Chicken Tenders Parmesan

If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game without spending hours in the kitchen, look no further than Chicken Tenders Parmesan. This dish combines the beloved crunch of chicken tenders with the rich, comforting flavors of marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. It’s the perfect weeknight meal that the whole family will love, and it comes together in no time.

Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a delightful twist on a classic, making it an ideal choice for those cozy nights at home or even as a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. Ready to dive into this delicious, cheesy, and crispy recipe? Let’s get started!

Why It Deserves a Spot

Chicken Tenders Parmesan brings together all the elements of comfort food: crispy textures, savory flavors, and cheesy goodness. It’s not just easy to make; it’s also a fantastic way to enjoy a meal that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Plus, the combination of tender chicken with rich marinara sauce and melted cheese is simply irresistible. This dish deserves a spot in your meal rotation for its sheer deliciousness and versatility.

What Goes In

To make this Chicken Tenders Parmesan, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 12 chicken tenders (1 1/4 lbs)
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (1/2 gets tossed)
• Olive oil spray
• 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped basil leaves, for garnish

With these simple ingredients, you can create a meal that feels fancy yet remains straightforward to prepare.

Appliances & Accessories

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the following appliances and accessories:

• Oven: For baking the chicken tenders to perfection.
• Baking sheet: A must-have for laying out the chicken tenders.
• Mixing bowls: For combining the egg and breadcrumbs.
• Cooking spray: To ensure the tenders don’t stick.
• Serving platter: For presenting your beautifully garnished Chicken Tenders Parmesan.

Having these tools ready will streamline your cooking experience, making it enjoyable and efficient.

Chicken Tenders Parmesan Cooking Guide

Ready to whip up some Chicken Tenders Parmesan? Follow these easy steps:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial for achieving that crispy texture on your chicken tenders.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, beat one egg and add the kosher salt. Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, place the seasoned breadcrumbs. Take the egg-coated chicken tenders and dredge them in the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good coating. Remember to save half of the breadcrumbs for later!

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with olive oil. Place the coated chicken tenders on the sheet, ensuring they are spaced out for even cooking.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken

Spray the tops of the chicken tenders with a little more olive oil spray. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip them halfway for an even crisp.

Step 6: Add the Marinara and Cheese

Once the chicken tenders are baked, remove them from the oven. Spoon marinara sauce over each tender and sprinkle with mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 7: Broil for Extra Crispiness

Return the baking sheet to the oven and set it to broil. Broil for about 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove the Chicken Tenders Parmesan from the oven and let them cool slightly. Garnish with chopped basil leaves before serving. Enjoy your delicious chicken tenders with a side of pasta, salad, or your favorite vegetables!

Make It Your Way

The beauty of Chicken Tenders Parmesan lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences:

• Add spices: Incorporate garlic powder, paprika, or Italian seasoning into the breadcrumbs for an extra flavor kick.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese such as provolone or even a dairy-free alternative.
• Serve it differently: Instead of marinara, try using pesto for a vibrant twist.
• Make it a wrap: Use the chicken tenders in a wrap with fresh veggies and a drizzle of ranch dressing.

Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own!

Chef’s Notes

• For the crispiest texture, ensure the chicken tenders are patted dry before coating them.
• If you prefer a healthier option, try baking the chicken tenders instead of frying them.
• Using homemade marinara sauce can elevate the dish even further. Check out recipes for Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan for inspiration.
• For a little extra zest, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the cheese before broiling.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat your Chicken Tenders Parmesan:

• Store: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze the cooked chicken tenders in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 10-15 minutes. This will help retain their crispiness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breasts into strips to achieve a similar size and cooking time as the tenders.

What can I serve with Chicken Tenders Parmesan?

This dish pairs wonderfully with pasta, a fresh garden salad, or even some Hot Honey Brussels Sprouts With Parmesan Crumbs for a delightful side.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chicken tenders and coat them in breadcrumbs ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Certainly! Chicken Tenders Parmesan is great for meal prep. You can cook a batch ahead of time and portion it out for quick meals throughout the week.

Weekend Projects

If you’re inspired to create more delicious chicken dishes, consider these weekend projects:

• Crispy Air Fryer Chicken Tenders – A healthier take on the classic chicken tender.
• Try your hand at homemade Instant Pot Chicken Parmesan for a quick and satisfying meal.

Wrap-Up

Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a delightful blend of crispy, cheesy, and savory goodness that will quickly become a favorite in your household. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and potential for customization, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family.

So, grab your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a plate of Chicken Tenders Parmesan that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

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