your main dish to shine.
Conclusion for Chicken Tenders Parmesan
In summary, Chicken Tenders Parmesan offers a delightful combination of crispy chicken coated in savory marinara sauce and gooey cheese. This dish is easy to prepare and can be enjoyed with various sides such as garlic bread, salads, or pasta dishes. It’s perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings with friends. With tips on storing leftovers and serving suggestions included above, you can easily make this tasty recipe part of your regular meal rotation. Enjoy every bite of this comforting classic.
Chicken Tenders Parmesan
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a delectable twist on a classic comfort dish that brings together crispy chicken tenders, rich marinara sauce, and ooey-gooey melted parmesan cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings, this recipe is both easy to prepare and utterly satisfying. Each tender morsel delivers a crunchy texture, complemented by the savory flavors of herbs and tangy sauce. Ready in under an hour, this meal can be served with garlic bread, salads, or pasta for a complete dining experience. Whether you’re cooking for kids or entertaining guests, Chicken Tenders Parmesan is sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 beaten eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder and half of the parmesan.
- Coat each chicken strip in flour, dip in eggs, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place on the baking sheet, drizzle lightly with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- In the last five minutes of baking, spoon marinara sauce over each tender and top with remaining parmesan; return to oven until cheese melts.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
