If there’s one recipe that’s guaranteed to make your dinner table a happier place, it’s Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders! I’m so excited you’re here because this easy, family-favorite recipe brings crispy, cheesy comfort food straight from the oven—no deep frying needed. Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders deliver the best golden crunch and juicy bite, and they’re lighter and healthier without sacrificing an ounce of flavor!
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What Are Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are tender strips of chicken coated in a savory, cheesy Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, then baked to golden perfection.
No messy frying, no heavy greasiness—just pure crispy-on-the-outside, juicy-on-the-inside magic.
They’re quick, easy, and so good you’ll want to make a double batch!
Reasons to Love These Crispy Chicken Tenders
- Oven-Baked, Not Fried: Lightened-up without losing any crunch.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults both devour them!
- Crispy + Cheesy: That Parmesan crust is everything.
- Great for Meal Prep: Reheat beautifully for quick lunches or dinners.
- Customizable: Easy to switch up seasonings or dipping sauces.
Honestly? They’re almost too easy—and definitely too good to miss. 🧡
What Do Parmesan Chicken Tenders Taste Like?
Imagine a golden-brown crust that’s cheesy, savory, and ultra-crunchy, giving way to juicy, flavorful chicken.
The Parmesan adds that perfect nutty, salty kick, while the baked breadcrumbs bring the satisfying crisp you crave—without the fryer.
Every bite is tender, crispy, cheesy, and so totally comforting.
(And the smell while they bake? Absolutely mouthwatering!)
Healthier Comfort Food Benefits
- Lower in Fat: Thanks to baking instead of frying.
- High Protein: Great for fueling active days.
- Simple Ingredients: Pantry staples + real cheese = total win.
- Portion Control: Easy to serve exactly how much you need.
Healthy-ish comfort food? Yes, please!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s your cozy shopping list:
- 1½ pounds chicken tenders (or chicken breasts sliced into strips)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Tools You’ll Need
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Mixing bowls
- Tongs
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Simple tools = big-time crispy success!
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
Make them even more fun with:
- Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper for a kick!
- Different Cheeses: Mix in sharp cheddar or Romano with the Parmesan.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
Endless possibilities for flavor greatness!
How to Make Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Here’s the easy method:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- In a shallow bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- Dip each chicken tender in the egg mixture, then coat fully in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
- Place coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
- Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for extra crispness.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping once halfway, until crispy, golden, and cooked through.
✨ Your kitchen will smell unbelievable while they bake! ✨
What to Serve With Parmesan Chicken Tenders
These tenders are amazing with classic sides or cozy favorites like:
- Ranch, honey mustard, or marinara sauce for dipping
- A fresh green salad
- Crispy fries or roasted veggies
- Cozy up your plate with Creamy Chicken and Rice for the ultimate comfort meal
- Or go all out and pair with a Gourmet Steak Dinner for an epic feast!
- Want a zesty twist? Try them with a side of Buffalo Ranch Chicken Sandwich sliders!
So many cozy, delicious options to make it a meal to remember!
Tips for the Best Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- Use panko breadcrumbs: They give the best crunch.
- Spray lightly: Helps get that beautiful golden finish.
- Space them out: Don’t crowd the baking sheet!
- Flip halfway: Both sides get golden and crispy.
Small tricks = big crispy wins. 🧡
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Crisp them back up in a 375°F oven or air fryer.
- Freeze: Freeze cooked tenders for up to 2 months and reheat straight from frozen!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I air fry these chicken tenders?
Definitely! Air fry at 400°F for about 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes—bread them ahead and refrigerate up to 4 hours before baking.
What dipping sauces go best?
Ranch, buffalo sauce, barbecue sauce, or even a garlic aioli are all perfect!
Conclusion: Why You’ll Love Making Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the perfect easy comfort food—crispy, cheesy, juicy, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, meal prep, or casual weekend bites, they deliver cozy, cheesy happiness every time! 🍗✨
Still hungry for more cozy recipes? You’ll also love:
💬 Tried this recipe? I would love to see your crispy creations! Don’t forget to leave a review and share them on Pinterest! Let’s celebrate your kitchen wins together!
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Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food made lighter! Tender chicken strips coated in a cheesy Parmesan breadcrumb crust, then baked to golden perfection. No frying needed—just big crunch, juicy bites, and cheesy flavor in every forkful. Save this quick and cozy dinner recipe for your next family meal or meal prep day!
Ingredients
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1½ pounds chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
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1 cup panko breadcrumbs
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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2 large eggs
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2 tablespoons milk
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Olive oil spray or cooking spray
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray with oil.
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In a shallow bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
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In another bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
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Dip each chicken tender first into the egg mixture, then coat completely in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
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Place coated tenders onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece.
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Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray.
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Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden, crispy, and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
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Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces!
Notes
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For extra flavor, add a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
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Don’t overcrowd the pan—leave space for the tenders to crisp properly.
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If you want even crispier results, broil the tenders for the last 2 minutes.
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These reheat wonderfully in the oven or air fryer for that fresh-out-of-the-oven crunch!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Dinner, Chicken Recipes
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American Comfort Food
Keywords: Food With Chicken Recipes
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