Introduction:
Craving something crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and loaded with flavor? These Melt-In-Your-Mouth Chicken Tenders are a game-changer. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game nights, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this recipe uses a secret ingredient to ensure the chicken stays tender and full of flavor—mayonnaise! Don’t worry, it doesn’t taste like mayo—just pure, savory, golden deliciousness. With only a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a dish that tastes like it came from your favorite diner.
📝 Ingredients:
For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
- 1 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp paprika (smoked or sweet)
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
Optional for extra crunch:
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs or crushed Ritz crackers
Garnish:
- Fresh chopped parsley
- Lemon wedges (optional)
🔪 Instructions & Method:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
Step 2: Prepare the Mayo Coating
- In a medium bowl, mix together:
- Mayonnaise
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel.
- Add them to the bowl with the mayo mixture.
- Toss well until every piece is evenly coated.
Optional Crunchy Topping:
- If using breadcrumbs or crushed crackers:
- Mix them in a shallow dish.
- Press each coated tender lightly into the crumbs to add a crispy top layer.
Step 4: Bake
- Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until:
- The chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C)
- The tops are golden and bubbling.
Step 5: Broil (Optional)
- For extra crispiness, switch the oven to broil for the last 2–3 minutes. Keep an eye on them—they brown fast!
Step 6: Serve
- Let rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or a crisp garden salad.
- Great with dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or spicy mayo.
- Cut into pieces and stuff into wraps or sandwiches for leftovers!
🔁 Storage & Reheating:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for best texture.