Craving a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave your taste buds begging for more? Look no further than these mouthwatering Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders. With a perfect blend of savory garlic and tangy parmesan, these crispy, golden-brown tenders are sure to be a hit at any dinner table. Whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends or simply looking to indulge in a flavorful homemade dish, this recipe has got you covered. Get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients
Chicken tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garlic cloves
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup finely shredded parmesan cheese
Breadcrumbs
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- Pinch of salt
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Marinating the Chicken
Preparing the Chicken Tenders
To start, rinse the chicken tenders and pat them dry with a paper towel. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Set the seasoned tenders aside while you prepare the garlic marinade.
Making the Garlic Marinade
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic cloves with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well to incorporate the flavors. This garlic marinade will add a delicious kick to the chicken tenders.
Marinating the Chicken
Place the chicken tenders in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the garlic marinade over the tenders, making sure they are coated evenly. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense flavor.
Coating the Chicken
Preparing the Parmesan Coating
In a shallow bowl or dish, combine the grated parmesan cheese, finely shredded parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Coating the Chicken Tenders
Take each marinated chicken tender and dip it into the parmesan coating, pressing it firmly to adhere the mixture to the chicken. Flip the tender and repeat the process, making sure both sides are fully coated. Set the coated tenders aside on a plate or wire rack until you are ready to bake them.
Pressing the Coating onto the Chicken
Before baking, gently press the parmesan coating onto the chicken tenders to ensure that it sticks well. This will result in a crispy and flavorful outer layer when the chicken is baked.
Baking the Chicken
Preheating the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup.
Placing the Chicken on a Baking Sheet
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring there is some space between each tender for even cooking. Lightly spray or brush the tops of the tenders with cooking oil for added crispiness.
Baking the Chicken Tenders
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through. To determine doneness, insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of a tender, and it should register at least 165°F (74°C).
Making the Garlic Butter Sauce
Mincing the Garlic Cloves
Finely mince the garlic cloves, ensuring they are evenly chopped for a well-distributed garlic flavor in the sauce.
Melting the Butter
In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over low heat until fully melted. Stir occasionally to ensure even melting and prevent browning.
Combining the Garlic and Butter
Add the minced garlic, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt to the melted butter. Stir to combine all the ingredients and infuse the butter with the aromatic garlic flavor. Keep the garlic butter sauce warm on low heat until ready to serve.
Serving Suggestions
Pairing with a Dipping Sauce
Serve your garlic parmesan chicken tenders with a side of your favorite dipping sauce. Some popular options include honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or buffalo sauce. The choice is yours, so feel free to get creative and find a sauce that perfectly complements the flavors of the chicken tenders.
Serving with a Side Dish
Garlic parmesan chicken tenders can be enjoyed as a main dish or served as part of a larger meal. Consider pairing them with a colorful vegetable medley, a fresh salad, or even some crispy french fries for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Garnishing the Chicken Tenders
For a final touch, sprinkle the chicken tenders with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a hint of freshness and a pop of green color, making your dish visually appealing and inviting.
Tips and Variations
Adding Herbs and Spices to the Coating
Feel free to experiment with additional herbs and spices to enhance the flavors of your garlic parmesan chicken tenders. Consider adding dried oregano, basil, or thyme to the coating mixture for a Mediterranean twist. You can also incorporate some red pepper flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
Using Different Types of Breadcrumbs
If you want to change up the texture and taste of the coating, try using different types of breadcrumbs. Panko breadcrumbs will add an extra crunch, while Italian breadcrumbs will infuse the chicken with additional herbs and spices.
Grilling Instead of Baking
If you prefer a smoky and charred flavor, you can adapt this recipe for grilling. Simply preheat your grill to medium-high heat and place the coated chicken tenders on clean, oiled grates. Grill for approximately 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Chicken Tenders?
If you have frozen chicken tenders on hand, you can thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating and coating them according to the recipe. However, it’s important to note that the texture and juiciness of the tenders may differ slightly from fresh ones.
How Long Can I Marinate the Chicken?
You can marinate the chicken tenders for a minimum of 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. However, avoid marinating them for more than 4 hours, as the acidic garlic marinade may start to break down the texture of the chicken.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
While it’s best to enjoy the chicken tenders fresh out of the oven for optimal taste and texture, you can prepare them ahead of time with some minor adjustments. After coating the chicken tenders, place them on a baking sheet and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, allow the tenders to come to room temperature before placing them in the preheated oven.
Conclusion
With this recipe, you can easily create delicious and flavorful garlic parmesan chicken tenders. From marinating the chicken to creating a crispy parmesan coating, every step contributes to a mouthwatering final result. Whether served as a main dish or alongside your favorite dipping sauce, these chicken tenders are sure to impress. Enjoy the delightful combination of garlic, parmesan, and tender chicken, creating a meal that will leave you wanting more.