- Prepare the Breading Station:
- Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- In a second dish, whisk the eggs and milk together.
- In a third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
- Heat the Oil:
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat (approximately 350°F/175°C).
- Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped chives and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces (e.g., honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo).
Tips:
- For a healthier version, bake the tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use an air fryer for a crispy texture with less oil—cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
These chicken tenders are best enjoyed fresh but can also be reheated for a quick and easy meal. Bon appétit!
Tips
To achieve perfectly crispy Parmesan chicken tenders, start by using panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan for the coating.
Panko creates a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
For extra crispiness, toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet with a touch of oil before coating the chicken.
This step ensures a golden-brown crust that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
When breading the tenders, use a three-step method: dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
Press the coating gently onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
Bake the tenders on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet for even heat distribution, or air fry them for a quicker, equally crispy alternative.
Variations
For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
You can also mix in Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley and thyme for an aromatic twist.
Using garlic powder or onion powder in the coating adds another layer of flavor that complements the Parmesan beautifully.
For a gluten-free alternative, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
If you prefer a dairy-free option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
Experiment with dipping sauces like marinara, honey mustard, or ranch to match different flavor profiles.
Conclusion
Crispy Parmesan chicken tenders are a deliciously satisfying dish that strikes the perfect balance between savory, cheesy flavors and a crunchy texture.
They’re easy to prepare and make for a versatile meal or snack that both kids and adults will love. With simple tips and techniques, you can replicate that restaurant-quality crispiness right in your kitchen.
Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try creative variations, these chicken tenders are bound to become a favorite in your household.
Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a party spread, and enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.
