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Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders for Picky Elementary School Kids

Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders for Picky Elementary School Kids

These Crispy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders are a family-friendly favorite featuring juicy chicken coated in a crunchy Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust seasoned with garlic and savory spices. Perfect for picky elementary school kids, these homemade chicken tenders are easy to prepare, healthier than many store-bought options, and ideal for weeknight dinners, school lunches, parties, or after-school snacks.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 18 minutes
Chill Time 10 minutes
Total Time 48 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Kid-Friendly Meal, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1½ pounds chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts cut into strips
  • For the Flour Coating
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For the Egg Wash
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons milk
For the Crispy Garlic Parmesan Coating
  • 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • 3 shallow bowls for breading
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Wire rack (optional)
  • Air fryer (optional)
  • Tongs
  • Meat thermometer

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
  1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. If using chicken breasts, slice them into evenly sized strips.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Station
  1. Place the flour, salt, and pepper in the first bowl.
  2. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk.
  3. In the third bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Bread the Chicken
  1. Coat each piece of chicken in the flour mixture.
  2. Dip it into the egg mixture.
  3. Press it firmly into the Parmesan breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
  4. Place the breaded chicken on a tray or baking sheet.
Step 4: Rest the Chicken
  1. Allow the coated chicken to rest for 10 minutes. This helps the coating adhere better during cooking.
Step 5: Bake the Chicken
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
  3. Lightly spray or brush with olive oil.
  4. Bake for 10 minutes.
  5. Flip and continue baking for 8–10 minutes, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. Air Fryer Alternative
  7. Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
  8. Arrange the chicken tenders in a single layer.
  9. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
  10. Cook for 8 minutes.
  11. Flip and cook for an additional 5–7 minutes until crispy and fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve
  1. Allow the tenders to rest for 3–5 minutes before serving.
  2. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as ranch, honey mustard, ketchup, or barbecue sauce.

Notes

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese provides the best flavor and crispiest coating.
Panko breadcrumbs create a crunchier texture than traditional breadcrumbs.
Do not overcrowd the baking sheet or air fryer basket.
For extra crispiness, place the chicken on a wire rack while baking.
Chicken tenders can be breaded up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days.
Freeze cooked or uncooked breaded tenders for up to 3 months.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.