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These Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders have become my secret weapon for getting dinner on the table when everyone's starving. The combination of cheddar and parmesan creates this amazing golden crust that's so crispy you'd never guess they're baked. My family crowds around the kitchen asking when they'll be ready the moment that cheesy aroma fills the air.
Why You'll Love Them
The beauty of these tenders is how simple they are to make yet they taste like they're from a restaurant. That cheese creates the most incredible crispy coating without any need for frying. I love that I can pop them in lunch boxes the next day and they still taste amazing. Even my pickiest eater asks for seconds when these are on the menu.
Ingredients Needed
- Chicken: 1 lb chicken tenderloins, fresh
- Cheeses: 2 cups sharp cheddar (freshly shredded), 1/2 cup grated parmesan
- Coating: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
- Egg Wash: 2 large eggs, 1/4 cup milk
- Seasonings: 1 tsp salt, 1/2 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder
- Cooking Spray: For crispiness
- Optional Equipment: Wire rack, baking sheet, aluminum foil
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Kitchen
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil and set a wire rack on top if available. Spray with cooking oil.
- Set Up Your Breading Station
- Prepare three bowls: one with flour, salt, pepper, and garlic powder; one with whisked eggs and milk; and one with panko breadcrumbs, cheddar, and parmesan.
- Bread the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry. Dredge in flour, dip in egg wash, and coat in the cheesy breadcrumb mixture, ensuring even coverage.
- Arrange for Baking
- Place breaded chicken on the prepared pan, spacing pieces apart. Lightly spray the tops with cooking oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake
- Bake 15–20 minutes on a wire rack or 8 minutes per side if baking directly on foil. Check internal temperature for 165°F.
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Kitchen Secrets for Success
My game-changing discovery was using that wire rack it makes such a difference in getting that perfect crispy coating all around. Don't skimp on the cooking spray either it helps achieve that gorgeous golden brown color. I always keep a meat thermometer handy just to be sure they're cooked through while staying juicy.
Serving Ideas
We love these alongside creamy mac and cheese on cozy nights or with a bright zucchini salad when we're craving something lighter. My kids go crazy for the honey mustard dipping sauce while my husband prefers his with spicy mayo. They're so versatile you really can't go wrong with any sides.
Make-Ahead Tips
On busy days I bread all the chicken in the morning and keep it ready in the fridge. Just pop them in the oven when it's dinner time. Leftovers reheat beautifully in the oven they actually stay pretty crispy. I've started making extra just to have them for easy lunches through the week.
Customization Ideas
Sometimes I'll mix in some paprika for extra color or cayenne when we want a kick. My Italian version with mozzarella and herbs is another family favorite. When my gluten-free friend visits I use almond flour and it works perfectly you'd never know the difference.
Final Thoughts
These chicken tenders have saved dinner time in my house more times than I can count. That perfect combination of crispy coating melty cheese and tender chicken just can't be beat. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping for the week this recipe is guaranteed to make everyone happy.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
- While best served fresh and hot, you can bread the tenders ahead and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. They can also be reheated in a 350°F oven until crispy again.
- → Why aren't my tenders getting crispy?
- Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F. Using a rack helps air circulate, creating even crispiness. Also ensure you're not overcrowding the pan.
- → Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
- Fresh shredded cheese works best as it melts better and creates a crispier coating. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- → What dipping sauces work well?
- These tenders pair great with ranch, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or buffalo sauce. The cheesy coating adds flavor that complements most dips.
- → Can I freeze these tenders?
- You can freeze them after baking. Cool completely, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Reheat in a 375°F oven until hot and crispy.