Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are crispy, golden, and full of flavor. Tossed in a rich garlic parmesan butter, these chicken tenders are both easy to make and delicious. Whether you choose to make them in the air fryer or bake them in the oven, they are a perfect weeknight dinner or a great addition to any gathering.

Full Recipe: 

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tbsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp pepper

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup all-purpose flour

• 2 tbsp butter, melted

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C).

2. In one bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. In another bowl, whisk the eggs.

4. Dredge the chicken tenders in flour, dip in the egg wash, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure they stick.

5. If baking: Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and drizzle with olive oil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

6. If using the air fryer: Arrange the tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer and cook for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

7. While the tenders cook, prepare the garlic parmesan butter by melting butter in a small pan. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

8. Once the chicken tenders are cooked, toss them in the garlic parmesan butter until well-coated.

9. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Nutrients

Each serving of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders (about 4 tenders) contains:

• Calories: 300 kcal

• Protein: 26g

• Carbohydrates: 12g

  • Dietary Fiber: 1g

  • Sugars: 2g

• Fat: 18g

  • Saturated Fat: 7g

• Cholesterol: 140mg

• Sodium: 600mg

• Potassium: 350mg

• Vitamin A: 10% DV

• Vitamin C: 2% DV

• Calcium: 15% DV

• Iron: 10% DV

The Key Ingredients that Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Irresistible

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders shine due to their simple yet flavorful ingredients. The chicken tenders themselves, being tender and juicy, provide the perfect base for the crispy breading. Breadcrumbs, especially panko, are a great choice for achieving that extra-crispy exterior. The addition of grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture helps provide a savory, umami-rich flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.

Garlic powder and onion powder give these tenders a depth of flavor, enhancing the overall savory profile. Salt and pepper round out the seasoning, ensuring the tenders are well-balanced. Meanwhile, the garlic Parmesan butter, made from butter, fresh garlic, and Parmesan cheese, creates a sauce that’s both rich and fragrant, enveloping the tenders in a deliciously indulgent coating.

Baked or Air Fried: The Best Cooking Methods

There are two primary ways to cook Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: baking and air frying. Each method has its advantages, so the choice depends on your available equipment and preference for convenience or texture.

Baking the chicken tenders in the oven at 400°F (200°C) ensures a golden, crispy finish without the need for excessive oil. The tenders bake on a parchment-lined sheet, which not only prevents sticking but also helps them crisp up evenly. The process of flipping the tenders halfway through ensures that they cook evenly on both sides, providing that perfect golden crust.

Alternatively, using an air fryer to cook these tenders offers a slightly quicker method. At 375°F (190°C), the air fryer works by circulating hot air around the chicken, crisping up the exterior while maintaining a juicy interior. Air frying is a great option for those who want a healthier alternative with less oil, as it still achieves a crispy result without deep-frying. The air fryer also cooks the tenders more quickly than the oven, reducing cooking time to just 10-12 minutes.

A Flavorful Garlic Parmesan Butter Coating

The star of this recipe is undoubtedly the garlic Parmesan butter that coats the chicken tenders once they’re cooked. This sauce is incredibly simple to make, yet it adds an unmistakable burst of flavor. Butter is melted in a small pan, and minced garlic is sautéed until it becomes fragrant. The garlic infuses the butter with its aromatic essence, creating a luscious, flavorful base. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is then stirred in, enhancing the richness of the sauce with its salty, umami notes.

Once the tenders are baked or air-fried to crispy perfection, they are tossed in the garlic Parmesan butter, ensuring each tender is coated in this deliciously indulgent sauce. The butter coats the tenders in a glossy, flavorful layer, making each bite a savory delight. This garlic Parmesan butter not only adds flavor but also contributes a lovely richness that elevates the chicken tenders to an entirely new level.

Customization and Variations for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit different tastes and preferences. For those who prefer a spicier version, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter can introduce a nice heat that contrasts well with the rich Parmesan flavor. Alternatively, you could opt for adding a touch of lemon zest or a squeeze of lemon juice to the butter sauce to brighten the dish and add a refreshing, tangy element.

For those following a gluten-free diet, a simple swap of gluten-free breadcrumbs can make this recipe completely gluten-free while still achieving that crispy, crunchy texture. The recipe can also be modified for those who are dairy-free by using dairy-free butter and vegan Parmesan cheese alternatives.

If you prefer a different cheese, you could experiment with Asiago, Romano, or even cheddar for a unique twist on the classic garlic Parmesan flavor. Additionally, if you enjoy a more herbal flavor profile, fresh or dried thyme, oregano, or rosemary can be added to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.

A Healthier Twist on Chicken Tenders

Chicken tenders are often associated with deep-frying, which can add unnecessary calories and fat to the dish. However, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders can be a much healthier alternative without sacrificing flavor. By baking or air frying the tenders, you can enjoy the crispy texture without the excess oil. The use of butter in the garlic Parmesan coating adds richness, but it’s used sparingly, making it a more controlled indulgence.

For those looking to reduce fat content even further, the butter can be replaced with olive oil or a lower-fat butter substitute. This makes the dish lighter while still maintaining the essential flavor profile. The use of chicken tenders instead of chicken breasts or thighs also contributes to the lean nature of the dish, offering a protein-packed meal without being overly greasy.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are incredibly versatile when it comes to pairing. They can be served with a variety of side dishes, from crisp salads to creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, pair the tenders with a fresh vegetable medley or roasted Brussels sprouts. You can also serve them alongside a tangy dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or even a spicy buffalo sauce, to add another layer of flavor.

For a more complete meal, serve the chicken tenders with a side of pasta or over a bed of greens to create a chicken Parmesan salad. The tenders can also be used in wraps or sandwiches, making them a great option for meal prep or for transforming leftovers into a new dish.

Why You’ll Love Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are loved for their simplicity, flavor, and versatility. The crispy breadcrumb coating combined with the rich garlic Parmesan butter creates a perfect contrast of textures and tastes. They can be easily customized to suit your preferences, whether you’re making them spicier, adding fresh herbs, or trying out different cheeses. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a fun appetizer, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a gathering, these chicken tenders are sure to impress.

With their health-conscious cooking methods, either baking or air frying, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious option for those who want to indulge in a flavorful treat without the guilt. The beauty of this dish lies in its balance—crispy, savory, and full of flavor—all in one bite-sized serving.

Conclusion: A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for Every Occasion

In conclusion, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders offer a delicious and convenient solution for a quick meal or appetizer. Their crispy texture and savory garlic Parmesan flavor make them a hit at any gathering. With the option to bake or air fry, you can choose the method that best suits your kitchen setup and dietary preferences. The simple yet flavorful ingredients and versatility of this dish ensure that it will remain a favorite in your recipe rotation for years to come. Whether you’re serving them for dinner or as part of a larger spread, these tenders are sure to satisfy your cravings and delight your guests.