Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
There’s something undeniably delightful about crispy chicken tenders, especially when they are bursting with flavor. Our Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders take the classic favorite to new heights, combining tender chicken with a rich garlic and herb coating. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or game day gathering, these tenders are sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the irresistible world of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders!
Why This Recipe Works
This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe brings together an ideal blend of flavors and textures. The marination in buttermilk and dill pickle juice ensures that the chicken remains juicy and tender, while the crispy, flavorful coating offers a satisfying crunch. The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese elevates the dish, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
Ingredient Rundown
- 2 lbs. chicken tenders: The star of the show! Choose fresh, high-quality chicken for the best results.
- Vegetable oil: Used for frying, it helps achieve that golden, crispy exterior.
- 1 cup buttermilk: This adds moisture and flavor while tenderizing the chicken.
- ½ cup dill pickle juice: A secret ingredient that adds a tangy kick and enhances the chicken’s juiciness.
- 1 tsp. garlic powder: Essential for that garlic flavor throughout the dish.
- 1 tsp. salt: Enhances all the flavors in the coating and the chicken.
- ¼ tsp. black pepper: A touch of spice to complement the garlic.
- ¼ tsp. paprika: Adds a hint of smokiness and color to the breading.
- 4 cups all-purpose flour: The base for the breading that gives that crunchy texture.
- 1 tsp. onion powder: Deepens the flavor profile of the coating.
- 1 tsp. cayenne pepper: For those who love a little heat!
- 1 tsp. garlic and herb seasoning: A blend of flavors that complements the Parmesan.
- 1 tbsp. Lawry’s seasoning: A flavorful seasoning mix that enhances the overall taste.
- ¼ tsp. ground black pepper: Additional seasoning for the coating.
- 1 stick butter, melted: Adds richness and helps the coating stick.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: The star of the cheesy aspect of the breading.
- 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley: A pop of color and freshness to finish off the dish.
- 1 tsp. garlic powder: A final touch to enhance the garlic flavor.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Large mixing bowl: For marinating the chicken and mixing the coating.
- Shallow dishes: Perfect for setting up a breading station.
- Frying pan or deep fryer: Necessary for achieving that crispy texture.
- Cooking thermometer: To ensure the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
- Slotted spoon or tongs: For safely removing the chicken from the hot oil.
- Cooling rack: Helps keep the tenders crispy as they cool.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, Made Easy
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and dill pickle juice. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if time allows. This step is crucial for achieving tender, flavorful chicken.
Step 2: Prepare the Breading
While the chicken is marinating, set up your breading station. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, garlic and herb seasoning, Lawry’s seasoning, paprika, and ground black pepper. In another shallow dish, combine the melted butter with the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining garlic powder.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. One by one, take each tender and first coat it in the seasoned flour mixture, shaking off any excess. Then dip it into the Parmesan butter mixture, allowing any extra to drip off, and finally back into the flour mixture for a second coating. Place the breaded tenders on a plate or baking sheet.
Step 4: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C). This temperature is crucial for achieving that perfect golden-brown crust.
Step 5: Fry the Chicken
Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary to avoid crowding the pan. Fry the tenders for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a slotted spoon or tongs to remove the chicken from the oil and transfer it to a cooling rack.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Once all the chicken tenders are fried, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Make It Fit Your Plan
- Gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
- Lower sodium: Opt for low-sodium versions of buttermilk and seasonings.
- Spicy: Increase the cayenne pepper for added heat or add hot sauce to the marinade.
- Baked option: Instead of frying, bake the tenders at 400°F (200°C) on a greased baking sheet for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Steer Clear of These
- Avoid overcooking the chicken, as this can lead to dry tenders.
- Do not skip the marination step; it plays a vital role in flavor and tenderness.
- Be cautious with the oil temperature; too hot can burn the coating, while too cool will make it greasy.
- Don’t rush the breading process; make sure each tender is well-coated for the best texture.
Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide
Store any leftover Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven preheated to 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.
Troubleshooting Q&A
Why are my chicken tenders not crispy?
Make sure the oil is hot enough before adding the chicken. If the oil is too cool, the tenders will absorb oil and become soggy.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, you can! Just ensure to slice the chicken breasts into similar-sized strips for even cooking.
What dipping sauces pair best with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders?
Some great options include ranch dressing, honey mustard, or a spicy Sriracha mayo for a flavorful kick.
How do I prevent the coating from falling off?
Ensure that the chicken is well-coated in the flour mixture before dipping it in the butter and back into the flour. Also, avoid flipping the tenders too early while frying.
Serve with These
Make It Tonight
Now that you have the full recipe for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, it’s time to bring your family together around the dinner table. With its perfect crunch and rich flavor, this dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a plate full of deliciousness. Trust us, once you make these Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders, they will become a regular on your dinner rotation. Enjoy!
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the buttermilk and dill pickle juice. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight if time allows.
- While the chicken is marinating, set up your breading station. In a shallow dish, mix together the flour, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, garlic and herb seasoning, Lawry's seasoning, paprika, and ground black pepper. In another shallow dish, combine the melted butter with the grated Parmesan cheese and the remaining garlic powder.
- Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator. One by one, take each tender and coat it in the seasoned flour mixture, then dip it into the Parmesan butter mixture, and back into the flour mixture for a second coating.
- In a large frying pan or deep fryer, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F (175°C).
- Carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the hot oil, working in batches if necessary. Fry for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once all the chicken tenders are fried, garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free flour blend.
- To lower sodium, use low-sodium versions of buttermilk and seasonings.
- For extra spice, increase the cayenne pepper or add hot sauce to the marinade.
