Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders
There’s something undeniably comforting about chicken tenders. But what if you could enjoy them guilt-free without the mess of frying? Enter Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders. These beauties are oven-baked to perfection, offering a crunchy, flavorful exterior with a juicy, tender interior. Say goodbye to fast food cravings and hello to a delightful homemade meal!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re a fan of easy, delicious, and healthier meals, this recipe is for you. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, requires minimal cleanup, and delivers all the satisfying crunch of fried chicken tenders without the extra calories. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Nonstick spray
- Two mixing bowls
- Oven
- Pastry brush (optional for butter)
Ingredients
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- ½ cup cornflake crumbs
- 1 pound chicken tenders (about 10 pieces)
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Spray a baking sheet with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- In one bowl, pour the buttermilk. In another bowl, mix together the grated Parmesan cheese and cornflake crumbs.
- Soak the chicken tenders in the buttermilk for about 15 minutes. This helps keep them juicy.
- After soaking, dip each chicken tender into the cheese and crumb mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the tenders for added flavor and crispiness. Lightly sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12 minutes or until they are crispy, golden, and cooked through.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success
- Ensure your oven is fully preheated to achieve the perfect crispiness.
- For extra crunch, consider placing the tenders on a wire rack set over the baking sheet.
- Don’t skip the resting time in buttermilk for the juiciest tenders.
Additional Tips and Variations
- For a twist, add a teaspoon of garlic powder to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
- Prefer nuggets? Simply cut the chicken into smaller pieces and follow the same steps.
- Want to fry instead? Use a non-stick skillet and cook the tenders in a bit of oil until crispy.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)
These details can vary based on portion size and specific ingredient brands. However, baked tenders generally have fewer calories and fat compared to their fried counterparts, while still providing protein and some calcium from the Parmesan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- How can I make these into garlic Parmesan chicken nuggets? Cut the chicken into nugget-sized pieces and follow the recipe as directed.
- Do you have instructions for frying these chicken tenders? Yes, follow steps 1-5 for preparation, then fry in a skillet with oil over medium heat until cooked through.
- How can I get my chicken tenders crispier? Use a wire baking rack and finish with a few minutes under the broiler.
- My chicken tenders stuck to the pan. Any tips? Let them cool slightly and use a thin, metal spatula to carefully lift them from the pan.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy making and devouring these Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders as much as we do. They’re a delightful addition to any meal plan and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give them a try, and don’t forget to share your experience and any creative twists you add to the recipe!
