4-Ingredient Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
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Get ready to wow your taste buds with these killer 4-Ingredient Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders! They are crispy, juicy, and full of flavor. This recipe is a game-changer, scoring a whopping 4.99 out of 5 stars from 133 happy eaters.
Imagine golden-brown tenders, crispy outside, tender inside. The best part? You only need 4 simple ingredients and 5 minutes of prep time. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something tasty but don’t feel like slaving over the stove.
Each serving has 342 calories and 33g of protein. It’s great for fitness buffs and hungry families alike. Trust me, these tenders are so good, you’ll want to make extra for leftovers. They keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days, but I bet they won’t last that long!
5 Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe
This garlic parmesan chicken tenders recipe is going to be your new favorite! It’s great for anyone who wants a tasty and healthy meal fast.
It’s super easy to make. You only need 5 minutes to get started. This is perfect for busy nights when you need a quick dinner.
Kids and adults will love it. The crispy outside and cheesy inside make it irresistible.
- Low-carb and gluten-free: Each serving has only 23g of carbs. It’s good for many diets.
- Nutritious: With 26g of protein per serving, it’s full of good stuff.
- Versatile: You can change it up with different seasonings or use it in other meals.
This recipe uses simple ingredients you probably have at home. Chicken, mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder make it delicious.
“These garlic parmesan chicken tenders are so good, my family asks for them every week!”
And it’s only 320 calories per serving. It’s a tasty, lighter option instead of fried chicken.
Exact Ingredients List (+ Possible Substitutes)
I love this recipe because it’s easy and you can change it up. You need chicken tenderloins, mayonnaise, parmesan cheese, and garlic powder. You’ll need 2.5 pounds of chicken, 3/4 cup mayo, 3/4 cup parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
Don’t have all the ingredients? No worries! Here are some ingredient substitutions you can try:
- Swap chicken tenderloins for chicken breasts cut into strips or boneless skinless chicken thighs
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a tangy twist
- Use grated parmesan instead of shredded for a finer texture
- Mix in dried basil or paprika for extra flavor
Chicken tenderloins cook fast, about 7 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s temperature. It should be 165°F. Each serving has about 476 calories, with 44.8g of protein and 30.6g of total fat.
“Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the secret to optimal melting and taste in this dish.”
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste. Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. With these simple ingredients and easy substitutions, you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Instructions
I love how easy these chicken tenders are to make! Let’s dive into the baking instructions. First, preheat your oven to 400°F. This cooking temperature ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.
The prep time is minimal, about 5 minutes. Mix mayo, 1/4 cup of cheese, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl. Coat the chicken tenders in this mixture and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top for extra flavor.
Now for the cook time. Bake the tenders for 20-25 minutes. They’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If you want that golden-brown cheese crust, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning!
- Total time: 30 minutes
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
These tenders are packed with flavor and nutrition. Each serving contains 357 calories, 16g carbs, 27g protein, and 20g fat. They’re a great source of calcium (163mg) and iron (2mg) too!
“These chicken tenders are my go-to for a quick, delicious meal. The garlic and parmesan flavors are irresistible!”
Tips, Tricks & Storing
I love sharing cooking tips to make your chicken tenders perfect every time. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked to 160°F. Let it rest for 5 minutes after cooking to reach the safe temperature of 165°F. This ensures juicy, perfectly cooked tenders.
When it comes to storage instructions, cool your tenders completely before placing them in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, try freezing chicken tenders. Flash freeze them on a baking sheet for 2 hours, then transfer to a freezer bag. This method prevents them from sticking together.
- Air fry for 12-14 minutes at 375°F, flipping halfway
- Each tender has 11g protein, 0g carbs, and 70 calories
- Recipe yields 8 tenders, serving 4
For reheating methods, you have options. Microwave for quick results, or use the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore crispiness. I prefer the oven method as it maintains the tender’s texture better.
“These chicken tenders are a game-changer! So easy to make and reheat. My family loves them!”
Remember, these tenders are versatile. Try them with a dip made from Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, Parmesan, and hot sauce for extra flavor. With these tips and tricks, you’ll master the art of making and storing delicious chicken tenders.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
I love how versatile these garlic Parmesan chicken tenders are! For a low-carb meal, I pair them with roasted broccoli or green beans. A cucumber tomato salad adds a fresh touch. When I’m craving comfort food, I serve them with creamy mashed cauliflower.
Dipping sauces take these tenders to the next level. My go-to options are tangy ranch, sweet honey mustard, or a homemade garlic Parmesan sauce. For recipe adaptations, I sometimes add dried basil or use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch. The cooking time stays the same at 20-25 minutes, even with these tweaks.
These chicken tenders are perfect for meal pairings across various cuisines. I often slice them up for Caesar salads or wrap them in tortillas with veggies. With 29g of protein per serving, they’re a filling main dish. Remember, one serving (3 strips) contains 353 calories, so adjust your side dishes accordingly for a balanced meal.