Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

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If there’s one thing I never get tired of, it’s the heavenly crunch of homemade chicken tenders. When I made these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, I knew they were something special. The smell of garlic sizzling in butter and the nutty aroma of parmesan wafting through the kitchen was absolutely irresistible. This is the kind of dish that doesn’t just fill your belly—it draws people into the kitchen with curiosity and leaves them asking for seconds.

I love making meals that feel both comforting and elevated, and these tenders strike that balance perfectly. They start off like any good chicken tender should: juicy chicken strips coated in a crisp layer of breadcrumbs. But it’s the mix of garlic and parmesan that really takes them over the top. There’s something luxurious about biting into a crispy tender with just the right hint of garlic and that cheesy richness.

This recipe has become a weeknight go-to for me. It’s quick, kid-friendly, and endlessly satisfying. I’ve even found myself prepping extra batches just to keep in the freezer for those busy nights. Whether served with a dipping sauce, over a salad, or alongside pasta, these chicken tenders deliver every time.

Check out some similar comfort food recipes like Marry Me Chicken Pasta or this ultra-cozy Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, and don’t miss the flavor-packed Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta.

Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the perfect blend of crispy texture and rich flavor. The garlic-butter coating gives them an aromatic punch while the parmesan adds a savory depth that’s totally addicting. They come together in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Plus, they bake up beautifully in the oven or air fryer, so you can enjoy all the crunch with less oil. If you’re a fan of comfort food with a twist, this recipe is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Chicken tenders are the star of this dish, offering juicy, lean protein that’s easy to cook and always satisfying.

Parmesan cheese, finely grated, provides a sharp, nutty flavor that complements the garlic perfectly and crisps up beautifully when baked.

Garlic, fresh and minced, infuses the entire dish with a bold, aromatic kick that lingers deliciously in every bite.

Breadcrumbs, preferably panko, create that golden, crispy coating we all crave in a tender.

Butter, melted and combined with garlic, gives a rich base that helps the coating stick and adds irresistible flavor.

Eggs serve as the perfect binder to help the breadcrumb and cheese mixture cling to the chicken.

Italian seasoning brings a hint of herbs that elevates the flavor profile, making each bite more vibrant.

Salt and black pepper enhance all the other flavors and bring balance to the dish.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prep Your Breading Station

Set up three bowls: one with beaten eggs, one with a mix of panko breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, and Italian seasoning, and one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper. This setup keeps the process smooth and mess-free.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour, then dip in the egg wash, and finally coat in the parmesan-breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each piece is fully coated to ensure a crisp, even crust.

Step 3: Bake or Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F or your air fryer to 375°F. Arrange the tenders on a lined baking sheet or air fryer basket. Lightly spray with oil and bake for 18-20 minutes (or air fry for 12-14 minutes), flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Step 4: Serve Hot and Crispy

Let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps them finish cooking internally and keeps the crust crunchy. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauce or a side of garlic aioli.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

One of the best things about these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is how versatile they are. You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit your pantry or preferences. Swap chicken tenders for chicken breasts cut into strips if that’s what you have on hand. If you’re dairy-free, nutritional yeast can mimic some of the savory flavor of parmesan. Want a gluten-free version? Use almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and gluten-free flour for dredging.

Spice things up by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the breadcrumb mixture. For a fun twist, mix crushed cornflakes with the breadcrumbs for an extra crunch. Or skip the oven and pan-fry them in olive oil for a crispier finish.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

These tenders are fantastic served on their own with a dipping sauce like ranch, honey mustard, or garlic aioli. I also love pairing them with a crisp Caesar salad or some oven-roasted root vegetables. They’re excellent wrapped in a tortilla for a chicken tender wrap or served over pasta with a drizzle of Alfredo sauce.

Another delicious option? Slide them into a soft bun with lettuce and tomato for an unforgettable chicken sandwich.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the crispy texture, reheat them in an oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes or in an air fryer for 5-6 minutes. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it tends to make the breading soggy.

You can also freeze the cooked tenders for up to 2 months. Lay them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat directly from frozen using the oven or air fryer.

FAQs

How do I make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders without an oven?

You can easily pan-fry the tenders in a bit of olive oil over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Can I use pre-shredded parmesan for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Freshly grated parmesan is ideal because it melts and crisps better, but pre-shredded can work in a pinch. Just make sure it’s finely shredded.

Are Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders spicy?

Not at all! They’re flavorful and savory but not spicy. You can add a little cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg wash if you want a kick.

What dipping sauce goes best with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?

Garlic aioli, ranch, marinara, or a creamy Caesar dressing are all delicious options to complement the flavors.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, you should definitely try my Marry Me Chicken Pasta. It’s rich, creamy, and packed with flavor that makes every bite unforgettable. Another winner is the Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts, perfect for garlic lovers and just as easy to make.

Or give my Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta a shot for a hearty, comforting twist that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to save this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe! Pin it to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s always within reach for a quick weeknight dinner or crowd-pleasing weekend meal. Sharing is caring—send it to a fellow foodie, post it to your socials, or email it to someone who needs a little comfort food in their life. Every share helps spread the love for easy, delicious home cooking!

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