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Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are not just a meal; they are an experience that brings families together around the dinner table, delights guests during game nights, and serves as a satisfying snack any day of the week. This dish combines the juicy tenderness of chicken with a delightful crispy coating, featuring the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese that appeals to both children and adults alike. Perfectly seasoned and beautifully crunchy, these chicken tenders are versatile enough to be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces or as a main course alongside your favorite sides.

Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Discover the joy of cooking with this simple and delicious recipe for Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders. Perfectly seasoned and tender, these tenders feature a crunchy Parmesan coating that will delight both kids and adults. Whether served as a snack, main course, or for a game night, they are versatile and easy to make with common pantry ingredients. Treat your family to a meal that brings everyone together and is bound to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the crispy goodness!

Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenderloins

1 cup buttermilk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tablespoon Italian seasoning

Cooking spray (or olive oil spray)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the buttermilk with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (preferably overnight) to tenderize and infuse flavor.

    Prepare the Coating: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In three separate shallow dishes, set up the breading station:

      - In the first dish, add the flour and a pinch of salt and pepper.

        - In the second dish, whisk the eggs until fully beaten.

          - In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.

            Coat the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the buttermilk and allow excess liquid to drip off. Dredge each tender in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it in the egg mixture, and finally coat it with the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

              Arrange and Spray: Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure they are spaced evenly. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or olive oil to help them achieve that golden, crispy finish.

                Bake the Tenders: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Halfway through baking, you can flip the tenders for even crispiness.

                  Serving Suggestions: Once cooked, remove from oven and let cool for a couple of minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as marinara, ranch, or honey mustard, and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 40 minutes | 4 servings