Chicken Tenders Parmesan
Enjoy a quick and delicious Chicken Tenders Parmesan recipe that combines crispy breaded chicken with savory Parmesan cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners!
Equipment
- Oven For baking the chicken tenders.
- Skillet For pan-frying the chicken tenders.
- Measuring cups/spoons For measuring ingredients like Parmesan cheese and olive oil.
- Shallow Dish For mixing the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning.
- Meat Thermometer For checking the internal temperature of the chicken.
- Tongs For flipping the chicken tenders during cooking.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 eggs large, beaten
- ¼ cup olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven to 400°FBefore you begin preparing the ingredients, it's vital to preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step might seem simple, but it's significant for achieving that perfect crispy exterior on your Chicken Tenders Parmesan.Why is preheating so important? Well, it guarantees that your oven reaches the ideal temperature before you pop in your dish, assuring even cooking throughout.When it comes to preheating techniques, you've got options. Most modern ovens have a preheat setting, but if yours doesn't, don't worry. Simply set the oven temperature to 400°F and give it about 20 minutes to warm up.Want to be certain it's ready? Use an oven thermometer for accuracy. Remember, every oven is different, so you might need to adjust slightly.While you're waiting for the oven to heat up, why not get a head start on prepping your ingredients? This way, you'll be ready to go as soon as that oven dings.Trust me, taking the time to preheat properly will make a world of difference in your final dish. Ready to make some mouthwatering Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
- Mix Parmesan and SeasoningMixing the Parmesan and seasoning is an essential step in creating the perfect coating for your chicken tenders. You'll want to use freshly grated Parmesan for its superior melting and crisping properties.But have you ever wondered about the parmesan benefits beyond taste? It's packed with calcium, protein, and vitamins, making your meal not just delicious but nutritious too!When it comes to seasoning types, Italian seasoning is a classic choice, but don't be afraid to experiment. You could try a blend of garlic powder, dried basil, and oregano for a zesty twist.Or how about a touch of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth? The key is to mix your Parmesan and seasoning thoroughly in a shallow dish. This guarantees even distribution and makes the coating process a breeze.As you combine these ingredients, take a moment to appreciate the aromas. Doesn't it make your mouth water?
- Dip Tenders in EggThe egg wash serves as the essential adhesive for your Parmesan coating. It's time to give your chicken tenders a luxurious bath! Crack two large eggs into a shallow bowl and beat them until they're well combined. This egg coating won't only help the cheese stick but also contribute to a tender texture in your finished dish.Now, let's get your hands dirty (figuratively, of course). Pick up each chicken tender and dip it into the beaten eggs. Make sure it's fully coated, allowing any excess to drip off. As you're doing this, why not take a moment to appreciate the transformation that's about to occur? These humble strips of chicken are on their way to becoming crispy, cheesy delights.Have you ever wondered why we use eggs in this process? It's not just tradition - the proteins in eggs create a perfect binding layer between the chicken and the Parmesan mixture.Plus, they add a subtle richness to the overall flavor profile. Ready to move on to the next step? Let's get that Parmesan coating ready!
- Coat Tenders in Cheese MixtureGet ready to transform your egg-coated chicken tenders into crispy, cheesy delights. It's time to master the art of coating, guaranteeing each tender is perfectly encased in a flavorful Parmesan mixture. Are you ready to elevate your chicken game?Start by grabbing your shallow dish with the Parmesan and Italian seasoning blend. Now, here's where your coating techniques come into play. Pick up each egg-dipped tender and gently roll it in the cheese mixture, pressing lightly to help the coating adhere.Don't just dunk and go – take your time to guarantee even coverage. Remember, patience is key for that perfect crust!Wondering about cheese alternatives? While Parmesan is the star here, you could experiment with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a flavor twist. Just make sure they're finely grated for the best coating results.As you work, try to use one hand for the egg and the other for the cheese mixture. This "dry hand, wet hand" technique will keep your fingers from becoming a breaded mess.Ready to fry? Let's move on to the next step!
- Cook in Skillet, Then BakeNow that your chicken tenders are coated in the flavorful Parmesan mixture, it's time to cook them to crispy perfection. Let's explore some skillet techniques and baking tips to guarantee your dish turns out amazing.First, heat your olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. When it's hot, carefully place your coated tenders in the pan. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they're golden brown. This step is vital for achieving that irresistible crunch. Ever wonder why restaurant chicken always looks so appetizing? It's all in the sear!Once your tenders are beautifully browned, it's time for some oven magic. Transfer the entire skillet to your preheated oven.Don't have an oven-safe skillet? No worries! Simply move the tenders to a baking sheet. Now, let them bake for 15-20 minutes. This step guarantees they're cooked through while maintaining that crispy exterior.How will you know they're done? Use a meat thermometer - you're aiming for 165°F internal temperature. Ready to impress with your culinary skills?
Nutrition
Calories: 379kcalCarbohydrates: 1gProtein: 36gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 171mgSodium: 564mgPotassium: 479mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 0.3gVitamin A: 357IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 322mgIron: 1mg