Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Featured in: Crispy & Crunchy Recipes

These chicken tenders feature a golden, crunchy coating made from panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and herbs. Dipped in an egg and mustard mixture, then brushed with garlic butter before baking to juicy perfection. A simple technique offers a crispy texture with rich, savory flavors. Perfect garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges, they make a satisfying main or snack for any occasion.

Updated on Wed, 26 Nov 2025 10:38:00 GMT
Golden-brown Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, crispy and ready for a satisfying family dinner. Save to Pinterest
Golden-brown Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, crispy and ready for a satisfying family dinner. | chomzo.com

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

This recipe has become a staple in our household because of its perfect balance of crispiness and rich flavor that everyone loves.

Ingredients

  • Chicken: 1 ½ lbs (680 g) chicken tenders
  • Breading: 1 cup (60 g) panko breadcrumbs 1/2 cup (40 g) grated Parmesan cheese 1 tsp dried Italian herbs 1/2 tsp paprika 1/2 tsp salt 1/4 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.
Oven-baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: imagine the aroma of garlic-infused, tender chicken. Save to Pinterest
Oven-baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders: imagine the aroma of garlic-infused, tender chicken. | chomzo.com

This dish brings joy to our family gatherings especially when shared with fresh lemon wedges and dipping sauces.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with fresh parsley and lemon wedges or pair with marinara ranch or honey mustard dipping sauces.

Variations

Substitute panko with regular breadcrumbs if preferred for a different texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to retain crispiness.

Enjoy a plate of flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, perfectly crispy and easy to prepare. Save to Pinterest
Enjoy a plate of flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, perfectly crispy and easy to prepare. | chomzo.com

This garlic Parmesan chicken tender recipe is quick simple and guaranteed to impress at any meal.

Common Questions

What type of cheese is used for the coating?

Grated Parmesan cheese provides a rich, savory flavor and helps create a crispy crust.

How can I make the chicken extra crispy?

For added crispiness, broil the chicken tenders for 1–2 minutes after baking.

Can I substitute panko breadcrumbs?

Yes, regular breadcrumbs can be used if panko is unavailable, though texture may be slightly different.

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 tenders.

Are there recommended dipping sauces to serve alongside?

Marinara, ranch, or honey mustard sauces complement these tenders well.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Crispy chicken tenders with a flavorful garlic and Parmesan crust, ideal for a quick family meal.

Prep Duration
15 minutes
Cook Duration
20 minutes
Time Needed
35 minutes
Author Maya Brooks


Skill Level Easy

Cuisine Type American

Makes 4 Portions

Dietary Info None specified

Required Ingredients

Chicken

01 1.5 lbs chicken tenders

Breading

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

Wet Mixture

01 2 large eggs
02 2 tbsp milk
03 1 tbsp Dijon mustard

Garlic Butter

01 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
02 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

For Serving

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

Preparation Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Combine dry breading ingredients: In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 03

Mix wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and Dijon mustard until fully combined.

Step 04

Prepare garlic butter: Stir melted butter and minced garlic together in a small bowl.

Step 05

Coat chicken tenders: Pat chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Dip each tender first into the egg mixture, then into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the coating.

Step 06

Arrange and apply garlic butter: Place the breaded tenders evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle or brush each tender with the garlic butter mixture.

Step 07

Bake until golden and cooked: Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 08

Serve garnished: Serve the tenders hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Tools Needed

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

Allergy Details

Look at the ingredient list to spot allergens. If you have questions, ask a healthcare provider.
  • Contains eggs, milk (Parmesan, butter), and wheat (panko breadcrumbs)
  • Check packaged breadcrumbs for possible nut traces

Nutrition Details (each portion)

These facts are just for your reference and not substitute for medical guidance.
  • Energy: 375
  • Fats: 17 g
  • Carbohydrates: 16 g
  • Proteins: 39 g