Description
These Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken strips. Coated in a crunchy panko and Parmesan crust seasoned with garlic and paprika, they bake to golden perfection in just 35 minutes. Perfect as a family dinner or snack, they’re flavorful, tender, and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1½ pounds chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Egg Wash
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
Other
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Breading Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to ensure even seasoning.
- Make Egg Wash: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully combined and smooth.
- Coat Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender first into the egg wash, ensuring it’s completely covered, then dredge it in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the coating evenly on all sides.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for even cooking and crispness.
- Apply Oil Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the coated tenders with olive oil spray. This helps them achieve a golden, crispy finish while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes. Flip the tenders halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when the coating is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove from oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
- Ensure chicken tenders are similar in size for even cooking.
- You can substitute chicken breasts cut into strips if tenders are unavailable.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness for food safety.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
