Parmesan-herb chicken tenders with spicy butter
Parmesan-herb chicken tenders are coated in a flavorful mixture of parmesan and herbs, baked until crispy, and drizzled with a spicy butter sauce for an exciting finish. This dish balances savoury and spicy flavours, making it a great choice for dinner or appetizers.
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 10 min
Ingredients:
1 cup grated parmesan cheese2 tbsp fresh parsley
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tbsp paprika
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp red pepper (spice)
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp white pepper
31.99 oz chicken breasts
1/2 cup butter
Parmesan-herb chicken tenders with spicy butter are a delightful twist on the classic chicken tender recipe. This dish marries the savory flavors of parmesan and herbs with a spicy kick from red pepper, creating a balanced yet exciting flavor profile. It's perfect for a family dinner or as a standout appetizer at your next gathering.
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Slice the chicken breasts into tenders or bite-sized strips, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, dried oregano, paprika, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and white pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
Take each chicken tender and press it into the Parmesan-herb mixture, ensuring each piece is well-coated on all sides. Place the coated chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
While the chicken is baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Once melted, stir in the remaining paprika and red pepper flakes. Allow the butter to infuse with the spices for a few minutes, then remove from heat.
Once the chicken tenders are done, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter. Drizzle the spicy butter over the hot chicken tenders, allowing it to seep into the crispy coating.
For a finishing touch, sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley over the top for added color and freshness.
Serve immediately. These Parmesan-herb chicken tenders pair wonderfully with a green salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Once your Parmesan-herb chicken tenders with spicy butter are deliciously golden and crispy, they are ready to serve. Pair them with a cool dipping sauce or a fresh side salad to balance the heat, and enjoy the satisfying crunch and burst of flavors. Your guests are sure to be impressed by this flavorful and easy-to-make dish.
Parmesan-herb chicken tenders with spicy butter FAQ:
Bake the chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes. They should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
The chicken tenders are done when they are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature for safety.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Yes, you can substitute grated parmesan with other hard cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may vary slightly.
Use a standard baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. A sheet that is approximately 18x13 inches works well to ensure enough space for even cooking.
Tips:
- Ensure that the chicken breasts are evenly sized.: Cutting the chicken into even tenders ensures they cook uniformly, preventing any pieces from being under or overcooked.
- Grate your own parmesan cheese.: Freshly grated parmesan has better texture and flavor compared to pre-grated varieties, elevating the overall taste of the dish.
- Don't skip the spicy butter.: The spicy butter not only adds a rich, dynamic flavor but also keeps the chicken tenders moist and succulent.
- Use a meat thermometer.: To ensure the chicken is safely cooked, aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Preheat the oven or frying pan.: Starting with a hot oven or pan ensures a crisp outer layer quickly, which locks in the juices and keeps the chicken tender.
Nutrition per serving
8 ServingsCalories 300kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 2.90g
Fiber 0.64g
Sugar 0.28g
Fat 18g
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