Name: Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 500g chicken tenders; 100g freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup mayonnaise; 1/3 cup sour cream; 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice

Chicken tenders are a timeless comfort food, but when you add a golden parmesan crust and a creamy garlic dip, they transform into something downright irresistible. These Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip are all about flavor and texture. The cheese crisps up to a beautiful crunch while sealing in juicy chicken, and the garlic dip is just the right touch to cool things down with each bite.

Perfect for family dinners, game day spreads, or weeknight cravings, these tenders will have everyone reaching for seconds. You can prep them quickly, and they pair with just about anything, from salads to fries. Whether you’re feeding kids or adults, this is the kind of crowd-pleasing dish that disappears fast.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip

These tenders hit the sweet spot between easy and impressive. The parmesan crust brings that rich, salty depth, and the breadcrumbs give them just the right snap. They’re oven-baked or air-fried, so you skip the mess of frying. And let’s not forget that garlic dip — creamy, tangy, and spiked with just enough garlic to make you keep dipping. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll make on repeat.

What Kind of Parmesan Should I Use for Chicken Tenders?

You want freshly grated Parmesan for the best results. The kind in a shaker bottle won’t melt or crisp up the same way. Use a fine grater to get fluffy shreds that mix well into the breadcrumb coating. A little goes a long way, and real Parmesan gives that nutty, savory edge that makes these tenders shine.

Ingredients for the Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip

This recipe keeps it simple, with a short list that packs a punch. These ingredients are likely already in your kitchen, and each one plays a big role in building that signature flavor and texture.

Chicken tenders
Parmesan cheese
Panko breadcrumbs
Garlic powder
Paprika
Salt
Black pepper
Eggs
All-purpose flour
Mayonnaise
Sour cream
Fresh garlic
Lemon juice

How To Make the Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip (1)

Step 1: Prepare Your Breading Station

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper; another with beaten eggs; and the third with a blend of panko breadcrumbs and freshly grated Parmesan.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken Tenders

Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mix, then dip into the eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb-Parmesan mix. Make sure they’re fully coated.

Step 3: Bake or Air Fry

Place the tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet or air fryer basket. Bake at 425°F or air fry at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until golden and crisp.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Dip

Combine mayonnaise, sour cream, freshly minced garlic, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the tenders hot with a side of garlic dip and enjoy the crispy-cheesy bite with every dunk.

How to Serve and Store These Tenders with Dip

These chicken tenders are best served hot right after baking or air frying. They feed 4 people generously and are perfect for dipping, piling on top of salads, or stuffing in wraps. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or air fryer to bring back that crispy crust.

What to Serve With Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders?

Classic French Fries

Always a favorite with tenders, crispy fries are a foolproof side.

Cajun Potato Soup

Warm and cozy, this soup adds a creamy and slightly spicy contrast to the crunchy chicken. Try it here.

Mom’s Signature Macaroni Salad

A cool, tangy macaroni salad offers a refreshing balance. Find the recipe here.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes

Double up the garlic and parmesan theme with this hearty combo here.

Honey Butter Skillet Corn

For a sweeter contrast, buttery skillet corn adds richness and comfort.

Coleslaw

The tangy crunch of coleslaw cuts through the richness beautifully.

Roasted Vegetables

A tray of colorful, roasted veggies is simple and nourishing.

Biscuits or Cornbread

Great for turning the meal into a Southern-style comfort plate.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you love these crispy parmesan-crusted chicken tenders, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:

Crispy Buttered Ranch Chicken for a herb-packed twist.
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Parmesan Chicken if you crave restaurant-style richness.
Creamy Chicken and Broccoli for a cozy one-skillet meal.
Honey Mustard Chicken Thighs with golden skin and a tangy glaze.
Chicken Shawarma in a Loaf Pan for bold, spice-forward flavor.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you try air fryer or oven method? Did you make your garlic dip extra bold?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated dinner inspiration on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to comfort foods: Zoe Recipes on Pinterest

Conclusion

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip take an everyday staple and turn it into something extra. With bold flavor, a satisfying crunch, and that addictive creamy dip, this dish earns a regular spot in your weekly rotation. Quick to prep and easy to love, it’s a must-try for any home cook craving a little more crunch at dinnertime.