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Chicken tenders have long held a special place in the hearts of food lovers around the world. Their tender, juicy meat and convenient finger-food format make them a universal favorite among children and adults alike. Whether enjoyed as a quick snack, a delightful appetizer, or a star attraction at family dinners, chicken tenders are synonymous with comfort food. However, traditional preparations often involve frying, which can lead to excess calories and unhealthy fats. Enter the Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders—a healthier baked alternative that doesn’t compromise on flavor or crunch.

Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders

Discover the joy of making Crispy Parmesan Crusted Chicken Tenders, a healthy twist on a beloved classic. These baked tenders are juicy and packed with flavor, thanks to a combination of Parmesan cheese and spices for that perfect crunch without the guilt. Ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings, they'll delight both kids and adults alike. Get ready to enjoy a nutritious meal that's easy to prepare and sure to impress your guests!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb chicken tenders

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp paprika

½ tsp salt

½ tsp black pepper

½ tsp dried Italian herbs (optional for added flavor)

Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). To facilitate an easy cleanup later, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

    Set Up Dredging Stations: Create an efficient coating station with three shallow bowls:

      - In the first bowl, place the all-purpose flour.

        - In the second bowl, crack the eggs and beat them until they are completely mixed.

          - In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and optional dried Italian herbs for an aromatic touch.

            Coat the Chicken Tenders: Take one chicken tender at a time and first dredge it in the flour, ensuring it is entirely covered. Gently shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the coated tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any surplus egg to drip off. Finally, place the tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down lightly to ensure that the coating adheres thoroughly. Repeat this process for all the chicken tenders.

              Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Carefully lay each coated chicken tender onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are spaced apart to allow for even cooking. To enhance browning and crispness, lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil.

                Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Remember to flip the chicken tenders halfway through the baking time to ensure they are golden brown on both sides. They are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are beautifully golden.

                  Serve and Enjoy: After baking, remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes to retain their juiciness. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as ranch, honey mustard, or marinara for a delightful finish.

                    Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 35 minutes | Makes 4 servings.