Get ready to transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have everyone at the table begging for seconds! These Garlic Parmesan Chicken Fingers are not just another boring protein – they're a crispy, cheesy sensation that combines the rich flavors of Parmesan, the aromatic punch of garlic, and perfectly cooked chicken tenders. Whether you're looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, a kid-friendly meal, or a delicious weeknight dinner, this recipe is about to become your new go-to favorite that promises restaurant-quality taste right from your own kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 egg, beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a shallow mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Mix thoroughly to distribute the flavors evenly.
- In a separate bowl, beat the egg until well blended. This will help the breadcrumb mixture adhere to the chicken tenders.
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps the breading stick better.
- Dip each chicken tender first into the beaten egg, ensuring it's completely coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to make sure the coating adheres well.
- Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece to ensure even cooking and crispy edges.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, turning the tenders halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and the coating to set.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli.
Tips
- Pat the chicken tenders completely dry before breading to ensure maximum crispiness and better coating adhesion.
- For extra flavor, let the breadcrumb mixture sit for 5-10 minutes before coating to allow the garlic to release its full aroma.
- Use fresh grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-packaged for a more intense, authentic flavor.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet – give each chicken tender space to ensure crispy edges and even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to help retain moisture and allow the coating to set perfectly.
- Experiment with different dipping sauces like marinara, ranch, or garlic aioli to find your perfect pairing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 110mg
