Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce and Fresh Salad Recipe

If you’re searching for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, delightfully crispy, and perfect for sharing, the Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce and Fresh Salad Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. This recipe elevates simple chicken tenders by coating them in a crunchy garlic-parmesan crust, paired with a creamy, herby dipping sauce and a fresh, zesty salad that balances every bite. It’s a fuss-free yet impressive meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, whether you’re feeding the family or entertaining friends.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine to create a dish full of vibrant colors and rich textures. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to add layers of taste—from the tangy brightness of lemon juice to the aromatic punch of fresh garlic and herbs, right down to the crispy panko coating that gives the chicken its irresistible crunch.

• Mayonnaise (½ cup / 125 g): Adds creaminess and helps the dipping sauce stay luscious and smooth.
• Greek yoghurt or sour cream (⅓ cup / 90 g): Brings a tangy depth to the sauce while keeping it light.
• Freshly minced garlic (½ tsp + 1 tsp): Key for that unmistakable garlicky punch in both the chicken and sauce.
• Fresh lemon juice (1 tbsp in sauce + 1 tbsp in salad): Adds a fresh, citrusy zing brightening all the flavors.
• Flat-leaf parsley (1 tbsp chopped in sauce + 1 tbsp chopped for butter): Offers a fresh, slightly peppery note that enhances the overall profile.
• Chives (1 tbsp finely chopped): Provides subtle oniony hints that uplift the dipping sauce uniquely.
• Sea salt flakes and freshly cracked black pepper: Essential seasoning to balance flavors and bring the dish to life.
• Panko breadcrumbs (1½ cups / 90 g): Creates the signature crispy crust on the chicken tenders.
• Garlic powder and sweet paprika (1 tsp each): Infuse warmth and complexity into the crumb coating.
• Plain (all-purpose) flour (½ cup / 75 g): Helps the coating stick perfectly to the chicken.
• Eggs (2, whisked): Acts as the glue that holds the crumb in place for baking or air frying.
• Chicken tenderloins (600 g / 1 lb 5 oz): The star protein—tender and quick-cooking.
• Olive oil spray: Ensures an even golden crust without excess fat during cooking.
• Unsalted butter (50 g / 1¾ oz, melted): Blended with garlic, salt, and parsley for a decadent finishing brush.
• Freshly grated parmesan (¼ cup / 25 g): Sprinkled on top to melt into the crust for extra savory goodness.
• Large cos (romaine) lettuce: Provides a fresh, crunchy bed for the meal’s sided salad.
• Extra-virgin olive oil (3 tbsp): Lightly dresses the salad for a silky finish.
• Air fryer chips, crispy oven fries or freezer fries: A delightful accompaniment to round out the meal.
• Lemon wedges: To squeeze over everything for added brightness just before eating.

How to Make Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce and Fresh Salad Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven or Air Fryer

Let’s start by getting your cooking device ready. Whether you’re using an oven or air fryer, it’s important to reach the proper temperature and give it a few minutes to stabilize for that ultimate crispiness. Oven lovers will want 220°C (425°F) with a full 10–15 minutes of preheat time, while air fryer users can simply set it to 200°C (400°F) and let it warm for 3 minutes.

Step 2: Whip Up the Dipping Sauce

This sauce is where creamy meets herby in the most delicious way. Combine mayonnaise, Greek yoghurt or sour cream, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, chives, salt, and pepper. Stir everything until perfectly smooth and set aside so those flavors mingle beautifully.

Step 3: Prepare the Breadcrumb Mixture

In a shallow bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, sweet paprika, sea salt flakes, and cracked black pepper. This seasoning blend will give the tenders their irresistible crispy exterior bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Tenders

First, dust each tender lovingly in flour for that initial base, then dip it in the whisked eggs for an even stickiness. Finally, coat thoroughly with the panko mixture, pressing gently so every bit clings perfectly. This three-step process guarantees a crunchy, golden coating after baking.

Step 5: Bake or Air Fry the Chicken

Arrange the coated tenders in your prepared oven or air fryer. In the oven, space them on a lightly oiled rack over a tray, spritz the tops with oil, and bake for 16–18 minutes flipping halfway to ensure an even golden crust. For air frying, place tenders single-layered in the basket, spray with oil, and cook for 10–12 minutes with a midpoint flip. Remember, cooking for too long can dry out these beauties.

Step 6: Make the Garlic Butter

While the chicken cooks, blend melted butter with minced garlic, salt flakes, and parsley in a small bowl. This buttery mix will take the tenders from great to absolutely mouthwatering.

Step 7: Finish the Chicken

As soon as the tenders come out golden and crisp, brush them with the warm garlic butter, then immediately sprinkle the freshly grated parmesan. The residual heat will melt the cheese just enough for it to cling beautifully to the crust, adding a savory, cheesy finish.

Step 8: Toss the Fresh Cos Salad

Right before serving, toss the crisp cos lettuce strips with extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. This simple dressing is fresh and light, offering a brilliant counterbalance to the rich chicken tenders.

Step 9: Plate and Serve

Bring everything together by serving your baked chicken tenders alongside the creamy dipping sauce, fresh salad, crispy fries, and a wedge of lemon for squeezing. This harmony of flavors and textures creates an unforgettable meal.

How to Serve Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce and Fresh Salad Recipe

Garnishes

For an extra touch, sprinkle a bit more freshly chopped parsley or parmesan over the plated tenders. A light dusting of cracked black pepper on the salad adds a subtle kick, and placing a lemon wedge on the side invites guests to brighten every bite with fresh citrus.

Side Dishes

While air fryer chips or crispy oven fries are fantastic companions, roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts also pair wonderfully, adding color and nutritional balance. For a lighter option, a simple quinoa salad or steamed green beans make excellent alternatives.

Creative Ways to Present

Present your creation on a large wooden board for a rustic, casual feel perfect for sharing. Alternatively, arrange each element on a divided plate for a family-style meal. For a party, serve the tenders with dipping sauce in individual ramekins and salad in mini cups for easy, elegant bites.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, store your leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the dipping sauce separate to preserve its fresh flavors and creamy texture.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked breaded chicken tenders on a tray lined with parchment paper until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. For cooked leftovers, freezing is possible but may affect the crispy texture slightly.

Reheating

To revive the crispiness, reheat tenders in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 8–10 minutes rather than using the microwave. This keeps their golden crunch intact without drying them out. The dipping sauce is best enjoyed cold, fresh from the fridge.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

Absolutely! Slice chicken breasts into tender-sized strips to ensure even cooking and maintain the tender texture you want.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the panko breadcrumbs and all-purpose flour for gluten-free alternatives, and double-check your seasoning blends to be gluten-free as well.

Can I prepare the dipping sauce in advance?

Definitely! The sauce tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, allowing the flavors to meld perfectly.

What’s the best way to get the tenders extra crispy?

Make sure your oven or air fryer is fully preheated before cooking and don’t overcrowd the tenders. Spraying the tops lightly with olive oil helps achieve that golden crunch.

Can I grill the chicken tenders instead of baking?

Grilling will work but results will be different—you won’t get that same crumb crust crispy texture but you will have deliciously smoky-flavored tenders.

Final Thoughts

The Baked Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders with Dipping Sauce and Fresh Salad Recipe is a true winner in the kitchen, delivering flavor, ease, and that perfect balance of textures every time. Once you try it, you’ll see how this meal quickly becomes a household favorite to make again and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the simple joy of cooking something both comforting and special!

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