Parmesan Chicken Tenders Recipe with Onion Dip
This Parmesan Chicken Tenders recipe features crispy, cheesy chicken strips paired with a creamy and tangy onion dip, perfect for family dinners, snacks, or appetizers. It is quick to prepare and uses simple everyday ingredients.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders skinless, boneless
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk or any plant-based alternative
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil for frying
For the Onion Dip:
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt for a lighter option
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 small onion finely grated or minced
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by setting up three shallow bowls or plates. In the first bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined. In the second bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. The third bowl will remain empty for placing the coated tenders before cooking.
- Take each chicken tender and dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring it is completely coated. Then press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure each piece is evenly coated with the cheesy, seasoned panko. Place the coated tenders on the empty plate and repeat with all the chicken tenders.
- Heat the olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the breaded chicken tenders to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the coating is golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the tenders and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
- While the chicken cooks, prepare the onion dip. In a small bowl, combine the sour cream, mayonnaise, finely grated onion, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. For extra freshness, sprinkle some chopped chives or parsley on top.
- Serve the warm Parmesan chicken tenders alongside the creamy onion dip. These are fantastic on their own or paired with a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or your favorite dipping sauces for variety. Enjoy the crispy, cheesy goodness with that delightful dollop of onion dip!
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Three shallow bowls or plates
- Paper Towel-lined Plate
- Small Bowl
Notes
Use panko breadcrumbs for the crispiest coating and ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. Avoid overcrowding the pan and consider baking the tenders at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes as a healthier alternative. Let the chicken rest after cooking to stay juicy, and grate the onion finely for the dip to enhance flavor. The recipe is versatile with options for spicy, herbaceous, gluten-free, and different dip variations.