Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Vegetable oil for frying
- Fresh chopped chives (optional, for garnish)
- Instructions:
- Prepare the Breading Station:
- Place the flour in a shallow dish.
- In a second dish, whisk the eggs and milk together.
- In a third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Dredge each chicken strip in the flour, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
- Finally, press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly.
- Heat the Oil:
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a deep skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat (approximately 350°F/175°C). - Fry the Chicken:
- Carefully place the breaded chicken strips into the hot oil. Fry for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
- Remove and place on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Serve:
Garnish with fresh chopped chives and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces (e.g., honey mustard, ranch, or spicy mayo). - Tips:
- For a healthier version, bake the tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Use an air fryer for a crispy texture with less oil—cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- These chicken tenders are best enjoyed fresh but can also be reheated for a quick and easy meal. Bon appétit!
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- Tips
- To achieve perfectly crispy Parmesan chicken tenders, start by using panko breadcrumbs mixed with grated Parmesan for the coating.
- Panko creates a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- For extra crispiness, toast the breadcrumbs in a skillet with a touch of oil before coating the chicken.
- This step ensures a golden-brown crust that’s both visually appealing and delicious.
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- When breading the tenders, use a three-step method: dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture.
- Press the coating gently onto the chicken to ensure it sticks well.
- Bake the tenders on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet for even heat distribution, or air fry them for a quicker, equally crispy alternative.
- Variations
- For a spicier version, add cayenne pepper, paprika, or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- You can also mix in Italian seasoning or fresh herbs like parsley and thyme for an aromatic twist.
- Using garlic powder or onion powder in the coating adds another layer of flavor that complements the Parmesan beautifully.
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- For a gluten-free alternative, substitute the flour and breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
- If you prefer a dairy-free option, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the cheese.
- Experiment with dipping sauces like marinara, honey mustard, or ranch to match different flavor profiles.
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- Conclusion
- Crispy Parmesan chicken tenders are a deliciously satisfying dish that strikes the perfect balance between savory, cheesy flavors and a crunchy texture.
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- They’re easy to prepare and make for a versatile meal or snack that both kids and adults will love. With simple tips and techniques, you can replicate that restaurant-quality crispiness right in your kitchen.
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- Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try creative variations, these chicken tenders are bound to become a favorite in your household.
- Serve them as an appetizer, main dish, or part of a party spread, and enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.Categories