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Have you ever craved a dish that perfectly blends crunchy exterior with tender meat? This Chicken Tenders Parmesan is just that—a delightful combination that tantalizes the taste buds. The juicy chicken tenders come alive with Italian seasoning and are generously topped with bubbling cheese, making it an irresistible meal for any occasion.
Imagine serving this savory delight at a family dinner or enjoying it as a cozy weeknight treat. The aroma wafting through your kitchen while it bakes is simply heavenly. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch followed by the richness of parmesan cheese and marinara sauce. Elevate your dining experience with this easy-to-follow recipe that promises maximum satisfaction with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Tenders Parmesan
- Quick and Easy Preparation: This recipe allows you to prepare a delicious meal in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Kid-Friendly Flavor: With its crispy texture and cheesy goodness, kids will love these chicken tenders—making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve these tenders over pasta, salad, or as a standalone dish with your favorite dipping sauces for an adaptable meal.
Ingredients for Chicken Tenders Parmesan
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 1 pound of chicken breasts cut into strips for the best texture.
- All-Purpose Flour: This helps create a crispy coating when combined with the egg mixture.
- Eggs: Lightly beaten eggs help the breading adhere to the chicken.
- Breadcrumbs: Use seasoned breadcrumbs for extra flavor in the crispy coating.
- Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated parmesan adds rich flavor; avoid pre-packaged for better results.
- Marinara Sauce: A good quality marinara sauce enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Olive Oil: Drizzle lightly over the breaded chicken before baking to achieve that golden-brown color.
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 Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with nonstick cooking spray for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading Station
Set up three shallow bowls; one for flour mixed with salt and pepper, another for beaten eggs, and a third filled with seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Dip each chicken strip first into the flour mixture, then into the eggs, followed by coating it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Place each piece onto the prepared baking sheet.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
Drizzle olive oil over the breaded chicken tenders. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 5: Add Marinara and Cheese
Remove from oven and spoon marinara sauce over each tender. Sprinkle additional parmesan cheese on top. Return to oven and bake an additional 5 minutes until cheese is melted.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Transfer to plates and drizzle with fresh basil or 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: Opt for fresh herbs and high-quality cheese for enhanced flavors.
- Don’t Overcrowd The Baking Sheet: Give enough space between each tender to ensure they bake evenly and become crispier.
- Experiment With Seasoning: Feel free to add garlic powder or Italian seasoning to breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
Mistakes to avoid
- Skipping the Marinade: One common mistake is not marinating the chicken tenders before cooking. A good marinade adds flavor and helps tenderize the meat. If you skip this step, your Chicken Tenders Parmesan may end up tasting bland. Aim for at least 30 minutes of marinating time, or even longer for deeper flavor. Use herbs, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice to enhance the taste.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Another mistake is overcooking the chicken tenders. This can result in dry meat that lacks flavor and texture. Keep an eye on the cooking time; chicken tenders usually cook quickly, taking around 3-4 minutes per side when pan-frying or baking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they are perfectly cooked without being dried out.
- Neglecting the Cheese Quality: Using low-quality cheese can ruin your Chicken Tenders Parmesan. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-packaged shredded cheese. Fresh cheese melts better and has a stronger flavor, which will elevate your dish significantly. Don’t skimp on quality; it makes a noticeable difference in taste and texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Chicken Tenders Parmesan is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Garlic Bread: Serve warm, toasted garlic bread on the side for a delightful crunch that complements the tender chicken.
- Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad adds a crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the Chicken Tenders Parmesan, enhancing your meal experience.
- Pasta Marinara: Pairing it with spaghetti or penne in marinara sauce creates a classic Italian comfort dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
FAQs
What are Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
Chicken Tenders Parmesan are breaded and fried chicken tenders topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This dish combines the crispy texture of chicken tenders with the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. You can enjoy them as an appetizer or a main course. They are easy to prepare and perfect for both casual family dinners and special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, savory sauce, and gooey cheese makes them a favorite among both kids and adults.
How can I make Chicken Tenders Parmesan healthier?
To make Chicken Tenders Parmesan healthier, you can bake them instead of frying. Use whole-grain breadcrumbs for added fiber and nutrients. Also, consider using low-fat cheese or a reduced-sugar marinara sauce. You can serve them with a side of steamed vegetables or a light salad to create a balanced meal without sacrificing flavor. These modifications help you enjoy this delicious dish while keeping your health in check.
Can I freeze Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Tenders Parmesan. To do this, allow the cooked chicken tenders to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the oven until heated through. This method keeps your chicken tenders crispy while ensuring they remain flavorful after freezing.
What dips pair well with Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
Chicken Tenders Parmesan pairs well with various dips that enhance its flavors. Marinara sauce is a classic choice for dipping, offering a tangy complement to the cheesy goodness. Additionally, garlic aioli or ranch dressing can provide a creamy contrast that many find irresistible. If you’re feeling adventurous, try serving them with spicy buffalo sauce for an added kick that elevates this dish to new heights.
Conclusion for Chicken Tenders Parmesan
In summary, Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a delicious blend of crispy chicken, savory marinara sauce, and melted cheese that everyone loves. With easy serving suggestions like garlic bread or Caesar salad, it fits into any meal plan perfectly. Healthier options are available for those who wish to enjoy this dish guilt-free by baking rather than frying and using whole-grain breadcrumbs. Freezing leftovers allows you to savor this comfort food anytime you crave it. Overall, this dish is not only simple to prepare but also guarantees satisfaction at any gathering or family dinner.
Chicken Tenders Parmesan
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a mouthwatering dish that brings together the satisfying crunch of perfectly baked chicken tenders with the rich flavors of marinara sauce and gooey melted parmesan cheese. This easy-to-follow recipe allows you to whip up a delightful meal in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. The seasoned breadcrumbs create a crispy coating that locks in the juiciness of the tender chicken, while the warm marinara adds a comforting touch. Whether served alongside garlic bread or a fresh Caesar salad, this dish promises to be a hit with both kids and adults alike. Enjoy this comforting favorite that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- Olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour mixed with salt and pepper, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan.
- Dip each chicken strip into the flour, then into the eggs, followed by the breadcrumb mixture. Place on the baking sheet.
- Drizzle olive oil over the breaded chicken tenders and bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
- Spoon marinara sauce over each tender, sprinkle more Parmesan cheese on top, and return to the oven for an additional 5 minutes until melted.
- Serve warm, garnished as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tenders (120g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
