Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a delightful twist on the classic Chicken Parmesan, offering a simpler and quicker way to enjoy this beloved Italian-American dish. By using breaded chicken tenders instead of traditional chicken cutlets, this recipe cuts down on preparation time without sacrificing flavor. The tenders are baked until crispy, then topped with rich marinara sauce, a blend of freshly shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, and finally garnished with fresh basil or parsley. The result is a dish that delivers the same comforting flavors as the original, but with less fuss.
This dish has gained popularity for its ease of preparation and versatility. It’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and satisfying on the table quickly. Despite its simplicity, Chicken Tenders Parmesan doesn’t compromise on taste, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with pasta, a crisp salad, or garlic bread for a complete meal that’s both comforting and delicious.
Ingredients Breakdown
When making Chicken Tenders Parmesan, each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a dish that is not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare. Here’s a closer look at the key components:
Chicken Tenders
The star of this dish is the chicken tenders. Opting for breaded chicken tenders simplifies the cooking process, as they are already pre-coated and often pre-cooked, allowing you to focus on assembling the dish rather than preparing it from scratch. Breaded tenders provide a crispy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the tender chicken inside, creating a satisfying texture. If you prefer to make your own breaded chicken tenders, you can coat fresh chicken strips in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs before baking or frying them. This homemade approach allows for greater control over the seasoning and texture, ensuring a more personalized flavor.
Marinara Sauce
A good marinara sauce is essential for adding depth and richness to the dish. The sauce should be flavorful, with a balance of tanginess from the tomatoes and sweetness from any added ingredients like onions or carrots. Store-bought marinara sauces are convenient and can be high-quality, with many options available that include natural ingredients and minimal preservatives. However, if you have the time, making homemade marinara allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking, adding herbs, garlic, and other seasonings to create a sauce that perfectly complements the chicken and cheese.
Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese
The combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses is what gives this dish its signature cheesy goodness. Parmesan, with its sharp and nutty flavor, adds depth and a salty bite, while mozzarella provides a creamy, melty texture that makes every bite indulgent. Using freshly shredded cheese is recommended for the best flavor and meltability, as pre-shredded cheeses often contain additives that can prevent smooth melting. The balance between these two cheeses is crucial, as it creates a rich, gooey topping that ties all the flavors together.
Fresh Herbs
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are the finishing touch that elevates Chicken Tenders Parmesan from ordinary to extraordinary. Basil brings a sweet, aromatic flavor that pairs beautifully with the marinara sauce and cheese, while parsley offers a fresh, slightly peppery taste that brightens the dish. These herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color, making the dish more visually appealing. Using fresh herbs instead of dried ensures a more vibrant taste, contributing to the overall freshness and complexity of the dish.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Preparing Chicken Tenders Parmesan requires a few essential kitchen tools to ensure the dish comes together seamlessly and cooks evenly.
Baking Dish
A 13” x 9” baking dish is ideal for this recipe because it provides ample space for laying out the chicken tenders in a single layer. This size ensures that the tenders cook evenly, allowing heat to circulate around each piece, resulting in a crispy exterior. A smaller dish might overcrowd the tenders, leading to uneven cooking and sogginess, while a larger dish could cause the sauce and cheese to spread too thin.
Microwave/Saucepan
You’ll need either a microwave or a saucepan to warm the marinara sauce before adding it to the chicken tenders. Warming the sauce ensures that the dish heats evenly during the final bake and that the cheese melts smoothly over the tenders. Using a microwave is quick and convenient, but a saucepan offers more control over the sauce’s temperature and consistency, especially if you’re using or making a homemade version.
Oven
The oven is crucial for baking the chicken tenders to the perfect crispness and for melting the cheese. Preheating the oven to 425°F is essential because this high temperature allows the tenders to crisp up quickly while retaining their juiciness. It also ensures that the cheese melts evenly and becomes bubbly without overcooking or drying out the chicken. This temperature strikes the right balance between achieving a golden crust and maintaining the dish’s overall moisture and flavor.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preparation of the Chicken Tenders
Preheating the Oven:
Preheating your oven to 425°F/204°C is essential to ensure the chicken tenders bake evenly and develop a crispy exterior. Starting with a hot oven allows the tenders to cook through quickly, preserving their juiciness while achieving a golden, crunchy coating. Without preheating, the tenders may take longer to cook, leading to uneven textures—soggy on the outside or dry on the inside.
Arranging the Chicken Tenders:
When arranging the chicken tenders in the baking dish, make sure to lay them out in a single layer with a small amount of space between each piece. This arrangement promotes even heat distribution around each tender, ensuring they all cook at the same rate. Overlapping or overcrowding the tenders can result in uneven cooking, with some tenders becoming soggy rather than crisp.
Baking the Tenders:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake the tenders for about 25 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy. To check for doneness, look for a golden-brown color and listen for a slight crackling sound, indicating that the breading has become crisp. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), confirming that the tenders are fully cooked. If necessary, you can bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve the desired crispness.
Preparing the Marinara Sauce
Heating the Sauce:
Warming the marinara sauce before adding it to the chicken tenders is a crucial step. This can be done quickly in the microwave or more slowly on the stovetop. If using a microwave, transfer the sauce to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. On the stovetop, pour the sauce into a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot and steamy.
Flavor Enhancements:
To personalize the marinara sauce, consider adding extra seasonings or ingredients. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat, while a splash of red wine can deepen the sauce’s flavor. Fresh garlic, sautéed in olive oil before adding the sauce, can introduce a rich, aromatic layer. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, a small amount of sugar or honey can balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Fresh or dried Italian herbs like oregano or thyme can also be stirred in for added complexity.
Assembling the Chicken Tenders Parmesan
Adding the Marinara Sauce:
Once the tenders are baked and crispy, remove the dish from the oven and carefully spoon the warmed marinara sauce over each piece. Aim to cover the tenders evenly, but avoid drowning them in sauce—too much can make the tenders soggy. A light but thorough coating ensures that every bite is flavorful without compromising the crisp texture of the tenders.
Cheese Layering:
Next, sprinkle a layer of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese over the sauced tenders, followed by a generous layer of shredded mozzarella. The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor, while the mozzarella provides the creamy, melty texture that makes this dish so satisfying. To achieve the best melt, ensure the cheese is evenly distributed over the tenders. Using freshly shredded cheese instead of pre-shredded options will result in a smoother, more consistent melt, as it lacks the anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
Adding Fresh Herbs:
For a final touch, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the cheese. It’s best to add the herbs just before the final bake to maintain their vibrant color and fresh flavor. If you prefer a stronger herb flavor, you can also mix some into the marinara sauce before adding it to the tenders.
Baking and Finishing Touches
Final Bake:
After assembling the dish, return it to the oven for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is hot, bubbly, and lightly browned. This final bake melds the flavors together, allowing the sauce to infuse the chicken with its rich, tangy taste, while the cheese becomes gooey and golden.
Cheese Melting:
Keep an eye on the cheese as it melts, checking after 15 minutes to ensure it doesn’t overcook. The mozzarella should be fully melted and slightly golden on top, while the Parmesan should add a light, crispy texture. If the cheese hasn’t browned to your liking, you can switch to the broil setting for the last 2-3 minutes, but watch closely to avoid burning.
Serving Suggestions:
Chicken Tenders Parmesan pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, tossed with a bit of olive oil or additional marinara sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, while garlic bread or a crusty baguette offers a satisfying crunch. For a more comforting meal, pair it with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.
Tips and Variations
Variations:
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing for a range of variations based on your preferences. You can experiment with different cheeses like provolone or fontina for a unique flavor profile. For a spicier version, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce. Vegetables such as sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers can be layered between the sauce and cheese for added texture and nutrients.
Cooking Tips:
To enhance the flavor further, consider marinating the chicken tenders in Italian dressing or a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and herbs before breading. If you’re making your own breaded tenders, add grated Parmesan or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumbs for extra flavor. For a healthier version, use low-fat mozzarella and reduce the amount of cheese, or opt for a whole-grain breading on the tenders.
Make-Ahead Instructions:
To save time, you can prepare parts of this dish in advance. Bread the chicken tenders and store them in the refrigerator for up to a day before baking. The marinara sauce can also be made ahead and kept in the fridge for up to 3 days, or frozen for longer storage. Assemble the dish just before the final bake to maintain the best texture.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Content:
Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a rich and satisfying dish. On average, one serving (about 2 tenders with sauce and cheese) contains approximately 400-500 calories. The exact count can vary depending on the type and amount of cheese, the thickness of the breading, and the quantity of marinara sauce used.
Macronutrients:
In terms of macronutrients, each serving provides a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. You can expect around 25-30 grams of protein per serving, primarily from the chicken and cheese. The fat content, largely from the cheese, ranges from 20-25 grams, depending on the type and quantity used. Carbohydrates, mostly from the breading and sauce, contribute about 25-30 grams per serving.
Potential Modifications:
For those looking to make this dish healthier, several modifications can be made. Reducing the amount of cheese or using a lower-fat version will cut down on calories and fat. Opting for whole-grain breadcrumbs and a low-sugar marinara sauce can also improve the dish’s nutritional profile. Additionally, serving the tenders with a side of vegetables instead of pasta can increase fiber content and lower the overall calorie count.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! Provolone and fontina are excellent substitutes for mozzarella, offering a similar melt and creamy texture. Provolone provides a slightly sharper flavor, while fontina adds a mild, buttery richness. You can also experiment with other cheeses like gouda or asiago for a unique twist.
What sides go well with Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Italian sides like pasta, particularly spaghetti or penne, lightly tossed in olive oil or additional marinara sauce. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is also a great choice for soaking up the extra sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers should be refrigerated in an airtight container. For best results, consume within 2-3 days. To reheat, place the tenders in an oven-safe dish and warm at 350°F until heated through, or microwave in short intervals to avoid overcooking.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, Chicken Tenders Parmesan can be frozen. After assembling but before the final bake, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F for about 45 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
What other herbs can I use?
In addition to basil or parsley, you can experiment with oregano, thyme, or rosemary. Oregano offers a robust, earthy flavor, while thyme and rosemary add a fragrant, slightly woodsy note. Each herb brings a different dimension to the dish, allowing for personalization based on your taste preferences.
Chicken Tenders Parmesan
Description
Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a quick and easy take on the classic Chicken Parmesan, using breaded chicken tenders as the base. This dish combines the rich flavors of marinara sauce with a gooey, cheesy topping of Parmesan and mozzarella, all finished with fresh herbs. It’s a perfect option for a family dinner or a casual gathering, offering the comforting taste of traditional Chicken Parmesan with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 8 Breaded Chicken Tenders
- 2 Cups Marinara Sauce
- ⅓ Cup Freshly Shredded Parmesan Cheese
- 4 Ounces Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
- 2 Teaspoons Freshly Chopped Basil or Parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (204°C). This step ensures the chicken tenders bake evenly and become crispy. - Arrange the Chicken Tenders:
Lightly grease a 13” x 9” baking dish and lay out the chicken tenders in a single layer. This arrangement allows for even cooking and crisping. - Bake the Tenders:
Bake the chicken tenders for 25 minutes, or until they are hot and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). - Prepare the Marinara Sauce:
While the tenders bake, warm the marinara sauce. You can do this in the microwave by heating on high for 1-2 minutes, or on the stovetop over medium-low heat until hot and steamy. - Assemble the Dish:
Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and spoon the warmed marinara sauce evenly over each tender. Sprinkle with shredded Parmesan, then add a layer of mozzarella. Top with freshly chopped basil or parsley. - Final Bake:
Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned. - Serve:
Serve hot with your choice of sides, such as pasta, salad, or garlic bread.
Notes
This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to suit various preferences. If you prefer to make your own breaded chicken tenders, feel free to do so for a more personalized touch. Additionally, consider using homemade marinara sauce for a richer, more customized flavor. The dish can also be prepared in advance and stored for later use, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Serve with your favorite sides, such as pasta, salad, or garlic bread, for a complete and satisfying meal.
- Cheese Substitutes: You can use provolone or fontina cheese instead of mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble the dish before the final bake, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze for up to 3 months. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
- Herb Alternatives: If you don’t have basil or parsley, oregano, thyme, or rosemary are excellent alternatives that can add a unique twist to the dish.
