Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan Tenders
Delight your family and friends with these Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan Tenders! This healthier take on the classic dish combines succulent chicken with a golden, crunchy panko coating and rich Parmesan flavors. Perfectly baked to perfection at 350°F, these tender, cheesy chicken strips can be served over spaghetti with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella for a comforting meal, or tucked into a hoagie roll for a delightful Chicken Parmesan Sub. Enjoy them as an appetizer with marinara or ranch for a fun dipping experience!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts (cut into strips)
8-9 tenderloins or 3 breasts (cut into strips)
fresh grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (shredded)
grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup (powdered pizza topping cheese)
panko breadcrumbs
1 1/4 cups
Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon
salt
1 teaspoon
black pepper
1/4 teaspoon
garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon
large eggs
3 (beaten)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2
In a medium bowl, beat the eggs until well combined. Set aside.
3
In a separate bowl, mix together both types of Parmesan cheese, panko breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until evenly incorporated.
4
Take each chicken tenderloin (or chicken breast strips) and dip it first in the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated.
5
Next, transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down slightly to ensure an even coating. Repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating for extra crispiness.
6
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving space between each piece.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
8
Serve immediately over pasta with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of melted mozzarella cheese or in a hoagie roll with marinara and mozzarella for a delicious Chicken Parmesan Sub. Enjoy as is or with a side of your favorite dipping sauce!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Crispy Baked Chicken Parmesan Tenders?
They are a healthier, baked version of classic Chicken Parmesan featuring chicken strips coated in a crunchy panko and Parmesan mixture.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
The oven should be preheated to 350°F (175°C).
How long do the chicken tenders need to bake?
The chicken should bake for 30 to 35 minutes until golden brown and thoroughly cooked.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
You can use either 8-9 chicken tenderloins or 3 chicken breasts cut into strips.
What kind of breadcrumbs are used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1 1/4 cups of panko breadcrumbs for maximum crispiness.
Why does the recipe use two types of Parmesan cheese?
It uses fresh grated Parmesan for flavor and powdered grated Parmesan for a more even, fine coating.
How many eggs are required for the breading process?
Three large eggs are needed, beaten well to help the breading stick.
What seasonings are added to the breadcrumb mixture?
The mixture includes Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
How do I ensure the chicken tenders are extra crispy?
You can repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating process for a thicker, crunchier crust.
How should I prepare the baking sheet?
Line the baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent the tenders from sticking.
How should the chicken be arranged on the pan?
Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer, leaving space between each piece for even airflow.
Can I make a Chicken Parmesan Sub with this recipe?
Yes, serve the tenders in a hoagie roll with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
What is a good dipping sauce for these tenders?
Marinara sauce and ranch dressing are both excellent choices for dipping.
Can these be served over pasta?
Absolutely, they are perfect over spaghetti with marinara sauce and a sprinkle of melted mozzarella.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, baking the chicken instead of frying it makes it a lighter and healthier alternative to traditional versions.
How much Italian seasoning is needed?
The recipe requires one teaspoon of Italian seasoning.
What is the amount of garlic powder used?
Use 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder in the breading mixture.
How should the eggs be prepared?
Beat the eggs in a medium bowl until they are well combined before dipping the chicken.
How do I apply the breading?
Dip each piece of chicken in the beaten eggs first, then transfer to the breadcrumb mixture and press down slightly.
Can I use fresh Parmesan?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 1/3 cup of fresh grated Parmesan cheese.
Should the chicken be served immediately?
Yes, for the best texture and flavor, serve the tenders immediately after baking.
Is this a kid-friendly recipe?
Yes, these cheesy chicken strips are a favorite for family-friendly meals.
What categories does this recipe fall into?
It is categorized as Italian cuisine, comfort food, and a healthy dinner option.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes, simply cut three chicken breasts into even strips.
What is the ratio of salt to pepper?
Use 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
What makes the coating golden brown?
The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese browns beautifully in the oven.
Do I need any special equipment?
You only need a baking sheet, parchment paper, and bowls for dipping.
Can I serve these as an appetizer?
Yes, they work perfectly as a fun appetizer with various dipping sauces.
What is the main flavor profile?
The profile is rich and savory, highlighted by Parmesan cheese and classic Italian herbs.
How many tenderloins does this recipe yield?
The recipe is designed for approximately 8 to 9 chicken tenderloins.