Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders

suring they’re completely coated. Finally, coat the chicken tenders with the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick well.

4. Arrange on the Baking Sheet
   Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. For extra crispiness, lightly spray the top of each chicken tender with olive oil spray. This helps promote a golden brown, crispy crust.
5. Bake to Perfection
   Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and the breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy. You can check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer—chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat.
6. Serve and Enjoy
   Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara, ranch, or a tangy honey mustard.

Serving Suggestions:
These Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders are perfect as a main dish or an appetizer! Here are a few ideas to serve them with:

Crispy Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: For a complete meal, serve your chicken tenders with a side of crispy fries or sweet potato fries.
Salad: Pair these tenders with a refreshing green salad, such as a Caesar salad or a simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette, for a lighter option.
Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies, like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini, make a delicious and healthy side to complement the tenders.
Pasta: These tenders are a great addition to a plate of pasta with marinara sauce or even served on top of a creamy alfredo pasta.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Healthier Alternative: These tenders are baked, not fried, making them a healthier option while still giving you the crispy texture and delicious flavor you crave.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes. It’s the perfect choice for busy nights when you need a satisfying dish in a pinch.
Kid-Friendly: These tenders are always a hit with kids. The crispy, cheesy coating is irresistible, and they pair well with a variety of dipping sauces that children love.
Versatile: Whether you serve them as a main dish, appetizer, or snack, these chicken tenders are versatile enough to suit any occasion.
Customizable: You can tweak the seasoning to your liking, add a little heat with some red pepper flakes, or experiment with different dipping sauces. These tenders are incredibly adaptable to suit your preferences.
Tips and Variations:
Add Some Spice: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.
Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For an even crunchier texture, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. They create an extra-crispy coating!
Parmesan Variations: If you prefer a different type of cheese, you can substitute some of the Parmesan with shredded mozzarella for a gooier texture.
Air Fryer Option: If you have an air fryer, you can also make these chicken tenders in it! Simply preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook the tenders for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Conclusion:
These Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a fantastic, healthier alternative to the deep-fried version, delivering all the crispy, cheesy goodness you love without the extra oil. They’re easy to make, packed with flavor, and versatile enough for any meal occasion—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next party. Try these out today and discover just how delicious and satisfying baked chicken tenders can be!