Name: Chicken Tenders Parmesan
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders (approx. 8-10 pieces); 1/2 cup all‑purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1 cup breadcrumbs (Italian style or panko); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp dried oregano; Salt & pepper (to taste); 2 tbsp olive oil (or cooking spray); 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; Fresh parsley or basil (chopped, for garnish (optional))

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Chicken Tenders Parmesan transforms the classic Italian-American dish into a quick, cheesy, and satisfying meal. Crispy breaded tenders are baked with marinara sauce and melted cheese, creating a Cheesy Italian Comfort dish perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Ready in just 25 minutes, this family-friendly favorite is versatile and bursting with flavor.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Tenders Parmesan

This Chicken Tenders Parmesan recipe is a standout Cheesy Italian Comfort dish:

Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
Family-Friendly: Cheesy, crispy tenders appeal to kids and adults alike.
Versatile: Serve solo, over pasta, or in a sandwich.
Flavorful: Combines tangy marinara with gooey melted cheese.
I served this for a cozy dinner, and it was the ultimate Cheesy Italian Comfort hit!

Ingredients for Chicken Tenders Parmesan

Here’s what you’ll need for Chicken Tenders Parmesan (serves 4–6):

1 lb (450g) breaded chicken tenders (frozen or fresh)
1½ cups (360ml) marinara sauce
1½ cups (150g) shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup (25g) grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: 1 tsp Italian seasoning, ½ tsp garlic powder, fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Ingredient Tips:

Chicken Tenders: Frozen pre-breaded tenders save time; fresh can be coated with breadcrumbs.
Marinara: Use homemade or store-bought; thicker sauces cling better.
Cheese: Freshly shredded mozzarella melts smoothly; pre-shredded works too.
Seasonings: Optional spices enhance flavor; adjust to taste.
Equipment: Baking dish (9×13-inch), oven, spoon, optional broiler.

Directions for Chicken Tenders Parmesan

Let’s create this delicious Chicken Tenders Parmesan!

Preheat Oven

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure even baking and a bubbly cheese topping.

Prepare Baking Dish

I spread ½ cup marinara sauce evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and add flavor.

Arrange Tenders

I place 1 lb breaded chicken tenders in a single layer over the sauce for this Chicken Tenders Parmesan recipe, ensuring even cooking.

Add Sauce and Cheese

I spoon 1 cup marinara sauce over the tenders, then sprinkle with 1½ cups shredded mozzarella and ¼ cup grated Parmesan. I add optional 1 tsp Italian seasoning or ½ tsp garlic powder for extra flavor.

Bake

I bake for 15–20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (165°F/74°C internally) and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Optionally, I broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden, crispy cheese top.

Garnish and Serve

I garnish with chopped fresh basil or parsley and serve hot, delivering a perfect Chicken Tenders Parmesan experience.

Nutrition

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4–6
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
Macros per Serving: 25g carbs, 30g protein, 15g fat, 2g fiber

Variations for Chicken Tenders Parmesan

Try these twists on Chicken Tenders Parmesan:

Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the marinara or cheese.
Low-Carb: Use unbreaded grilled tenders instead of breaded.
Extra Cheesy: Mix in ½ cup provolone or fontina for a richer melt.
Air Fryer: Cook tenders in an air fryer at 380°F for 8–10 minutes, then top with sauce and cheese and broil briefly.
Veggie Boost: Layer sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers under the cheese.

Storage

I store leftover Chicken Tenders Parmesan in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–12 minutes or microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through. For freezing, I assemble (uncooked) or freeze cooked tenders in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months, reheating in the oven for best texture.

Serving Ideas

Make your Chicken Tenders Parmesan a star Cheesy Italian Comfort dish:

Classic: Serve as a Cheesy Italian Comfort meal with extra marinara for dipping.
Garnish: Sprinkle with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color.
Pairing: Enjoy with pasta, garlic bread, or a crisp Caesar salad.
Presentation: Serve in the baking dish or plate individually for elegance.
Occasion: Perfect for weeknight dinners, family meals, or casual parties.

FAQs

Have questions about Chicken Tenders Parmesan? Here are answers to common queries:

What kind of chicken tenders should I use?
Frozen pre-breaded tenders are convenient; homemade breaded tenders add fresh flavor.

Can I use homemade marinara sauce?
Yes, homemade marinara works wonderfully and can be customized to taste.

How do I keep the tenders crispy?
Use minimal sauce on top and broil briefly for a crispy cheese layer.

Can I add vegetables?
Yes, layer sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers before the cheese.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Freeze assembled (uncooked) or cooked tenders for up to 3 months; reheat in the oven.

What cheeses melt best for this recipe?
Mozzarella is ideal; provolone or fontina adds a richer melt.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breaded tenders or coat with gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Does it need to be covered while baking?
No, bake uncovered to brown the cheese and keep tenders crisp.

What sides go well with Chicken Tenders Parmesan?
Pair with pasta, garlic bread, steamed veggies, or a green salad.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger baking dish and keep tenders in a single layer.

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Conclusion

Chicken Tenders Parmesan is a fast, cheesy, and deeply satisfying dinner solution that keeps prep simple without sacrificing flavor. Whether served over pasta or enjoyed solo, this Cheesy Italian Comfort meal is a go-to comfort dish you’ll want to make again and again.