Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and ready in a flash? Then look no further! This Italian Chicken Tenders recipe is your answer. These crispy, flavorful tenders are packed with Italian herbs and spices, making them a perfect weeknight meal for the whole family. Get ready to elevate your dinner game with this simple yet incredibly satisfying dish – a true testament to the magic of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your chicken tenders by patting them dry with paper towels. This ensures a nice, crispy coating.
Bread the Chicken:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- In another shallow dish, beat the egg.
- In a third shallow dish, combine the panko bread crumbs and Parmesan cheese.
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, ensuring it's fully coated.
- Dip the floured tender into the beaten egg, letting any excess drip off.
- Finally, coat the chicken in the panko mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Carefully place the breaded chicken tenders in the hot oil, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F).
Serve & Enjoy:
- Remove the cooked chicken tenders from the skillet and place them on a wire rack to drain any excess oil.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, homemade Italian Chicken Tenders! They're perfect on their own, with a side of pasta, or as part of a larger Italian-themed meal.
Tips & Variations:
- For extra crispy chicken, you can double bread the tenders, repeating steps 5-7.
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or experiment with different herbs like oregano or basil.
- Looking for a healthier option? Bake the chicken tenders in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray instead of oil.
- These Italian Chicken Tenders are great for meal prepping! Make a big batch and enjoy them throughout the week for quick and easy lunches or dinners.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the chicken tenders and the amount of oil used. However, a reasonable estimate per tender is:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 20-25g
- Fat: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe provides a fantastic quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy this delicious and healthy meal – a true taste of Italy in your own kitchen! These healthy meals are easily adaptable to suit your preferences and dietary needs, making them a versatile addition to your repertoire of best recipes. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to create a truly memorable meal!