Baked Parmesan Chicken Tenders (Printable Format)

Golden chicken tenders baked with Parmesan and herbs for a crispy and flavorful finish.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 1.1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders
02 - 1/2 tsp salt
03 - 1/4 tsp black pepper

→ Breading

04 - 2/3 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 tsp garlic powder
07 - 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
08 - 1/2 tsp paprika

→ Coating

09 - 2 large eggs
10 - 2 tbsp milk

→ For Baking

11 - 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing or drizzling)

# How-To Steps:

01 - Set the oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or position a wire rack on the sheet and lightly grease with olive oil.
02 - Pat chicken tenders dry using paper towels. Season evenly with salt and black pepper.
03 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
04 - In another shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and paprika.
05 - Dip each tender into the egg wash, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
06 - Place coated tenders onto the prepared baking rack or sheet. Drizzle olive oil lightly over them to enhance crispness.
07 - Bake for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
08 - Remove from oven and allow the tenders to rest for 2 minutes prior to serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • It's a healthier twist on the classic fried chicken tenders that still delivers that satisfying crunch you crave
  • The blend of Parmesan and Italian herbs creates a flavor combo that feels like a little celebration in every bite
02 -
  • Patting the chicken dry before seasoning is crucial—it gives you a crispier crust that sticks better
  • Using a wire rack spreads the heat evenly and prevents soggy bottoms, which changed everything for me
03 -
  • Pressing the breading firmly onto the chicken helps keep every bite perfectly crusted
  • The olive oil drizzle is the secret that makes these tenders irresistibly crispy without frying