Introduction and Quick Summary
Have you ever craved that perfect combination of crispy, tender chicken and rich, cheesy goodness? Chicken Tenders Parmesan is the answer to your culinary desires. This dish delivers a symphony of flavors that tantalize your taste buds while providing a satisfying crunch in every bite. The golden brown exterior combined with the gooey melted cheese creates an irresistible sensation that makes it hard to stop eating.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a gathering with family and friends, this delightful recipe is sure to impress. Picture serving up these mouthwatering chicken tenders alongside a fresh salad or your favorite pasta dish. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as they bake to perfection. Get ready to experience the joy of cooking with this easy yet impressive Chicken Tenders Parmesan recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tenders Parmesan
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of crispy breading and savory cheese creates an unforgettable flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish in no time.
- Versatile Meal: Serve it on its own, over pasta, or as part of a larger meal; it’s perfect for any occasion.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids adore the crispy texture and cheesy topping, making it a hit for family dinners.
Ingredients for Chicken Tenders Parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless Chicken Tenders: Approximately one pound will serve about four people; choose fresh tenders for best results.
- Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor; panko breadcrumbs add an extra crunch.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese yields better flavor than pre-packaged; use about one cup.
- Italian Seasoning: This blend enhances the dish’s flavor profile; use about two teaspoons for optimal taste.
- Eggs: Two large eggs help bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken; ensure they’re beaten well before dipping.
For the Sauce:
- Marinara Sauce: A cup of your favorite marinara sauce adds moisture and flavor; opt for homemade if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Tenders Parmesan
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare Breading Station
Set up three bowls: one for flour mixed with salt and pepper, another for beaten eggs, and the third for combining breadcrumbs and Italian seasoning.
Step 3: Coat Chicken Tenders
Dredge each chicken tender in flour first, shaking off excess. Next, dip it into the egg mixture before coating it thoroughly with breadcrumb mixture.
Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place each coated chicken tender on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are spaced apart to allow even cooking.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
Step 6: Add Marinara Sauce and Cheese
Remove from oven and spoon marinara sauce over each tender. Sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese. Return to oven for an additional five minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more marinara sauce if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and cheeses enhance flavors significantly compared to dried alternatives.
- Bake Instead of Frying: Baking reduces calories without sacrificing texture; use a light spray of oil if desired.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allowing chicken tenders to rest after baking helps retain juiciness when you cut into them.
Mistakes to avoid
- Not Preparing the Chicken Properly: One common mistake when making Chicken Tenders Parmesan is not preparing the chicken correctly. Ensure that the chicken tenders are patted dry before breading. Excess moisture can cause the breading to become soggy instead of crispy. Additionally, evenly slice the chicken into uniform pieces to ensure consistent cooking. This way, every bite will have that delightful crunch you desire.
- Skipping the Marinade: Another mistake is skipping the marinade step. Marinating chicken tenders in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs enhances flavor significantly. Without this step, your Chicken Tenders Parmesan may taste bland. Allow at least 30 minutes for marination to let the flavors penetrate deeply into the chicken.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Using low-quality ingredients can ruin your Chicken Tenders Parmesan dish. Opt for fresh, high-quality cheese and breadcrumbs to elevate your meal. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better and adds a richer flavor compared to pre-packaged options. The same goes for breadcrumbs; homemade or high-quality store-bought varieties provide better texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Tenders Parmesan
This Chicken Tenders Parmesan is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Pasta Primavera – The fresh vegetables in a light sauce complement the crispy chicken tenders perfectly.
- Garlic Bread – A side of garlic bread adds a delightful crunch and enhances the meal’s flavor.
- Caesar Salad – This classic salad balances the richness of the chicken with its crisp greens and tangy dressing.
FAQs about Chicken Tenders Parmesan
What ingredients do I need for Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
To make Chicken Tenders Parmesan, you will need boneless, skinless chicken breasts, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. It’s essential to season your chicken well with salt and pepper for added flavor. You can also incorporate Italian herbs like basil and oregano into the breadcrumb mixture for an extra kick. The combination of these ingredients ensures that each bite is savory and satisfying. Don’t forget to have some cooking oil on hand for frying or baking the chicken tenders!
How do I cook Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
Cooking Chicken Tenders Parmesan involves several simple steps. First, preheat your oven if you’re baking. Coat the chicken in seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese. Then, pan-fry or bake until golden brown and fully cooked. After that, place the crispy tenders in a baking dish, cover them with marinara sauce, and top with mozzarella cheese. Bake until the cheese melts and bubbles beautifully. This method creates a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
Can I make Chicken Tenders Parmesan ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Chicken Tenders Parmesan ahead of time! Cook the chicken tenders as directed but stop before adding the marinara sauce and cheese. Allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply layer them in a baking dish with sauce and cheese and bake until heated through. This makes it convenient for busy weeknights or meal prep days!
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs in Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
If you want to substitute breadcrumbs in Chicken Tenders Parmesan, consider using crushed crackers or panko breadcrumbs for a different texture. Almond flour or ground oats can also work well if you’re looking for gluten-free options. Additionally, you could try using finely chopped nuts for added flavor and crunch. Each alternative brings its unique taste profile while still allowing you to enjoy this delicious dish.
Conclusion for Chicken Tenders Parmesan
In summary, Chicken Tenders Parmesan is not only easy to prepare but also offers delightful flavors that appeal to many palates. By combining crispy chicken tenders with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese, this dish becomes a family favorite quickly. Pair it with sides like pasta primavera or garlic bread for a balanced meal that satisfies everyone at the table. Additionally, knowing how to prepare it ahead of time offers convenience without sacrificing taste. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, Chicken Tenders Parmesan is sure to impress!
Chicken Tenders Parmesan
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4 servings 1x
Description
Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a delightful dish that brings together crispy, golden-brown chicken tenders topped with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is a hit among kids and adults alike. With its easy preparation and comforting flavors, you can enjoy this tantalizing meal alongside a fresh salad or pasta for a well-rounded dinner that impresses family and friends. Experience the joy of cooking with this straightforward recipe that delivers on taste and satisfaction.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless chicken tenders
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (or panko)
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set up three bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, another with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs mixed with Italian seasoning.
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, dip in egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Arrange coated tenders on the baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove from oven, add marinara sauce on top, sprinkle generously with Parmesan cheese, and bake for an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken tender (85g)
- Calories: 295
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 120mg