Crispy Parmesan Chicken Alfredo (Print Version)

Crunchy chicken tenders coated in Parmesan, served with a rich Alfredo sauce for dipping or drizzling.

# Components:

→ Chicken Tenders

01 - 1.3 pounds chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
02 - 1 cup all-purpose flour
03 - 2 large eggs
04 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
05 - 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
06 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 - 1 teaspoon paprika
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
10 - 3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter, for drizzling or frying

→ Alfredo Sauce

11 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
12 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
13 - 1 cup heavy cream
14 - 2/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
15 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
16 - Pinch ground nutmeg, optional
17 - Salt, to taste
18 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish, optional

# Directions:

01 - Preheat the oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Arrange three shallow bowls: fill one with flour, beat the eggs in another, and combine panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third.
03 - Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in beaten egg and coat thoroughly with the panko-Parmesan mixture.
04 - Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and drizzle lightly with olive oil or melted butter for maximum crispiness.
05 - Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, turning halfway through, until tenders are golden and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F.
06 - While tenders bake, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
07 - Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and nutmeg if using. Cook, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–5 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt.
08 - Serve chicken tenders hot with Alfredo sauce for dipping or drizzling. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Uses simple pantry ingredients you probably have on hand
  • Quick enough for weeknights but worthy of special occasions
  • Makes both adults and kids happy
  • A great solution for picky eaters and elegant enough to serve for company
02 -
  • High in protein and satisfying for all ages
  • A proven crowd-pleaser for parties potlucks or game day
  • Freezes beautifully for meal prep or busy weeknights
03 -
  • Always use freshly grated Parmesan for both breading and sauce the flavor is worth the extra effort
  • For the crispiest finish flip the tenders halfway and drizzle a dash more oil
  • Do not rush the Alfredo sauce stirring slowly helps it emulsify and turn silky
  • Invest in an instant-read thermometer for perfectly juicy chicken you will never overbake again
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