Parmesan Chicken Tenders: A Delicious and Easy Recipe

Ingredients: Everything You’ll Need

Let’s gather all the delicious components you’ll require to create these incredible Parmesan Chicken Tenders – a recipe destined to become a family favorite! This recipe calls for simple, readily available ingredients, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience. You’ll need approximately 4 ounces of chicken breast tenderloins, which are the star of the show, offering a tender and juicy base for our flavorful coating. Alongside the chicken, we’ll be using about ½ cup of panko bread crumbs, providing a satisfyingly crispy texture when baked – panko’s larger size compared to regular breadcrumbs contributes significantly to this exceptional crunch. Next, we’ll need ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, adding a subtle yet impactful aroma and taste. A further ½ teaspoon of onion powder will enhance the savory notes, complementing the garlic beautifully. ¼ teaspoon of salt will balance the flavors, and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper adds a touch of warmth. Finally, we’ll sprinkle in ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese – the key ingredient giving these tenders their signature parmesan kick! And of course, we need the binding agent – 4 egg whites, which will ensure the breadcrumbs adhere perfectly to the chicken, creating a uniformly coated surface. Finally, you’ll want to have about 4 teaspoons (or 1 tablespoon) of olive oil on hand, necessary for pan-frying the chicken until golden brown. It’s important to note that while the measurements above provide a good starting point, you can adjust them slightly based on your personal preferences. For instance, if you enjoy a particularly robust parmesan flavor, feel free to increase the amount of Parmesan cheese. Similarly, if you prefer a more pronounced garlic aroma, you could add a pinch more garlic powder. The key is to experiment and tailor the recipe to your liking! Don’t forget to have a small bowl ready for the egg whites and another for the breadcrumbs to prevent cross-contamination.

To clarify, you’ll need these ingredients: 1 pound chicken breast tenderloins, ½ cup panko bread crumbs, ½ teaspoon garlic powder, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ¼ teaspoon salt, ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, 4 egg whites, and 4 teaspoons olive oil.

For the Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Let’s get started crafting these incredible Parmesan Chicken Tenders – a dish that’s bursting with flavor and surprisingly simple to make. The secret lies in a beautifully balanced breading, combining the savory punch of Parmesan cheese with aromatic garlic and onion, creating a coating that crisps up perfectly. We’ll be using tender chicken breast tenders, ensuring a juicy interior, while the exterior develops a glorious golden-brown crust. Don’t be intimidated by the steps; we’ll guide you through each one with ease, resulting in a weeknight meal that’s guaranteed to impress!

First, pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels – this is crucial for helping the breading adhere properly. Next, in a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix it all together thoroughly, ensuring every crumb is coated with the savory spices. This seasoned breadcrumb mixture is the foundation for the amazing texture we’re aiming for. The panko provides a superior crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs, and the garlic and onion powder add a depth of flavor that truly elevates the dish. It’s a wonderful blend of textures and tastes – a perfect combination.

Now, take each chicken tender and gently press it into the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s completely coated on all sides. Work systematically, making sure you don’t rush. A little bit of patience here will pay off in the final result. You want a generous, even layer of breadcrumbs – this is what delivers that classic, satisfying crunch. Once all the chicken tenders are coated, lay them out on a plate or baking sheet. They’re ready for the next step, where they’ll transform into the Parmesan Chicken Tenders you’ve been dreaming about! Prepare your pan for a final step. It’s time for the pan-frying, a key element to getting the best texture and flavor.

For this, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil in a 12-inch nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer slightly – this indicates it’s hot enough to sear the chicken without letting it burn. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in the skillet, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the oil and result in soggy tenders. You might need to cook them in batches. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, until they’re beautifully golden brown and the breading is nicely crispy. Adjust the heat if needed to prevent burning. The goal is a fantastic sear that locks in the juices and gives you that irresistible crunch. Remember, a bit of patience and careful monitoring will ensure perfection. Finally, transfer the cooked chicken tenders to a wire rack to drain any excess oil, and prepare them for the final step – baking.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Set a wire rack over a large-rimmed baking sheet and spray the rack with nonstick cooking spray; this prevents the tenders from sticking and ensures they bake evenly. Arrange the pan-fried tenders onto the wire rack. Bake for 8 to 10 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is beautifully golden brown. This final bake helps to set the breading and guarantees a consistently delicious result. Watch carefully – you want a perfect balance of crispiness and tenderness. Finally, once done, remove from the oven and let rest briefly before serving. Enjoy your delectable Parmesan Chicken Tenders!

For the Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Creating a truly exceptional buttermilk ranch dressing is all about balancing creamy richness with a bright, tangy zest. This isn’t just a quick mix; it’s a carefully constructed flavor profile designed to complement the crispy, savory Parmesan chicken tenders beautifully. To start, you’ll want to use a high-quality mayonnaise – something with a subtle tang will work best, like a Duke’s or Hellmann’s. Don’t skimp on this component, as it forms the foundation of the dressing’s body and flavor.

Next, incorporate 2 tablespoons of sour cream, adding a delightful creaminess and a subtle acidity that cuts through the richness. The type of sour cream is less crucial here, but a full-fat version will ensure the most decadent result. A little extra tang is often welcome, and a dollop of lemon juice (about 1 teaspoon) can add a welcome spark – be mindful not to overdo it.

Now, let’s introduce the star of the show: buttermilk. ¼ cup is the ideal amount – it’s not just a liquid; it’s packed with lactic acid, which provides that signature tangy, creamy buttermilk flavor. Using low-fat buttermilk will significantly reduce the overall richness, but honestly, we’re aiming for indulgence with these chicken tenders, so full-fat is absolutely recommended buttermilk!

Beyond the basic ingredients, a few additions really elevate the dressing. Finely chopped fresh dill (about 1 tablespoon) introduces a herbaceous freshness, complementing the parmesan wonderfully dill! A pinch of garlic powder (½ teaspoon) adds a subtle savory note, while a little white wine vinegar (1 ½ teaspoons) provides a crucial tangy kick. Don’t be afraid to experiment – a dash of Worcestershire sauce can add a deep umami flavor, or a pinch of onion powder for a deeper savory taste Worcestershire. Seasoning with a pinch of black pepper, and a tiny bit of salt (¼ teaspoon) – taste frequently as you go, as ingredients have varying amounts of salt. It’s absolutely crucial to adjust the seasoning to your preference – some people prefer a more pronounced tang, while others favor a more savory profile. Whisk all ingredients together until completely smooth, then cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and deepen – this step significantly enhances the overall taste. The longer it sits, the better it gets recipe development. Finally, don’t forget to adjust the consistency by adding a touch more buttermilk if needed – you want a dressing that coats the chicken tenders beautifully without being too thick or too thin. A good ranch dressing should cling to the chicken, creating a luscious and irresistible combination. To get the most amazing result, use a good quality immersion blender to ensure a perfectly smooth texture.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

Let’s get cooking! These parmesan chicken tenders are surprisingly simple to make, and the result is a crispy, flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Follow these steps for the best results:

Prep Work (5 minutes):

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the breading gets beautifully golden brown and the chicken cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Wire Rack: Place a wire rack on a baking sheet. This is crucial – placing the tenders directly on the baking sheet will result in soggy bottoms. The wire rack allows air to circulate, promoting even crispness.
3. Gather Your Ingredients: Make sure you have everything measured and ready to go. It’s much easier to stay organized when you’re in the middle of cooking.

Making the Chicken Tenders (15 minutes):

4. Cut the Chicken: Cut the chicken breast tenderloins into approximately 1-inch thick strips. This creates a good surface area for the breading to adhere to and ensures consistent cooking.
5. Season the Chicken: In a shallow dish, season the chicken strips with a generous pinch of salt, freshly ground black pepper, garlic powder and onion powder. This step adds significant flavor, so don’t skimp!
6. Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes. In the first dish, place the panko bread crumbs. In the second dish, whisk together the egg whites. In the third dish, place the grated Parmesan cheese. Having these ready will streamline the process.
7. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken strip into the egg white, then immediately into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring they’re completely coated. Gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to help them stick. Repeat this process for all the chicken strips.
8. Arrange on Wire Rack: Transfer the breaded chicken strips to the prepared wire rack, leaving a little space between each piece. This prevents them from sticking together.

Cooking the Chicken (10-15 minutes):

9. Add Oil to Skillet: In a 12-inch nonstick skillet, add 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to heat up for about a minute before adding the chicken. (Using nonstick cookware is highly recommended for this recipe).
10. Cook the Chicken: Carefully add the breaded chicken strips to the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for approximately 3-4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C).
11. Check for Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It’s important to ensure that the chicken is cooked through, especially for food safety.
12. Remove from Skillet: Once the chicken is cooked through, transfer the tenders to the wire rack to continue cooking and maintain their crispness. If you want to ensure an even cook, you can return the entire rack to the oven for an additional 5 minutes.

Final Steps (2 minutes):

13. Serve Immediately: Serve the parmesan chicken tenders immediately with your favorite dipping sauce – the buttermilk ranch dressing is a fantastic complement! Enjoy!

Make the Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

To create a truly sensational accompaniment to your Parmesan Chicken Tenders, let’s dive into the creation of our homemade Buttermilk Ranch Dressing. This isn’t your average store-bought version; it’s a creamy, tangy, and herbaceous delight that perfectly complements the savory and crispy chicken. Flavorful dressing is the key to elevating the entire dish, adding a layer of complexity that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Here’s what you’ll need – and it’s incredibly simple, promising a quick and rewarding culinary experience. We start with a generous 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, high-quality mayo provides a rich, smooth base for the dressing. Then, we incorporate 2 tablespoons of sour cream, adding a distinctive tang and intensifying the creaminess. This combination of mayonnaise and sour cream is a classic pairing for a reason – it creates a beautiful balance of richness and acidity.

Next, we add ¼ cup of low-fat buttermilk. Buttermilk’s role is crucial; it tenderizes the dressing, contributing a subtle tang that balances the richness. It’s the key ingredient in many fantastic American ranch dressings. Don’t substitute with milk; the acidity of the buttermilk is what gives the dressing its distinctive character.

Now, let’s introduce some herbs and spices. We’ll be using 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill. Dill adds a refreshing, slightly grassy flavor that works perfectly with the chicken and the creamy base. Feel free to add a sprig of parsley if you would like a richer flavor! Adding fresh herbs always brings better flavor than dried, which are often overly concentrated.

To enhance the depth of flavor, we’ll incorporate 1 ½ teaspoons of white wine vinegar. Vinegar provides a crucial acid balance, complementing the richness and adding brightness. It prevents the dressing from becoming overly heavy. White Wine Vinegar recipe is a great place to learn more about it.

Finally, we season with ½ teaspoon of garlic powder and ¼ teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper. Garlic powder adds a savory element, while black pepper contributes a subtle warmth. Adjusting the seasoning is key – start with these amounts and add more to your liking. A good seasoning is what will make or break a dish.

Instructions: Simply whisk all of these ingredients together in a small bowl until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve. This dressing keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, making it ideal for meal prepping. Serve alongside your golden-brown Parmesan Chicken Tenders for the ultimate comfort food experience! Easy recipe is a good resource if you want more options.

Nutrition: Nutritional Information Per Serving

Serving: 4oz + 2 tablespoons Ranch dressing | Calories: 306kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 31g | Fat: 16g | Saturated Fat: 4g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Trans Fat: 0.03g | Cholesterol: 85mg | Sodium: 706mg | Potassium: 543mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 2g | Vitamin A: 146IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 104mg | Iron: 1mg

Detailed Nutritional Breakdown (per serving – 4oz Chicken Tender + 2 tbsp Ranch Dressing):

This nutritional information is based on an estimate and may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients and brand used. It’s crucial to note that homemade ranch dressings often utilize different variations in ingredients, impacting the final nutritional profile. This breakdown provides a reasonable approximation for a commonly prepared batch.

• Calories: 306 kcal – These calories primarily stem from the protein content of the chicken and the fat content of the ranch dressing. The chicken, being a lean protein source, contributes significantly to the overall calorie count. The ranch dressing, while offering a delicious flavor, adds considerable calories due to the mayonnaise and potentially other ingredients like buttermilk and herbs.
• Carbohydrates: 8g – Carbohydrates are derived primarily from the buttermilk in the ranch dressing and, to a smaller extent, from the starches present in some of the herbs and spices used in the ranch seasoning. It’s important to consider that some brands might incorporate added sugars to enhance the flavor; this will increase the carbohydrate content.
• Protein: 31g – This is the star of the show! Chicken tenderloins are a fantastic source of lean protein, crucial for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and promoting satiety. The protein content is a significant draw for many consumers seeking a healthy meal option.
• Fat: 16g – The fat content primarily comes from the mayonnaise in the ranch dressing and, to a lesser extent, from the natural fat present in the chicken. Pay attention to the type of oil used in the ranch – olive oil, canola oil, or vegetable oil all have different profiles.
• Saturated Fat: 4g – Saturated fat originates from the dairy components – primarily the mayonnaise. Excessive consumption of saturated fat is linked to increased LDL (bad) cholesterol levels; moderation is recommended.
• Polyunsaturated Fat: 4g – This category includes essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, which are beneficial for heart health and overall well-being. The type of oil utilized in the ranch dressing will influence the level of these healthy fats.
• Monounsaturated Fat: 6g – Similar to polyunsaturated fats, monounsaturated fats contribute to heart health. Olive oil, commonly found in many ranch dressing recipes, is rich in these beneficial fats.
• Trans Fat: 0.03g – Trans fats are generally avoided due to their negative impact on heart health. Most commercially produced ranch dressings minimize or eliminate trans fats.
• Cholesterol: 85mg – The cholesterol level is a consequence of the dairy ingredients. Maintaining a balanced dietary intake is crucial for managing cholesterol levels.
• Sodium: 706mg – Sodium content is a crucial consideration, particularly for individuals managing high blood pressure. Ranch dressings often contain significant amounts of sodium, primarily from salt and preservatives. Careful monitoring and opting for low-sodium varieties are advisable.
• Potassium: 543mg – Potassium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in regulating blood pressure, maintaining fluid balance, and supporting nerve function. Chicken and buttermilk contribute to the potassium content of the dish.
• Fiber: 1g – Fiber aids in digestion, promotes satiety, and helps regulate blood sugar levels. The fiber content is primarily derived from the buttermilk and any herbs or spices used.
• Sugar: 2g – Sugar may be added to the ranch dressing to enhance the flavor. The amount varies based on the recipe, and excessive sugar intake should be avoided.
• Vitamin A: 146IU – Vitamin A is crucial for vision, immune function, and cell growth. Chicken is a natural source of vitamin A.
• Vitamin C: 2mg – Vitamin C is an antioxidant that supports immune function and collagen synthesis. The chicken tenderloins offer a small but helpful dose of vitamin C.
• Calcium: 104mg – Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth. Buttermilk is a good source of calcium.
• Iron: 1mg – Iron is a vital mineral that is crucial for transporting oxygen in the blood. The chicken tenderloins provide a modest amount of iron.

Disclaimer: This nutritional information is an estimate and should not be considered definitive. Precise values may vary. Consult a registered dietitian or nutritionist for personalized dietary advice.

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