Oh my gosh, let me tell you about these Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip—they’re the crispy, cheesy bites of heaven that saved my sanity last week when the kids had friends over. I was scrambling for something quick but impressive, and this recipe delivered big time. That golden parmesan crust gets beautifully crisp in the oven (no messy frying!), while the creamy garlic dip adds just the right zing. These tenders disappear fast at parties, but they’re also perfect for those “I need dinner NOW” weeknights. Trust me, once you hear that first crunch, you’ll understand why this dish became my go-to crowd-pleaser.

Why You’ll Love These Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip

Let me count the ways these crispy delights will steal your heart (and probably your dinner plate):

• That crunch! The parmesan-breadcrumb crust bakes up golden and shatteringly crisp without deep frying
• Ready in under 40 minutes – because hungry kids (or adults) shouldn’t have to wait
• The garlic dip is ridiculously addictive – I’ve caught people eating it with a spoon
• Perfect for pickiest eaters (my nephew who “hates chicken” devoured three helpings)
• Works hot or room temp – ideal for lunchboxes and picnics

Honestly? These tenders disappear faster than I can make them. You’ve been warned!

Ingredients for Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip

Here’s everything you’ll need to make these crispy little wonders – I’ve learned through trial and error that quality ingredients really make a difference here:

• 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8-10 pieces) – look for plump, even-sized ones
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese – the real fresh stuff, not the powdery kind in the green can!
• 1 cup breadcrumbs – panko gives the best crunch, but regular works too
• 1 tsp garlic powder – this is our flavor powerhouse
• 1 tsp paprika – for that beautiful golden color
• 1/2 tsp salt – I use kosher salt for better distribution

1/2 tsp black pepper – freshly ground if you can

• 2 eggs – large, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup olive oil – extra virgin for drizzling

For that irresistible garlic dip (trust me, you’ll want extra):

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise – full fat for best texture
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – fresh is non-negotiable here
• 1 tbsp lemon juice – about half a juicy lemon

Pro tip: Measure everything before starting – it makes the coating process so much smoother when you’re not scrambling!

Equipment You’ll Need

Don’t worry—this recipe keeps things simple with basic kitchen tools you probably already have:

• Baking sheet (a rimmed one keeps oil from dripping)
• Parchment paper – lifesaver for easy cleanup
• 2 mixing bowls – one for eggs, one for the crispy coating
• Measuring cups & spoons – eyeballing the parmesan never ends well
• Tongs or fork for flipping those golden beauties
• Small bowl & whisk for whipping up that garlicky dip

That’s it! No fancy gadgets needed—just good old-fashioned hands-on cooking.

How to Make Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip

Okay, let’s get these crispy beauties in the oven! I’ll walk you through each step like we’re cooking together in my kitchen. The key here is taking your time with the coating – that’s where the magic happens!

Preparing the Chicken Coating

First, grab a large mixing bowl and combine your breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. I like to use a fork to fluff it all together – you want every breadcrumb coated with cheese and spices. The mixture should look evenly speckled with spices and smell amazing. In another bowl, beat those eggs until they’re completely smooth with no streaks.

Tip: If your coating seems too dry, add an extra tablespoon of parmesan. Too wet? A sprinkle more breadcrumbs. It should hold together when pressed but still look crumbly.

Baking the Chicken Tenders

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) – this is crucial for that perfect crisp! Line your baking sheet with parchment paper (my secret for no-stick disasters). Now the fun part: dip each tender first in the egg, letting excess drip off, then press firmly into the coating mixture. Really coat it well – I rotate and press a few times until every inch is covered.

Arrange them on the baking sheet with some space between (they shouldn’t touch!) and drizzle lightly with olive oil. This helps them get that gorgeous golden color. Bake for 10 minutes, then carefully flip each tender with tongs. Bake another 10-15 minutes until they’re deeply golden and the chicken reaches 165°F inside.

Making the Garlic Dip

While those tenders crisp up, let’s make the dip that’ll have everyone licking their fingers. In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise with minced garlic and lemon juice. Start with the juice of half a lemon – you can add more after tasting. I like to let it sit for 5 minutes so the garlic flavor mellows slightly.

Warning: This dip is garlicky in the best way possible! If you’re sensitive, start with one clove. Want extra zing? Add a pinch of salt or a dash of hot sauce. The dip thickens as it chills, so I usually make it first and let it hang out in the fridge.

Tips for Perfect Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip

After making these tenders more times than I can count, here are my hard-earned secrets for guaranteed success:

• Panko power: Swap regular breadcrumbs for panko – that extra flaky texture makes all the difference in crunch!
• Temperature check: Don’t guess – use a meat thermometer! Chicken should hit 165°F at the thickest part.
• Freshly grate your parmesan – pre-grated often has anti-caking agents that affect texture
• Serve piping hot: These babies lose their crisp magic if they sit too long
• Dip ahead: Make the garlic sauce 30 minutes early so flavors meld beautifully

Bonus tip: If coating sticks to your fingers, keep one hand for wet ingredients and one for dry – total game changer!

Variations for Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Don’t be afraid to play with this recipe! For my low-carb friends, swap breadcrumbs with almond flour (extra protein bonus). Craving Italian vibes? Mix in 1 tbsp dried Italian herbs with the coating. Spice lovers should try adding cayenne or chili flakes – my husband demands this version weekly. Gluten-free? Just use GF breadcrumbs. The beauty is how easily these adapt while staying irresistibly crispy.

Serving Suggestions

These crispy tenders shine brightest with simple sides that let that parmesan crunch take center stage! I love them with:

• A bright arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Roasted garlic green beans or zucchini fries
• Extra dipping options like marinara or honey mustard
• For kids – classic steamed carrots and apple slices

Pro tip: Serve on a wooden board with the dip in small bowls – makes for perfect sharing!

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Here’s how to keep those tenders crispy for round two (if there are any leftovers!): Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For reheating magic, skip the microwave – it’ll make them soggy. Instead, pop them in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 5-7 minutes until hot and crisp again. The garlic dip stays fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days – just give it a stir before serving.

Nutritional Information

Each serving (about 3 tenders with dip) packs a satisfying crunch with roughly 320 calories, 28g protein, and just 12g carbs. You’re looking at 18g fat (mostly the good kind from olive oil and parmesan) and 1g fiber. The garlic dip adds about 100 calories per tablespoon. Of course, these numbers can vary based on your exact ingredients – especially if you go wild with extra parmesan (no judgment here!). Always check labels if you’re tracking closely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just slice boneless, skinless fillets into 1-inch strips. They might need 2-3 extra minutes in the oven. I actually do this when tenders are pricey – just make sure all pieces are roughly the same thickness so they cook evenly.

How long does the garlic dip last in the fridge?
The dip stays fresh for about 5 days when stored in an airtight container. The garlic flavor actually gets better after a few hours! Just stir it well before serving. If it thickens too much, mix in a teaspoon of water or lemon juice to loosen it up.

Can I make these ahead and freeze them?
Yes – but with a trick! Freeze the unbaked coated tenders on a parchment-lined tray first (about 1 hour), then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready, bake from frozen at 375°F for 20-25 minutes. The garlic dip doesn’t freeze well though – make that fresh.

There you have it – my foolproof recipe for those crispy, cheesy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip that never fail to impress! Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or need the perfect party appetizer, these golden beauties always steal the show. I’d love to hear how yours turn out – tag me on social media with your crispy creations or leave a comment below. Trust me, once you hear that first satisfying crunch and taste that garlicky dip, this recipe will become your new kitchen staple just like it did for me. Now go forth and bake up some crispy magic!

Crispy Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with Garlic Dip – 40 Minute Magic

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• Author: Christina R. Jones
• Total Time: 40 mins
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Low Carb

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Description

Crispy parmesan-crusted chicken tenders served with a creamy garlic dip.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 eggs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp lemon juice

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a bowl, mix parmesan, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Beat eggs in a separate bowl.
4. Dip each chicken tender in eggs, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through.
8. For the dip, mix mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
9. Serve chicken tenders hot with the garlic dip.

Notes

• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
• Adjust garlic in the dip to taste.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 25 mins
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baked
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving (3 tenders)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: parmesan chicken, chicken tenders, garlic dip, baked chicken