Chicken Tenders Parmesan
This Chicken Tenders Parmesan is crispy, cheesy, and bursting with Italian flavors. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or casual gathering!
Equipment
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Shallow Bowls
- Olive oil spray
- Oven
- Spatula or tongs
- Grater
Ingredients
- 12 chicken tenders about 1 1/4 lbs
- 1 large egg beaten
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs divided, half reserved for topping
- olive oil spray
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- chopped basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Breading Station
- In one shallow bowl, whisk the large egg until fully beaten. In another bowl, place 1 cup of seasoned breadcrumbs. Set aside half of these breadcrumbs for topping.
Coat the Chicken Tenders
- Sprinkle the chicken tenders evenly with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Dip each tender into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off. Press each tender into the seasoned breadcrumbs, coating thoroughly.
Arrange and Bake
- Place the breaded chicken tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray tops with olive oil spray.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Add Sauce and Cheese
- Remove tenders from oven. Spoon marinara sauce generously over each piece. Sprinkle reserved breadcrumbs over sauce, then top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
Final Bake and Garnish
- Return baking sheet to oven for 5-7 minutes until cheese is melted, bubbly, and breadcrumbs are golden brown.
- Sprinkle chopped fresh basil leaves over hot Chicken Tenders Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of seasoned breadcrumbs.
- Substitute part-skim mozzarella with dairy-free cheese for a dairy-free option.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container refrigerated up to 3 days; reheat in oven to maintain crispiness.
- To make gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and check marinara sauce ingredients.
- Do not overcrowd baking sheet to ensure even crisping of chicken tenders.