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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: Crispy Comfort in Every Bite

This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe is a quick, flavorful, and guilt-free dinner solution for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 tenders
Course: DINNER
Cuisine: American
Calories: 280

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts Cut into tenders.
  • 2 Eggs Can substitute with buttermilk or a flax egg.
For the Coating
  • 2 cups Cornflakes Can swap for panko breadcrumbs or crushed pretzels.
  • 1 tablespoon Garlic Powder Fresh garlic can be used for more robust flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust to personal taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Use regular paprika as a substitute if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Freshly cracked offers the most flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 4 tablespoons Butter Can use olive oil or ghee as alternatives.
  • 1 cup Freshly Grated Parmigiano Reggiano Grana Padano works well too.
  • 2 tablespoons Chopped Parsley For garnish.

Equipment

  • Air Fryer
  • Oven
  • mixing bowl
  • baking sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • whisk

Method
 

  1. Start by generously seasoning the chicken tenders with garlic powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

Nutrition

Serving: 1tenderCalories: 280kcalCarbohydrates: 20gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 400mgFiber: 1gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 1mg

Notes

These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders can be served with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor boost. They are great for meal prep or as a quick weeknight dinner option.

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