Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Introduction
These crispy Parmesan chicken tenders are a perfect blend of crunch and flavor, ideal as an appetizer, snack, or main dish.
Coated in a golden, cheesy crust and served with dipping sauces, they are irresistible to both kids and adults alike.
Pair them with fries and your favorite sauces for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal!
Ingredients
– 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Fresh chopped chives (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Breading Station
Place the flour in a shallow dish.
In a second dish, whisk the eggs and milk together.
In a third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
2. Coat the Chicken
Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, shaking off excess.
Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
Finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
3. Heat the Oil
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat (approximately 350°F / 175°C).
4. Fry the Chicken
Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil.
Fry for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C).
Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh chopped chives and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo.
Tips
– For a healthier version, bake the tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
– Use an air fryer for a crispy texture with less oil—cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12 to 15 minutes.
– Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
– These chicken tenders are best enjoyed fresh but can also be reheated for a quick and easy meal.
More Tips for Perfect Results
To achieve perfectly crispy Parmesan chicken tenders, use panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan for the coating. Panko creates a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
For extra crispiness, toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet with a touch of oil before coating the chicken. This step ensures a golden-brown crust that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
When breading the tenders, use the classic three-step method: dredge in flour, dip in egg, then coat with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture. Press the coating gently onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
Bake the tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet for even heat distribution, or use an air fryer for convenience and crispiness.
Variations
– For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
– Mix in Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley and thyme for an aromatic twist.
– Add garlic powder or onion powder for a deeper savory flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
Dairy-Free Option: Replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast to keep the cheesy flavor without using dairy.
Sauce Pairings: Try marinara, honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo to complement different flavor profiles.
Conclusion
Crispy Parmesan chicken tenders are a deliciously satisfying dish that strikes the perfect balance between savory, cheesy flavors and a crunchy texture.
They’re easy to prepare and make for a versatile meal or snack that both kids and adults will love. With a few simple tips, you can replicate restaurant-quality crispiness right in your kitchen.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try creative variations, these chicken tenders are bound to become a favorite in your household.
Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a party spread—and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite.