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- 1 pound chicken tenderloins - 1 cup all-purpose flour - 2 large eggs, beaten - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning - Salt and pepper, to taste - 1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade) - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese - Fresh basil leaves, for garnish - Olive oil, for frying - Adding fresh herbs like parsley or oregano can brighten the dish. - You can use crushed cornflakes instead of breadcrumbs for a different crunch. - Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. - Mix in some Italian sausage with the marinara sauce for added flavor. Using these ingredients, you can create a delightful meal that pleases everyone. The blend of flavors in the chicken and sauce makes this dish truly special. You can follow the Full Recipe to get all the steps and tips to perfect your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Tenders. To start, set up three shallow bowls. Use one bowl for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs. I season the flour with salt and pepper. In the breadcrumb bowl, mix in grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. This spice mix adds great flavor to the tenders. Next, take each chicken tenderloin. First, coat it in the seasoned flour, shaking off the extra. Then, dip it into the beaten eggs. Finally, press it into the breadcrumb mix until it is well-coated. I like to ensure an even coating for the best crunch. Repeat this for all the tenderloins. Now it’s time to fry! Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should be hot but not smoking. Carefully add the coated chicken tenders in batches. I avoid overcrowding the pan. Fry each side for about 4 to 5 minutes. You want them golden brown and crispy. When done, transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce at the bottom. Place the fried chicken tenders on top of the sauce. Pour the rest of the marinara over the tenders. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top. For a bubbly cheese topping, bake for about 15 to 20 minutes. Enjoy the delicious smell as it cooks! For the full recipe, refer to the earlier section. To get the best crunch, always use panko breadcrumbs. They are light and airy, which helps your chicken turn out super crispy. Regular breadcrumbs don’t give the same texture. When frying, keep the oil temperature right. Heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. If the oil is too hot, your chicken will burn. If it is too cool, the chicken will soak up the oil. Fry the chicken in batches without crowding the pan. This helps them cook evenly and stay crispy. Pair your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Tenders with some easy sides. A fresh salad adds a nice crunch. Roasted veggies or garlic bread are also great choices. For dips, marinara sauce is a classic. You can also serve ranch or a spicy aioli for a tasty twist. These sides and dips elevate your meal. You can spice up your chicken with extra flavors. Try adding paprika or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for some heat. For a fresh taste, consider using herbs. Basil, parsley, or oregano can add more depth. Chopping these herbs and mixing them with the breadcrumbs is a great way to boost flavor. Explore the full recipe to make your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Tenders today! {{image_2}} You can switch up the cheese for your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Tenders. While mozzarella and Parmesan are standard, many tasty options exist. Try using provolone for a creamy texture. Gouda can add a rich, smoky flavor. For something unique, consider using a sharp cheddar. The right cheese can change the dish's flavor profile. You can also use flavored cheeses, like herb-infused or garlic cheese blends. These options give a twist to the classic taste. If you want a healthier version, consider baking instead of frying. Baking reduces the oil and calories. It also keeps the chicken tender and juicy. You can also explore gluten-free or low-carb options. Use almond flour or coconut flour for a gluten-free breading. For a low-carb choice, try crushed pork rinds instead of breadcrumbs. Both options can still give you that crunchy texture. Want a kick of heat? You can add spice to the chicken or sauce. Mix in red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mix for added warmth. You can also use spicy marinara sauce. Brands that feature spicy options can make this dish pop. Look for sauces labeled "arrabbiata" or "spicy marinara." These varieties will enhance the flavor and give your meal a bold twist. To keep your Crispy Chicken Parmesan Tenders fresh, cool them first. Place them on a wire rack to let air circulate. This helps prevent sogginess. After they cool, store them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save them longer, freeze them. Wrap each tender tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating them properly is key. The oven is the best choice for keeping them crispy. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tenders on a baking sheet and cover them loosely with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are warm. If you use a microwave, be careful. The microwave can make them soggy. To avoid this, place a paper towel under the tenders. Heat them in short intervals, checking often. This helps them stay somewhat crispy, but the oven is always better. No matter how you reheat, enjoy those tasty tenders again! For the full recipe, check out the earlier section. To make Crispy Chicken Parmesan Tenders, start with the full recipe. First, set up three bowls for your breading. One bowl holds seasoned flour, another has beaten eggs, and the last has breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan and spices. Coat each chicken tender in flour, then eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mix. Fry the chicken in hot olive oil until golden brown. After frying, layer marinara sauce and cheese in a baking dish with the chicken. Bake until the cheese melts. This method gives you a crunchy and tasty dish. Yes, you can use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins. However, chicken breasts are thicker. You’ll need to cut them into similar sizes as the tenderloins. This helps them cook evenly. Cooking time may be longer, about 6 to 8 minutes per side. Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat. To reheat chicken tenders, the oven is best. Preheat it to 350°F. Place the tenders on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. This keeps them from drying out. Heat for about 10 to 15 minutes. If you prefer the microwave, use medium power. Heat in short bursts to prevent sogginess. You want to enjoy that crispy texture again! Crispy Chicken Parmesan Tenders are fun and easy to make. You need simple ingredients and clear steps. Start with preparing your chicken, then bread it well. Fry until it’s golden, and layer with sauce and cheese. Bake to perfection and serve with your favorite sides. Feel free to customize flavors and make it your own. Use different cheeses or add spice. Proper storage and reheating keep the tenders tasty. Enjoy your cooking adventure and impress others with this delicious meal!

Crispy Chicken Parmesan Tenders

Get ready to impress with these Crispy Chicken Parmesan Tenders! This easy recipe combines tender chicken with a crunchy, cheesy coating, perfect for family dinners or game day snacks. In just 40 minutes, you can enjoy this delicious dish topped with marinara and melted mozzarella. Ready to dive into this flavor-packed journey? Click to explore the full recipe and bring a taste of Italy to your kitchen!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound chicken tenderloins

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs, beaten

1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 cup marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Olive oil, for frying

Instructions
 

Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour seasoned with salt and pepper; one with the beaten eggs; and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning.

    Coat the Chicken: Take each chicken tenderloin and first coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, and finally, press it into the breadcrumb mixture until well-coated. Repeat with all chicken tenders.

      Fry the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat about 1/4 inch of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the coated chicken tenders in batches (do not overcrowd the pan). Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.

        Assemble the Tenders: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread half of the marinara sauce at the bottom. Place the fried chicken tenders on top of the sauce. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the tenders. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over everything.

          Baking: Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

            Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

              Prep Time: 15 mins | Total Time: 40 mins | Servings: 4