Description
Crispy and flavorful Oven Fried Parmesan Baked Chicken Tenders made with a crunchy panko and parmesan coating, baked to golden perfection for a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. Perfect for a quick 30-minute meal that serves 3.
Ingredients
Coating
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Olive oil spray
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
Batter
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp whole egg mayonnaise
- 1½ tbsp dijon mustard (or any mustard of choice)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Others
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 500 g / 1 lb chicken tenderloins (or chicken breast cut into ⅔” / 1.5cm thick lengthwise slices)
- Oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 200°C (390°F) to preheat, ensuring it reaches the right temperature for baking the chicken tenders evenly.
- Toast the breadcrumbs: Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a baking tray and lightly spray with olive oil. Bake in the oven for 3 to 5 minutes until they turn a light golden color, enhancing their crispiness.
- Mix the coating: Transfer the toasted panko breadcrumbs to a bowl and add the grated parmesan cheese. Mix them well to combine the flavorful crust mixture.
- Prepare the batter: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg, whole egg mayonnaise, dijon mustard, minced garlic, plain flour, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add the chicken tenderloins to this mixture and toss well to coat each piece thoroughly.
- Optional rack setup: If available, place a wire rack on top of the baking tray. This allows air to circulate around the chicken for a crisper texture during baking.
- Coat the chicken: Using your hands, pick up each battered chicken piece with one hand and dip into the breadcrumb-parmesan mixture with the other, pressing to make the coating stick well. Transfer the coated tenders to the baking tray or rack. Repeat for all chicken pieces, then lightly spray all tenders with oil.
- Bake the chicken: Place the baking tray in the oven and bake for 15 minutes for smaller tenders or about 18 minutes for larger pieces. Avoid baking longer than 20 minutes to maintain juiciness inside.
- Serve: Serve the golden, crispy chicken tenders immediately with your favorite dips such as Ranch or Honey Mustard for added flavor.
Notes
- Note 1: Using panko breadcrumbs provides a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Note 2: Store-bought grated parmesan cheese is convenient and adds a rich umami flavor to the coating.
- Note 3: Using a wire rack during baking helps cook the tenders evenly and keeps the crust crisp all around.
- Note 4: These chicken tenders pair excellently with creamy dips like Ranch or sweet and tangy Honey Mustard for a complete snack or meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
