Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a crispy, golden delight that’s easy to make and incredibly tasty. These tenders are breaded in crushed cornflakes for an irresistible crunch, then tossed in a rich garlic parmesan butter sauce that’s absolutely mouthwatering. You can make them in an air fryer or bake them in the oven, making this recipe perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or game day!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lb chicken breasts, sliced into tenders

  • 2 eggs, whisked

  • 2 cups cornflakes, crushed

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

• For the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

  • 4 tablespoons butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ cup freshly grated Parmigiano Reggiano

  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Season the Chicken:
   Season the chicken tenders with garlic powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

2. Bread the Chicken:
   Crush the cornflakes and set them aside. Dip each chicken tender into the whisked eggs, then coat in the crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks. Set the breaded tenders on a tray.

3. Cook the Chicken:

   • Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the basket with oil and place the chicken tenders in a single layer (cook in batches if necessary). Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

   • Oven: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and a wire rack (optional). Arrange the tenders in a single layer, lightly spray with oil, and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.

4. Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce:
   In a microwave-safe bowl, combine butter, minced garlic, and salt. Microwave for 1-2 minutes until the butter is bubbly and the garlic is fragrant.

5. Toss and Serve:
   Toss the cooked chicken tenders in the garlic parmesan sauce until well coated. Plate the tenders, freshly grate more parmesan on top, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve and enjoy!

Nutrients

Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown for one serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal

• Total Fat: 20g

  • Saturated Fat: 10g

• Cholesterol: 85mg

• Sodium: 800-900mg

• Carbohydrates: 20g

  • Fiber: 2g

  • Sugar: 2g

• Protein: 35g

Why Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders Are So Popular

The popularity of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders comes from their incredible flavor and satisfying texture. The crispy cornflake coating gives the chicken tenders a perfect crunch without being overly greasy, while the garlic parmesan sauce adds a rich and savory burst of flavor that’s truly irresistible. The garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese create a creamy, garlicky finish that coats each tender bite.

These tenders are perfect for a variety of occasions, from casual dinners to parties. They are easy to prepare and cook quickly, making them an ideal option for busy weeknights. Additionally, the garlic parmesan sauce can be customized with more or less garlic or parmesan, depending on your preferences. They can be served with dipping sauces, salads, or as part of a larger spread.

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Making these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders is simple and can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken tenders with garlic powder, salt, smoked paprika, and black pepper. This step infuses the chicken with flavors before it’s breaded and cooked.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Crush the cornflakes and set them aside in a shallow dish. Whisk the eggs in another shallow dish. Dip each chicken tender into the whisked eggs, ensuring that it’s fully coated, and then coat the chicken in the crushed cornflakes, pressing gently to make sure the coating sticks. Once coated, set the breaded chicken tenders on a tray. The cornflakes create the crispy coating that gives the tenders a satisfying crunch.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Air Fryer Method:
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the air fryer basket with oil to prevent sticking, and place the chicken tenders in a single layer. You may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your air fryer. Air fry for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F.

Oven Method:
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and a wire rack (optional, but helps the tenders crisp up on all sides). Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on the sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders will be crispy and golden once done.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

While the chicken is cooking, make the garlic parmesan sauce. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the butter, minced garlic, and salt. Microwave for 1-2 minutes until the butter is melted and bubbly, and the garlic is fragrant. This sauce will coat the chicken tenders and add a rich, savory flavor.

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Once the chicken tenders are cooked and crispy, remove them from the air fryer or oven. Immediately toss them in the garlic parmesan sauce until they are well coated. Plate the tenders, and if desired, freshly grate more parmesan on top for an extra cheesy touch. Garnish with chopped parsley for added color and freshness.

Serve these delicious tenders with a side of dipping sauces, salads, or freshly steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Why These Chicken Tenders Are Perfect for Any Occasion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are perfect for virtually any occasion. They can be served as an appetizer, snack, or main course. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a family dinner, or craving a quick meal, these tenders deliver on both flavor and texture.

The air fryer method makes them a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken, while still retaining that satisfying crunch. They can be served with a variety of sides like roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad. Additionally, they are easy to customize. If you want a spicier version, feel free to add some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic parmesan sauce. For those who love extra cheese, a sprinkle of parmesan on top adds even more flavor.

Conclusion

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a crispy, flavorful dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, a crunchy cornflake coating, and a rich garlic parmesan butter sauce creates a delicious balance of textures and flavors that everyone will love. Whether made in the air fryer or baked in the oven, this dish is perfect for any occasion, from busy weeknights to casual get-togethers.

The versatility of this dish makes it an excellent choice for families and gatherings, as it can be paired with a variety of sides and dipping sauces. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.