Did you know that over 70% of Americans enjoy chicken tenders as a favorite comfort food? With their crispy texture and rich flavor, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders stand out as a versatile option for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this recipe guarantees satisfaction. You might be wondering how to achieve that perfect balance of garlic and parmesan while keeping the tenders juicy. Let's explore the details that make this dish a crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
Whether you're looking to impress guests at a dinner party or simply satisfy your family on a weeknight, you'll love this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe.
It combines a crispy exterior with a juicy, tender inside, making it a favorite for all ages. The flavor profile bursts with garlic and parmesan, providing a gourmet touch to a simple dish.
This recipe is versatile enough for various occasions, whether it's a casual family meal or an elegant gathering. Plus, the cooking methods—baking, deep frying, or air frying—allow you to choose what suits your lifestyle best.
With easy-to-follow steps and key ingredients, you'll be serving up a comfort food classic in no time. Enjoy the deliciousness!
History
The love for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders can be traced back to the fusion of Italian and American culinary traditions. This dish combines the rich, savory flavors of garlic and parmesan cheese, popular in Italian cuisine, with the American preference for fried chicken.
As comfort food, chicken tenders gained popularity in the U.S. during the late 20th century, particularly in casual dining and fast-food restaurants. Over time, various recipes emerged, incorporating different spices and cooking methods.
Today, you can find Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders at home kitchens and upscale restaurants alike. This versatility showcases how culinary influences can evolve while still appealing to a wide audience, making it a beloved dish for many occasions.
Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are an irresistible treat that combines the comforting flavors of garlic and parmesan with crispy, golden chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these tenders appeal to both kids and adults alike.
With a simple breading method and a few key ingredients, you can create a dish that feels gourmet yet is easy to prepare at home. To get started, you'll need to gather your ingredients and set up your workspace. The process is straightforward, and with a little preparation, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Whether you choose to deep fry, bake, or air fry your chicken tenders, this recipe is designed to deliver a satisfying crunch and mouthwatering flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders or chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Optional dipping sauces (ranch, marinara, etc.)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Begin by patting the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to guarantee the breading adheres well.
2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, making sure to coat all sides evenly.
3. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes. In the first dish, combine the flour with additional salt and pepper.
4. In the second dish, beat the eggs until well combined. In the third dish, mix the breadcrumbs with the grated parmesan cheese.
5. Take each seasoned chicken tender and first dredge it in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
6. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off before transferring it to the breadcrumb mixture.
7. Press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to guarantee they stick well.
8. Once all the chicken tenders are breaded, let them rest for 10-15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and helps the breading adhere during cooking.
9. Choose your cooking method:
- For deep frying, heat oil in a large pot or deep fryer to 375°F and fry the chicken tenders for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- For baking, preheat your oven to 375°F and place the tenders on a lined baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until crispy and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- For air frying, preheat the air fryer to 375°F and cook the tenders in a single layer for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
10. Once cooked, remove the chicken tenders from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
11. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
To guarantee the best results with your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, remember to keep your oil at the correct temperature for frying to avoid sogginess.
If baking or air frying, don't overcrowd the pan or basket, as this can lead to uneven cooking. Feel free to experiment with different dipping sauces and side dishes to complement the flavors of the chicken tenders!
Final Thoughts
While you might think gourmet flavors require complicated techniques, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders prove otherwise. This dish combines simple ingredients with easy preparation steps, making it perfect for any cook.
You can choose between frying, baking, or air frying, depending on your preference for crispiness and health. The garlic and parmesan deliver a savory punch that everyone will love, whether you're serving them for a family dinner or a party.
Don't forget to pair them with your favorite dipping sauces and side dishes to elevate the meal. With their versatility and comfort food appeal, these chicken tenders can easily become a staple in your kitchen.
Enjoy making them, and savor every bite!
FAQ
Wondering how to make the perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders? First, verify your chicken is patted dry; this helps the breading stick better.
For seasoning, mix salt, pepper, and garlic powder. When breading, set up three shallow dishes: one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs, and the last with breadcrumbs mixed with grated parmesan.
After coating the chicken, let it rest for 10-15 minutes to absorb flavors. You can cook these tenders by deep frying, baking, or air frying at 375°F until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
For serving, pair them with your favorite dipping sauces and sides like salads or roasted veggies. Enjoy your delicious, crispy tenders at any occasion!