Name: Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders; 1 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 large eggs; cooking spray or olive oil spray

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If you’re searching for a way to make chicken tenders shine without ever reaching for a deep fryer, you’re in the right place! Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are the perfect blend of juicy chicken with a savory, golden-brown crust that crunches with every bite. This recipe packs major flavor, thanks to a bold Parmesan-panko coating and a kiss of herbs and spices, yet it’s simple enough for a weeknight and impressive enough to thrill picky eaters and food-loving adults alike.

Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long grocery list to make fabulous chicken tenders—just the right combination of key ingredients, each playing their own delicious role. These everyday pantry staples lay the foundation for irresistible taste, crispiness, and color in every bite.

Chicken Tenders: Lean, tender strips of chicken are perfect for fast cooking and soak up all the flavor from the coating.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs guarantee a light-as-air crunch that regular breadcrumbs just can’t match.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: Delivers a bold nutty flavor and helps the crust turn golden and crisp in the oven.
Garlic Powder: Infuses the chicken with subtle, savory depth you’ll notice in every bite.
Paprika: Adds a gentle warmth and beautifully rich color to the crust.
Dried Oregano: Weaves in an herby freshness that balances the richness of the cheese and breadcrumbs.
Salt: Elevates all the flavors and ensures the seasoning shines through.
Black Pepper: Lends a little kick and finishes the seasoning blend perfectly.
Large Eggs: These help the crunchy coating stick, turning every tender into a crispy masterpiece.
Cooking Spray or Olive Oil Spray: Lightly coats each tender to turbo-charge the crunch factor as they bake.

How to Make Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Crank your oven up to 425°F (220°C) so it’s hot enough to crisp up those tenders beautifully. For easy cleanup and extra crunch, line a baking sheet with parchment paper, or better yet, place a wire rack on top of it. This wire rack lets heat circulate all around the chicken for the ultimate crispy result.

Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station

Grab two shallow bowls—one for the eggs and another for the crunchy coating. Whisk the eggs in one bowl until they’re smooth and a little frothy. In the second bowl, mix together your panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. This is your flavor-packed breading blend that makes Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders irresistible.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders

Working one at a time, dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture to moisten, shaking off excess. Then, dredge it in the panko-Parmesan mixture, pressing the coating onto the chicken so every inch gets a thick blanket of flavor and crunch. Lay the coated tenders in a single layer on your prepared baking sheet or rack.

Step 4: Get Ready to Bake

Before the chicken hits the oven, spray the tops lightly with cooking spray or olive oil spray. This clever trick means you’ll get that gorgeous fried look and irresistible crunch, all without extra oil. Slide the tray into your hot oven and let the magic happen!

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through for even browning. When they’re golden brown and crisp, check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F to ensure juicy, safely cooked chicken. That’s Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders at their best—golden, crunchy, and ready to steal the spotlight.

How to Serve Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Right out of the oven, scatter your tenders with a final sprinkle of fresh parsley or a bit more grated Parmesan for a flourish of green or an extra cheesy finish. Lemon wedges add brightness and a squeeze over the top brings all the flavors together.

Side Dishes

Pair your tenders with a fresh green salad, crispy sweet potato fries, or classic coleslaw to create a well-rounded meal. They’re also a perfect match for dipping sauces—think homemade ranch, spicy sriracha mayo, or classic marinara to keep everyone at the table happy.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to up your serving game, tuck the tenders into warm pita with crunchy lettuce and a tangy yogurt sauce for a Mediterranean twist, or slice and serve atop creamy pasta or a vibrant grain bowl. However you plate them, Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders turn an everyday dinner into something memorable.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover tenders cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay fresh and crispy for up to three days, ready to satisfy your next snack or sandwich craving.

Freezing

To freeze, arrange cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This method keeps each tender separate and easy to reheat later, making Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders a fantastic make-ahead staple.

Reheating

Pop the tenders back into a hot oven or air fryer at 400°F for about 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to soften the coating instead of bringing back that signature crunch.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into even strips to mimic the size of tenders, and proceed with the recipe as written. The result will be just as delicious.

Is there a gluten-free option?

Yes! Swap out the panko breadcrumbs for your favorite gluten-free variety, and you’ll still get that coveted crispy exterior without any gluten.

What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?

This dish is super versatile—try marinara, honey mustard, ranch, buffalo sauce, or simply enjoy them with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a lighter touch.

Can I make these Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders ahead for a party?

Definitely. Bread the tenders in advance and refrigerate them on the baking tray up to a few hours ahead. When you’re ready, bake as directed for fresh, crispy perfection.

Do I have to use a wire rack, or will parchment paper work?

Parchment paper is totally fine for easy cleanup, but using a wire rack helps ensure the tenders get crispy all around by letting hot air circulate beneath them. If you have a rack, go for it—if not, just flip halfway through baking for even crispiness.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about pulling a tray of Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders from the oven—golden, crunchy, and ready to dip and devour. This easy, crowd-pleasing recipe will earn a spot in your regular dinner rotation in no time. Try them once, and you’ll see just how delicious healthy comfort food can be!

Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.6 from 29 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These Oven-Baked Crispy Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. Packed with flavor and crunch, these tenders are easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Tenders:

1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders

Breadcrumb Mixture:

1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Other:

2 large eggs
cooking spray or olive oil spray

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Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
Prepare Coating: In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Coat the Tenders: Dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Bake: Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray. Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.