Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders feature a crunchy cracker coating, savory Parmesan cheese, and flavorful spices, making them a delicious and satisfying dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oven to 400°F. Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and coat with nonstick spray.
- In a shallow bowl, beat the egg lightly with a fork.
- In another shallow bowl, melt the butter.
- Mix crushed crackers, paprika, pepper, and salt on a sheet of wax paper.
- Spread Parmesan cheese on another sheet.
- Dip chicken tenders in the beaten egg, then coat with the cracker mixture.
- Dip one side of each tender in melted butter, then press into Parmesan cheese to coat that side.
- Place the tenders cheese side up on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until tenders are golden and cooked through.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding garlic powder or Italian seasoning to the cracker mixture. For a lighter option, substitute crushed whole grain crackers or panko breadcrumbs for the Ritz crackers. If you need a gluten-free alternative, use gluten-free crackers or almond flour. Adjust the seasoning to your taste by increasing the paprika or adding cayenne for heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these crispy Parmesan chicken tenders with a side of honey mustard or marinara sauce for dipping. They pair perfectly with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving with mashed potatoes or a side of Cheesy Hash Brown Casserole for a comforting combination. These tenders also make a great addition to a chicken salad or sandwich.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 375°F for about 10 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. For longer storage, freeze cooked tenders for up to 2 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders contains roughly 2725 calories, with 53g protein, 313g carbohydrates, and 140g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (136% of the Daily Value), protein (105% of the Daily Value), and calcium (63% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts cut into strips. Just ensure they are of even thickness for uniform cooking. Bake them for a few extra minutes, checking for doneness until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you don't have Parmesan cheese, you can substitute with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. Alternatively, nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option that still provides a cheesy taste.
Can I bake these tenders in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 400°F and cook the chicken tenders for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method will yield a crispy texture similar to baking, while also reducing cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).