After a long day filled with meetings and errands, the last thing I want to resort to is yet another takeout menu. That’s when I discovered the joy of making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders at home. With an irresistible crunch and a buttery garlic kick, these tenders quickly became a family favorite. What’s even better? You can whip them up in less time than it takes to decide what to order!
Imagine serving tender, juicy chicken coated in a crispy garlic parmesan crust that would make any fast-food restaurant envious. Whether you choose to air fry or bake them, these tenders are not just easy to prepare, but they are also a delicious solution to your weeknight dinner dilemmas. Perfect for kids and grownups alike, they transform a hectic evening into a cozy family meal, or serve them up for game day; either way, they’re sure to impress. So, let’s dive into this flavor-packed adventure that’s as fun to make as it is to eat!
Why will you love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Quick and Easy: This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, ready in under 30 minutes.
Mouthwatering Flavor: The rich garlic parmesan coating provides irresistible taste that’s sure to delight your family.
Healthier Option: Enjoy crispy tenders without the guilt, made fresher than fast food.
Kid-Friendly: Kids will love these tender bites, making dinner a breeze.
Versatile Cooking: Bake or air fry them to suit your kitchen needs, ensuring crispy results every time!
For more cooking inspiration, don’t forget to check out the baked chicken recipes for even more ways to enjoy this delicious protein!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Ingredients
Discover the perfect blend of flavors with these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders!
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts – Cut into tenders for a tender, juicy bite. You can substitute with boneless skinless chicken thighs for extra moisture.
• Eggs – These bind the coating beautifully; for an egg-free version, try buttermilk or a flax egg.
For the Coating
• Cornflakes – Provides a delightful crunch; you can swap this for panko breadcrumbs or crushed pretzels if you prefer.
• Garlic Powder – boosts flavor; fresh garlic can be used for a more robust taste.
• Salt – Enhances all the flavors; adjust to your personal taste.
• Smoked Paprika – Adds smokiness; regular paprika is a fine substitute if preferred.
• Black Pepper – Freshly cracked offers the most flavor for seasoning.
For the Sauce
• Butter – Adds a rich taste to the sauce; olive oil or ghee can be used as alternatives.
• Freshly Grated Parmigiano Reggiano – Essential for that cheesy garlic goodness; Grana Padano works well too.
• Chopped Parsley – A fresh garnish that brightens up the dish and adds color.
With these ingredients at hand, you’re just a few steps away from satisfying everyone’s taste buds!
How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
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Season Chicken: Start by generously seasoning the chicken tenders with garlic powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
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Bread Chicken: Dip each tender in the whisked eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, coat them thoroughly in crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to secure the coating. Set the breaded tenders aside.
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Cooking (Air Fryer): Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with oil, then arrange the tenders in a single layer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway to ensure even crispiness.
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Cooking (Oven): If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 425°F (220°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment and spray them lightly with oil. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping midway through for golden perfection.
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Make Garlic Parmesan Sauce: While the chicken cooks, in a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Heat it in 1-2 minute intervals until bubbling beautifully.
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Combine: Once your tenders are golden and cooked through, toss them in the warm garlic parmesan sauce. Plate them up and garnish with freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for a color pop.
Optional: Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are ideal for meal prep, ensuring a quick and effortless dinner when you’re busy! You can bread the chicken tenders and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking—this allows the flavors to meld while maintaining their crunch. If you prefer to prepare even further in advance, breaded tenders can be frozen for up to 2 months; just remember to use an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy your delicious tenders, simply cook them from frozen, increasing the cooking time by a few minutes, or cook the refrigerated ones straight from the fridge for restaurant-quality results with minimal effort!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Variations
Embrace creativity and make these chicken tenders your own with a few simple tweaks!
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Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper to the coating for a fiery flavor that brings excitement to your palate.
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Herb Blend: Mix in dried Italian seasoning or fresh oregano with the cornflake mixture for an aromatic twist that enhances the overall taste.
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Zesty Garlic Butter: Elevate the garlic sauce by adding a splash of lemon juice and lemon zest; it brightens the dish beautifully for an unforgettable dining experience.
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Cheesy Upgrade: Incorporate a blend of different cheeses, like mozzarella or cheddar, into the coating for a gooey, cheesy layer that will delight cheese lovers.
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Nutty Crunch: Substitute half of the cornflakes with crushed almonds or walnuts for a nutty crunch that adds a delightful texture and flavor.
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BBQ Flair: For a smoky twist, replace garlic powder with your favorite BBQ seasoning in the coating and serve with BBQ sauce for dipping.
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Oven-Baked Crisps: If you like more crunch, bake the coated tenders on a wire rack over a baking sheet; this will help air circulate, achieving a crispier exterior.
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Asian-Inspired: Swap the parmesan for sesame seeds in the sauce and consider adding a drizzle of soy sauce or teriyaki sauce to the tenders for a unique, flavorful twist.
Explore these variations to keep mealtime exciting and make every dinner an adventure!
What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
These delightful tenders beckon for tasty companions that elevate your meal into a joyous feast.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery smoothness beautifully balances the crunchy chicken, creating a comforting mix of textures on your plate.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant medley of greens and colorful veggies adds a refreshing crunch and lightness to complement the tenders.
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Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: This sweet-tangy sauce enhances the flavors of the chicken and adds a fun element for dipping, especially loved by kids.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The natural sweetness of these fries complements the savory garlic parmesan flavor, making every bite a delicious harmony of taste.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies provide a hearty, nutritious side that pairs wonderfully, both in flavor and visual appeal.
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Garlic Bread: For garlic lovers, this crunchy, buttery classic amplifies the flavor profile, making it a delightful addition that nobody can resist.
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Ice Cold Lemonade: A refreshing drink option that cuts through the richness of the tenders, cleansing the palate between bites.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with warm cookies, their gooey texture contrasting beautifully with the crispy tenders.
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Cheesy Broccoli Casserole: This creamy side brings cheesy goodness together with tender broccoli, ensuring you get a comforting and nutritious touch for your family dinner.
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Sparkling Water: A lovely non-sweet beverage option to cleanse the palate and keep your meal light and refreshing.
How to Store and Freeze Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- Fridge: Store cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
- Freezer: Uncooked, breaded tenders can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Reheating: For best results, reheat cooked tenders in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5–7 minutes until crispy, or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes.
- Make-Ahead: You can bread the tenders a day in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking, ensuring quick dinner prep!
Expert Tips for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
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Ensure Proper Coating: Don’t skip pressing the cornflakes firmly onto the chicken; this helps achieve that signature crispy texture for your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders.
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Temperature Matters: Always preheat your air fryer or oven. This ensures even cooking and helps the tenders achieve a perfect crunch without drying out.
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Space Them Out: When using the air fryer, avoid overcrowding the basket. Give your tenders some room to circulate, promoting even cooking and crispiness.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the tenders; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
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Customize Flavors: Feel free to experiment with spices in the coating, like switching smoked paprika for a spicy twist, or adding dried herbs for an extra flavor boost.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Absolutely! For the juiciest tenders, I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. If you prefer extra moisture, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great alternative. Look for chicken with no dark spots or bruising, and ensure it is firm and pink.
What’s the best way to store leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
To keep your cooked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I suggest reheating them in the oven or air fryer for about 5–7 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to restore their crispiness; the microwave might leave them soggy!
Can I freeze the uncooked chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze your uncooked, breaded chicken tenders for up to 2 months! Simply place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag, removing as much air as possible. When you’re ready to cook, no need to thaw—just extend the cooking time by a few minutes.
What should I do if my chicken tenders aren’t crispy enough?
Very! If your Chicken Tenders aren’t reaching that coveted crispiness, make sure you are pressing the cornflake coating firmly onto the chicken. Also, give them enough space in the air fryer or on the baking sheet to allow airflow, which is essential for even cooking. If they are overcrowded, they might steam instead of crisp up.
Are there any dietary restrictions I should be aware of?
Yes! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, ensure they aren’t sensitive to any of the ingredients like eggs or dairy. For a gluten-free version, substitute cornflakes with gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’re good to go! Additionally, you might consider omitting the butter for dairy-free needs and using olive oil instead.
How can I add more flavor to my Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
For a culinary twist, sprinkle some Italian seasoning or dried herbs into the cornflake coating for an added depth of flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, mix in chili flakes or cayenne pepper. For an extra zesty kick, try adding lemon zest to the garlic butter sauce. Enjoy the creativity in adjusting flavors to your family’s preferences!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Crispy Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by generously seasoning the chicken tenders with garlic powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Dip each tender in the whisked eggs, allowing the excess to drip off. Then, coat them thoroughly in crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to secure the coating. Set the breaded tenders aside.
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with oil, then arrange the tenders in a single layer. Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway to ensure even crispiness.
- If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 425°F (220°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment and spray them lightly with oil. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping midway through for golden perfection.
- While the chicken cooks, in a microwave-safe bowl, melt the butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Heat it in 1-2 minute intervals until bubbling beautifully.
- Once your tenders are golden and cooked through, toss them in the warm garlic parmesan sauce. Plate them up and garnish with freshly grated parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for a color pop.