chicken parmesan recipe with chicken tenders

The Best chicken parmesan recipe with chicken tenders

This chicken parmesan recipe with chicken tenders is one of my all-time favorites—simple, satisfying, and always a hit with my family. There’s something about the crispy breaded chicken, the rich melted cheese, and the savory tomato sauce that makes it feel like a special meal, even when it’s just sitting on the counter waiting to be made. My kids love it because it’s easy to eat, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser at family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. It’s that kind of dish that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated steps, yet it still feels indulgent. Plus, it’s versatile—you can make it a full meal or serve it alongside a side salad or garlic bread, and it always works.

I love this recipe because it’s balanced—there’s protein from the chicken tenders, healthy fats from the cheese and olive oil, and fiber from the veggies in the sauce. It’s not too heavy, but it still feels comforting, which is why my family goes back to it time and time again. Whether it’s a weekend dinner or a quick meal after a long day, this dish never disappoints. The kids especially enjoy it because it’s fun to dip their tenders into the sauce, and the breaded crust gives them that satisfying crunch. It’s a recipe that’s perfect for feeding a crowd, too—it’s hearty enough for a family meal but still easy to portion out for individual servings. Plus, the flavors are so good that everyone forgets it’s actually pretty healthy, too. It’s that kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re getting the best of both worlds.

Chicken Parmesan with Crispy Chicken Tenders

4.9 from 1463 votes

A delicious and comforting dish featuring crispy breaded chicken tenders topped with melted cheese and tomato sauce, perfect for a family meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time35 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time55 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 420 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken Tenders

• 8 boneless, skinless chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp milk
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs

For the Sauce

• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella (for topping)
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. 2 In a shallow bowl, whisk egg and milk. In another bowl, mix flour, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. 3 Dip each chicken tender in the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly in the flour mixture. Place on the baking sheet.
4. 4 Bake for 15 minutes, then flip and bake for another 10-12 minutes until golden and crispy.
5. 5 While chicken bakes, heat tomato sauce in a saucepan with garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Simmer for 5 minutes.
6. 6 Spoon sauce over baked chicken tenders. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
7. 7 Return to oven for 2-3 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Baking sheet
• Oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork or chicken tender press
• Wire rack (optional)

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 420 kcal🧈Total Fat: 18💛Saturated Fat: 8❤️Cholesterol: 120🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 35🥦Dietary Fiber: 3🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 35

📝Notes

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This chicken parmesan with crispy tenders recipe is always a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings because it’s simple enough to make ahead while still feeling special. The tender chicken holds up well to baking, and the cheesy, saucy layers make it satisfying for kids and adults alike—perfect when you need a hearty dish that doesn’t require last-minute stress. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main or side, so you can adjust portions based on who’s eating.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Parmesan with Crispy Chicken Tenders

What is the best way to prepare chicken tenders for chicken parmesan?

To get crispy, golden chicken tenders for chicken parmesan, first pat them dry thoroughly with paper towels. Season them generously with salt and pepper, then coat them in a mixture of 1/4 cup all-purpose flour, 1 tbsp paprika, 1 tbsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp onion powder, and 1 tsp dried oregano. Heat 1/2 cup vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Fry the chicken tenders in batches for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Drain on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil before adding the sauce.

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How can I make the parmesan sauce smoother and thicker?

To achieve a smoother and thicker parmesan sauce, blend the sauce ingredients (2 cups marinara sauce, 1 cup grated parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp dried basil, and 1/2 tsp dried oregano) in a blender or food processor until completely smooth. For extra thickness, simmer the sauce for 5-10 minutes after blending, stirring occasionally. You can also reduce the sauce by simmering it on low heat for 10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

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What are some great substitutions for chicken tenders if I don’t have them?

If you don’t have chicken tenders, you can use any cut of chicken that holds its shape well. Some great alternatives include: – Breast strips: Cut boneless, skinless chicken breast into 1-inch strips. – Chicken thighs: Cut into bite-sized pieces and season well. – Chicken breast halves: Cut into strips or cutlets and pan-fry until cooked through. – Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken: Shred or cut into strips for easy use. – Chicken nuggets: Lightly coat with breadcrumbs and pan-fry for a crispier texture.

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How do I ensure the chicken parmesan stays crispy on the outside while staying tender inside?

To keep the chicken parmesan crispy on the outside and tender inside, follow these steps: 1. Double-fry the chicken: After the initial fry, drain the chicken on a wire rack or paper towels to remove excess oil. Heat the oil again in a skillet and fry the chicken for another 1-2 minutes until extra crispy. 2. Use a high-heat pan: Cook the chicken in a well-heated skillet or oven pan to ensure a crispy exterior. 3. Bake the chicken: For oven-baked chicken parmesan, broil for 2-3 minutes at the end to crisp the top layer. 4. Keep the sauce warm: Warm the sauce just before serving to prevent sogginess. You can reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave. 5. Use a parchment paper trick: Place a piece of parchment paper under the chicken before adding the sauce to catch any drips and keep the top crispy.

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Can I make chicken parmesan ahead of time and still keep it delicious?

Yes, you can prepare chicken parmesan ahead of time, but you need to store and reheat it properly to maintain texture and flavor. Here’s how to do it: – Prep the chicken: Fry or bake the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. – Make the sauce: Prepare the marinara sauce and parmesan mixture, but do not combine them until ready to serve. Store the sauce separately in the fridge for up to 3 days. – Assemble and reheat: When ready to serve, assemble the chicken parmesan by placing the chicken on a baking sheet, drizzle with warm sauce, and top with cheese. Cover with foil and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes. Remove the foil and broil for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese and crisp the top. – Freezing option: You can freeze the assembled chicken parmesan for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen by baking at 375°F (190°C) for 45-50 minutes, adding 10-15 minutes if pre-baked.