Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders

These Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders are the ultimate crispy treat for chicken lovers. Coated in a perfectly golden herb-crusted exterior, the tenders are juicy and tender on the inside. The rich, nutty flavor of Parmigiano cheese pairs perfectly with the savory herbs, making every bite a delight.

Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these tenders will leave everyone craving more. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon to enhance the flavors and make this dish even more vibrant. Whether served with a side of salad, veggies, or fries, it’s a winning dish for any occasion.

Full Recipe

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound chicken breast tenders

  • 1 cup grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs

  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • 2 large eggs, beaten

  • 1/4 cup olive oil

  • Lemon wedges for serving

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. In a shallow bowl, mix the Parmigiano cheese, breadcrumbs, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.

  3. Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, then dredge in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down to coat evenly.

  4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken tenders for about 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.

  5. Transfer the chicken tenders to a baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

  6. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders: A Crispy Delight for Every Occasion

Chicken tenders are one of those versatile dishes that appeal to both children and adults alike. They can be served as a quick snack, a wholesome dinner, or even as a delicious appetizer at gatherings. If you’re tired of the usual plain breaded chicken, then you’re in for a treat with Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders. This recipe takes your standard chicken tenders to the next level with a rich, golden, herb-infused crust and the unmistakable sharpness of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. It’s crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and packed with flavor in every bite.

The Perfect Combination of Herbs and Parmesan

The key to the irresistible flavor of Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders lies in the coating. Parmesan cheese brings an extra layer of umami richness, complementing the tender, mild flavor of chicken breast. When paired with fresh or dried herbs, the result is an aromatic crust that is anything but ordinary. Herbs like oregano, garlic powder, and even thyme can be used to elevate the overall taste, giving the chicken a fresh and aromatic profile that makes it so much more exciting than just a simple breading.

The combination of crispy breadcrumbs and Parmigiano ensures a perfect balance of texture. The breadcrumbs provide a crunch that holds up well while the cheese gives the coating a melt-in-your-mouth flavor. The result is a tender chicken tender that delivers both taste and crunch in every bite.

Why Parmigiano-Reggiano?

Parmigiano-Reggiano, often simply referred to as Parmesan cheese, is one of the most revered cheeses worldwide. It’s made from cow’s milk and has a granular, yet creamy texture that becomes more complex with age. The cheese offers a deep umami flavor that complements many dishes, particularly when paired with meats like chicken. In this recipe, the Parmigiano coating not only adds flavor, but it also contributes to the crispy texture, making each bite more indulgent.

What sets Parmigiano-Reggiano apart from regular Parmesan cheese is its long aging process. True Parmigiano-Reggiano is aged for a minimum of 12 months, which gives it its distinctive sharp, nutty, and savory flavor. This cheese is perfect for this recipe because it holds its flavor even when paired with other seasonings and adds a depth that regular cheeses can’t quite match.

Versatility of Chicken Breast Tenders

Chicken breast tenders are one of the best cuts of meat to use in any dish because of their mild flavor, tenderness, and ability to cook quickly. Unlike other cuts of chicken that may be tougher or require longer cooking times, chicken tenders cook in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights when you want to get a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is also perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch of these chicken tenders, store them in the fridge, and quickly reheat them for a tasty meal throughout the week. They can be eaten alone, paired with a salad, or served with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or rice.

A Healthier Version of Fried Chicken

While fried chicken is a beloved classic, it’s often deep-fried in oil, making it heavy and high in fat. With Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders, we take the comfort of crispy chicken and make it lighter. Instead of deep-frying, these tenders are pan-fried with a small amount of olive oil, which reduces the fat content without sacrificing flavor or texture. Olive oil, being a heart-healthy fat, is a great choice for this recipe, providing a delicious crispiness while also adding a hint of richness.

Additionally, by using chicken breasts, you’re opting for a leaner protein source that is lower in fat than other cuts like thighs or wings. Chicken breasts are rich in protein, low in calories, and high in nutrients such as B vitamins, making this dish both satisfying and nutritious.

Customizing the Recipe to Your Taste

One of the greatest things about this recipe is its flexibility. The base coating of Parmesan cheese and herbs can easily be customized to suit your preferences. If you prefer a spicier kick, you can add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture. For a more aromatic dish, consider adding fresh herbs such as basil or thyme, which will bring a fragrant quality to the chicken tenders.

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers. You can even experiment with different cheeses like Asiago or Romano if you want a variation in flavor.

This recipe also lends itself to creativity in terms of dipping sauces. While a simple squeeze of fresh lemon is all you need to enhance the flavors, you can also serve these tenders with your favorite dipping sauces. From creamy ranch and tangy honey mustard to zesty barbecue sauce, there’s no wrong choice when it comes to pairing sauces with these crispy tenders.

Ideal for Any Occasion

Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with family or having friends over for a gathering, Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders are sure to impress. They’re simple enough for a quick weeknight dinner but flavorful enough to serve at parties or gatherings. You can even make them ahead of time, store them in the fridge or freezer, and reheat when needed for an easy and convenient meal.

The crispy texture, savory Parmesan flavor, and versatility make this recipe perfect for both casual meals and more special occasions. Plus, because they’re served in bite-sized pieces, they’re perfect for dipping and sharing, making them ideal for any gathering.

Conclusion:

Parmigiano and Herb Chicken Breast Tenders are a must-try for anyone who loves crispy, flavorful chicken that’s both easy to make and indulgent. By using the rich flavor of Parmigiano-Reggiano and a simple herb crust, you elevate ordinary chicken tenders into a dish that’s worthy of any table. The tenderness of the chicken combined with the crispy exterior makes each bite irresistible, while the option to customize the herbs and sauces gives you the freedom to make this dish your own.

Whether you’re preparing a quick dinner, meal prepping for the week, or serving up a dish that will wow your guests, these chicken tenders are a guaranteed hit. Enjoy them with your favorite sides, pair them with a refreshing drink, and dig into one of the best meals you’ll ever make.

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