Are you looking for a delicious, easy-to-make chicken dish? Oven Fried Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders are the perfect solution! These crispy, cheesy chicken tenders are not only full of flavor but also healthier than traditional fried chicken. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can serve up a tasty meal that the whole family will love.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a great choice for many reasons. First, it gives you the crunch of fried chicken without all the oil. Second, using Parmesan cheese adds a delicious flavor, making these tenders extra special. Finally, they are quick to prepare and cook, making them ideal for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a variety of dips!
How to Make Oven Fried Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders
Making Oven Fried Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders is straightforward. Follow these simple steps and enjoy a delightful homemade dish!
Ingredients
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs ((Note 1))
- Olive oil spray
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese (store bought) (Note 2)
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise* (I use whole egg mayonnaise)
- 1½ tbsp dijon mustard* (or any other mustard of choice)
- 1 garlic clove, minced*
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- Salt & pepper
- 500 g / 1 lb chicken tenderloins (or chicken breast cut into ⅔” / 1.5cm thick slices, lengthwise)
- Oil spray
Directions
- Preheat oven to 200C/390F.
- Spread panko breadcrumbs on a baking tray. Spray lightly with oil. Bake for 3 to 5 minutes or until LIGHT golden.
- Scrape the baked breadcrumbs into a bowl. Add grated parmesan cheese and mix.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the batter ingredients with a fork. Add the chicken and mix to coat well.
- (Optional) Place a rack on the baking tray (Note 3).
- Using your left hand, pick up a piece of chicken and place it in the bowl with the breadcrumbs. Use your right hand to sprinkle breadcrumbs on top, pressing them to stick. Then, transfer the coated chicken to the baking tray. Repeat with the remaining pieces. Spray lightly with oil.
- Bake for 15 minutes for small tenders or 18 minutes for larger ones. Do not bake for more than 20 minutes, or the chicken will begin to lose its juiciness.
- Serve immediately with Ranch or Honey Mustard Dip, if desired (Note 4).
How to Serve Oven Fried Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders
These chicken tenders are best served hot right out of the oven. They make a great main dish and can be enjoyed with a side of veggies, salad, or your favorite dipping sauces. Ranch dressing or honey mustard are excellent choices to complement the crispy chicken.
How to Store Oven Fried Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 2 to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven for a few minutes until they are crispy again.
Tips to Make Oven Fried Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders
- Make sure to use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Do not overcrowd the baking tray. Leave space between the pieces for even cooking.
- Customize the spices! Add garlic powder, paprika, or Italian herbs to the breadcrumbs for more flavor.
Variation
You can also try using different types of cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, for a twist on the flavor. Additionally, if you’re looking for a spicier version, mix in some cayenne pepper with the breadcrumbs.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?
Yes! You can cut chicken breasts into thick slices to make your own tenders.
Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked, breaded chicken tenders. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer bag for longer storage.
What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?
Ranch dressing, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo are all great options to serve with your chicken tenders!
Enjoy making and sharing these delicious Oven Fried Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders with friends and family!
Oven Fried Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs For extra crunch
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese Store bought
Batter Mix
- 1 ea egg
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise Whole egg mayonnaise recommended
- 1 ½ tbsp dijon mustard Or any mustard of choice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- Salt & pepper To taste
Chicken
- 500 g chicken tenderloins Alternatively, use chicken breast cut into 2/3″ thickness
Oil
- Olive oil spray For baking
- Oil spray To lightly coat chicken
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat oven to 200C/390F.
- Spread panko breadcrumbs on a baking tray and spray lightly with oil.
- Bake breadcrumbs for 3 to 5 minutes or until LIGHT golden.
- Scrape the baked breadcrumbs into a bowl, add grated parmesan cheese, and mix.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the batter ingredients with a fork.
- Add the chicken to the batter and mix to coat well.
Coating
- Pick up a piece of chicken and place it in the bowl with the breadcrumbs.
- Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top using your other hand, pressing them to stick.
- Transfer the coated chicken to the baking tray and repeat with remaining pieces.
- Spray lightly with oil.
Baking
- Bake for 15 minutes for small tenders or 18 minutes for larger ones.
- Do not bake for more than 20 minutes.
Serving
- Serve immediately with your choice of Ranch or Honey Mustard Dip.
