Description

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are oven-baked with a golden, crunchy coating and a juicy, flavorful center—perfect for game days, weeknight dinners, or cozy family lunches. I love making them with fresh garlic, real Parmesan cheese, and panko breadcrumbs for that signature crisp. This simple, reliable recipe works beautifully every time, with versions ranging from traditional garlic-parmesan to spicy cayenne-touched or buffalo-style twists. Also known as baked garlic tenders or oven-fried chicken strips, they can be stabilized with a dipping sauce or seasoned for variation. I’ve tested both crunchy and sauced versions—they’re delicious either way. Among chicken recipes, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders stand out for their incredible texture, crowd-pleasing flavor, and minimal mess. It absolutely deserves a permanent place in your go-to recipe list.

Ingredients

1.5 pounds chicken tenders

1 cup panko breadcrumbs

0.75 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 cloves garlic, minced

0.5 teaspoon garlic powder

0.25 teaspoon smoked paprika

0.5 teaspoon salt

0.25 teaspoon black pepper

0.5 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional)

1 tablespoon melted butter

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Lemon wedges, for serving

0.25 cup mayonnaise

0.25 cup sour cream

1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tablespoon chopped parsley

Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack over a baking sheet and spray it lightly with oil.

2. Prepare three shallow bowls: flour in one, beaten eggs in the second, and panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and melted butter in the third.

3. Season chicken tenders lightly with salt and pepper.

4. Dredge each chicken tender in flour, then dip in the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.

5. Place each coated tender on the prepared wire rack.

6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. While tenders bake, whisk together all dipping sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Let it rest in the fridge.

8. Once the tenders are done, remove from oven and let them sit for 5 minutes.

9. Serve warm, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges, with dipping sauce on the side.

Notes

Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and melting texture.

Panko breadcrumbs give the tenders their signature crunch—avoid substituting with regular crumbs.

Let the tenders rest after baking for a firmer, crunchier crust and easier serving.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
Calories: 410
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 730mg
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 11g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 125mg

Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, Baked Chicken Tenders, Crispy Chicken Strips