If you’re looking for a dish that’s irresistibly crunchy on the outside, tender and juicy on the inside, and delivers a burst of flavor without any fuss, this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Greek Yogurt and Parmesan Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Combining the tangy creaminess of Greek yogurt with the savory punch of Parmesan cheese, these tenders bake up perfectly crispy without the need for deep frying. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll wonder why chicken tenders haven’t always been this delightfully easy and delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward pantry staples that work together to create incredible texture and flavor. Each component is chosen for its role—whether it’s to add moisture, crispiness, or a hint of herbaceous warmth, this simple list makes the whole process a breeze.
- 1 lb chicken tenders: The star of the dish, naturally tender and quick to cook.
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt: Adds tanginess and moisture while helping the coating stick perfectly.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Provide that satisfying crunch on the outside.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Packs in a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the breadcrumb mixture.
- 1 tbsp olive oil: Helps balance the yogurt’s tang and aids browning.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses the tenders with a subtle, aromatic punch.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: Brings earthy herbal notes that brighten the flavor profile.
- 1/2 tsp salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the ingredients together.
- 1/4 tsp black pepper: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Greek Yogurt and Parmesan Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your chicken tenders bake evenly and don’t stick—a small prep step that guarantees an easy cleanup and perfectly crisp bottoms.
Step 2: Make the Yogurt Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This mixture brings moisture and layers of flavor, ensuring each chicken tender is coated with a tangy, herbal richness before it meets the crunchy coating.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender thoroughly into the yogurt mixture, making sure it’s well covered. This step is crucial because the yogurt base not only adds flavor but acts as an adhesive for the crispy coating.
Step 4: Prepare the Parmesan Breadcrumb Coating
In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and the grated Parmesan cheese. This combo adds that essential golden crunch and a burst of savory depth from the cheese that makes these tenders truly irresistible.
Step 5: Bread the Chicken
Roll each yogurt-coated chicken tender in the breadcrumb-Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to help it stick. A good coating here will give you that satisfyingly crisp texture you’re craving.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Lay the coated chicken tenders evenly on your prepared baking sheet. Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, keeping an eye out for that perfect golden brown color. You’ll know they’re ready when the outside is crisp and the inside is juicy and cooked through.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, serve your crispy baked chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether it’s tangy honey mustard, classic ranch, or something spicy, these tenders pair beautifully and are guaranteed to please.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Greek Yogurt and Parmesan Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dusting of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving adds a fresh, inviting finish that highlights the flavors inside each tender. A wedge of lemon on the side can also bring a zesty brightness that cuts through the richness.
Side Dishes
These crispy tenders go wonderfully with a medley of simple sides like a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or even a warm, buttery mashed potato. For a fun family dinner, try pairing them with sweet potato fries or crunchy carrot sticks for some extra color and crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or casual get-together, serve these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Greek Yogurt and Parmesan Recipe on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces arranged in small bowls. You can also thread them onto skewers or nestle them into pita pockets with lettuce and tomatoes for a playful twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making them perfect for a quick lunch or snack the next day without losing their delicious flavor and texture.
Freezing
If you want to save these tenders for longer, freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet first. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, they stay crisp and can be reheated easily whenever you’re craving a quick, satisfying bite.
Reheating
To bring back that perfect crunch, reheat leftovers in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make the coating soggy, but the oven method keeps them crispy just like fresh out of the oven.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Greek yogurt works best because it’s thicker and creamier, which helps the coating stick and adds richness. Regular yogurt might make the coating too runny, but you can strain it to thicken if needed.
Is Parmesan cheese necessary?
While you could omit it, Parmesan cheese adds a wonderful savory depth and crunch that really sets this recipe apart. It’s definitely worth including for that signature crispy and flavorful crust.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and everything else stays the same. You’ll still get that delicious crunch without compromising taste.
What dipping sauces pair best with these chicken tenders?
They’re incredibly versatile. Popular choices include honey mustard, ranch dressing, barbecue sauce, or even a tangy sriracha mayo for a spicy kick.
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes, you can slice chicken breasts into strips if you don’t have tenders. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your pieces.
Final Thoughts
Unlock a new level of chicken tenders with this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Greek Yogurt and Parmesan Recipe that’s as simple as it is scrumptious. It’s a dish you can whip up any night of the week and feel proud serving to family or friends. Once you try it, I bet it’ll become one of your go-to recipes for good reason—crispiness, flavor, and that unbeatable combo of yogurt and Parmesan all baked to golden perfection.
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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with Greek Yogurt and Parmesan Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Entree
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Crispy Baked Greek Yogurt Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on the classic favorite, using a flavorful yogurt marinade and a crunchy Parmesan breadcrumb coating. Baked to perfection, these tenders are juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, making a perfect meal or appetizer for the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders
Yogurt Marinade
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Coating
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Prepare Yogurt Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, olive oil, garlic powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper thoroughly to create a flavorful marinade.
- Coat Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tender into the yogurt mixture, making sure it is evenly coated on all sides for maximum flavor and moisture retention during cooking.
- Mix Breadcrumb Coating: In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, which will add a deliciously crispy and savory crust to the chicken.
- Apply Breadcrumb Mixture: Roll the yogurt-coated chicken tenders in the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to make it adhere well for a crunchy texture.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out evenly to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake the tenders in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce such as honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy aioli.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can briefly broil the tenders for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking but watch closely to prevent burning.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture if desired.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Ensure chicken is fully cooked by checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
