Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Featured in: Family Dinners

These chicken tenders are coated with a crunchy blend of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs, then brushed with a rich garlic butter mixture. Baked to a golden crisp, they offer a perfect balance of savory and aromatic flavors. Ready in just over 30 minutes, they make a convenient and satisfying option for family meals or gatherings. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges for a refreshing finish.

Updated on Wed, 26 Nov 2025 11:29:00 GMT
Golden-brown garlic Parmesan chicken tenders ready to serve, a flavorful family favorite. Save
Golden-brown garlic Parmesan chicken tenders ready to serve, a flavorful family favorite. | griddleglory.com

Crispy, flavorful chicken tenders coated in a savory garlic-Parmesan crust, perfect for a family dinner or appetizer.

This recipe has become a family favorite for weeknight dinners and always impresses guests when served as an appetizer.

Ingredients

  • Chicken: 1 ½ lbs (680 g) chicken tenders
  • Breading: 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs, ½ cup (40 g) grated Parmesan cheese, 1 tsp dried Italian herbs, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper
  • Wet Mixture: 2 large eggs, 2 tbsp (30 ml) milk, 1 tbsp (15 g) Dijon mustard
  • Garlic Butter: 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter melted, 3 cloves garlic finely minced
  • For Serving: Lemon wedges (optional), Fresh parsley chopped (optional)

Instructions

Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2:
In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese Italian herbs paprika salt and black pepper.
Step 3:
In a second bowl, whisk together the eggs milk and Dijon mustard.
Step 4:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and minced garlic.
Step 5:
Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Dip each tender first in the egg mixture, then in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere.
Step 6:
Arrange breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush each tender with the garlic butter mixture.
Step 7:
Bake for 18 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F/74°C).
Step 8:
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.
Crispy garlic Parmesan chicken tenders, perfectly coated and baked until tender and juicy. Save
Crispy garlic Parmesan chicken tenders, perfectly coated and baked until tender and juicy. | griddleglory.com

This recipe brings the family together, often sparking conversations and smiles around the dinner table.

Notes

Delicious with marinara, ranch, or honey mustard dipping sauces.

Required Tools

Baking sheet, Parchment paper or nonstick spray, Mixing bowls, Whisk, Pastry brush (optional), Tongs

Allergen Information

Contains Eggs, Milk (Parmesan butter), Wheat (panko breadcrumbs). If using packaged breadcrumbs, check for possible nut traces. Always verify ingredient labels for potential allergens.

Close-up of baked garlic Parmesan chicken tenders, showing the tempting, crunchy breading. Save
Close-up of baked garlic Parmesan chicken tenders, showing the tempting, crunchy breading. | griddleglory.com

These garlic Parmesan chicken tenders are the perfect balance of crispiness and flavor, making them a hit at any meal.

Cooking Questions

What type of cheese is best for the coating?

Grated Parmesan cheese adds a nutty and salty flavor that crisps up nicely in the breadcrumb coating.

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

Yes, regular breadcrumbs can be substituted, but panko provides a lighter and crispier texture.

How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy?

Pat the chicken dry before coating and avoid overbaking to keep the tenders juicy and tender.

What is the purpose of Dijon mustard in the wet mixture?

Dijon mustard adds a subtle tang and helps the coating adhere to the chicken better.

Can these be broiled for extra crispiness?

Yes, broiling for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking enhances the crispness without drying out the chicken.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Crispy chicken tenders with a garlic and Parmesan crust, baked golden and flavorful.

Prep duration
15 min
Cook duration
20 min
Complete duration
35 min
Created by Sarah Collins


Skill level Easy

Heritage American

Output 4 Portions

Nutrition specifications None specified

Components

Chicken

01 1.5 pounds chicken tenders

Breading

01 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
02 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
03 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
04 0.5 teaspoon paprika
05 0.5 teaspoon salt
06 0.25 teaspoon black pepper

Wet Mixture

01 2 large eggs
02 2 tablespoons milk
03 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

Garlic Butter

01 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
02 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Serving

01 Lemon wedges (optional)
02 Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Directions

Phase 01

Prepare oven and baking sheet: Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease.

Phase 02

Mix dry breading ingredients: Combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, dried Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a shallow bowl.

Phase 03

Combine wet ingredients: Whisk together eggs, milk, and Dijon mustard in a separate bowl until smooth.

Phase 04

Prepare garlic butter: Mix melted butter with minced garlic until fully combined.

Phase 05

Coat chicken tenders: Pat chicken tenders dry. Dip each tender into the wet mixture, then press into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.

Phase 06

Arrange and brush chicken: Place breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush garlic butter mixture over each piece.

Phase 07

Bake tenders: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until crust is golden and chicken reaches internal temperature of 165°F.

Phase 08

Serve: Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges.

Necessary tools

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or nonstick spray
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Pastry brush (optional)
  • Tongs

Allergy details

Review each component for potential allergens and seek professional healthcare advice if you're uncertain.
  • Contains eggs, milk (Parmesan cheese, butter), and wheat (panko breadcrumbs).
  • Check packaged breadcrumb labels for potential nut traces.

Nutritional information (per portion)

These values are provided as a general guide only and aren't intended to replace professional medical guidance.
  • Energy: 375
  • Fats: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Proteins: 39 g