Quick and simple to prepare, this Baked Chicken Tenderloin Parmesan is a family-friendly weeknight meal made with just a few straightforward ingredients. It’s one of my favorite ways to turn tenderloins into a comforting, satisfying dinner.
Parmesan Chicken Tenderloins in the Oven
This recipe combines two family favorites—chicken tenders and chicken parmesan—into an easy baked dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The tenderloins stay moist and tender, and the breadcrumb-and-cheese topping gives just enough texture and flavor without a lot of fuss.
I was curious the first time I swapped whole breasts for tenderloins in a chicken parmesan recipe, and I was pleasantly surprised by how well it worked. The tenderloins stay juicy and the whole family approves. Best of all, it’s ready in about 35 minutes when prepared start to finish.
Serve it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Leftovers reheat nicely, making this a convenient option when you want something tasty and low-effort.
Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Tenderloin Recipe
A few reasons this version of chicken parmesan stands out:
- Quick and easy. Prep takes only a few minutes and most of the cooking time is hands-off in the oven.
- Family-friendly. The mild flavors and familiar textures make it a hit with kids and adults alike.
- Minimal ingredients. You need only a handful of pantry staples—chicken, breadcrumbs, an egg, marinara, and a couple of cheeses.
What You’ll Need
This recipe uses a short list of ingredients you likely have or can buy easily:
- Chicken tenders: If you don’t have tenderloins, slice boneless chicken breasts into long strips.
- Egg: Beaten egg helps the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken.
- Seasoned breadcrumbs: They simplify seasoning; if using plain breadcrumbs, add dried herbs, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Marinara sauce: Use a jar you like or make a quick homemade marinara.
- Cheese: Shredded part-skim mozzarella and grated Parmesan work well together.
- Fresh basil: Chopped and sprinkled on at the end for a bright finish.
Are chicken tenders just cut-up chicken breasts?
Chicken tenderloins (often called chicken tenders) are a distinct piece of meat: a narrow muscle located beneath the breast. They’re naturally more tender than the main breast meat, which is why they’re a great option for quick-cooking recipes like this one.
How to Make Chicken Tenders Parmesan
This straightforward method yields crisp, flavorful chicken topped with warm marinara and melted cheese.
- Prep: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with foil and lightly spray with oil. Season the chicken with kosher salt. Put the beaten egg in a shallow bowl and the seasoned breadcrumbs in another shallow bowl.
- Coat: Dip each tenderloin in the egg, then press into the breadcrumbs, shaking off any excess. Arrange the breaded tenders on the prepared sheet pan and spray both sides generously with oil.
- Bake: Bake for 18 minutes, flipping halfway, until the chicken is cooked through. Don’t worry if the coating isn’t deeply crispy—most of it will be covered with sauce and cheese.
- Assemble: Transfer the cooked tenders to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon marinara sauce evenly over the chicken, then sprinkle with mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
- Melt: Return to the oven and bake 8–10 minutes more, until the sauce is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Finish with chopped fresh basil before serving.
What to Serve with Chicken Parmesan
Pair this dish with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables such as broccoli rabe, garlic butter mushrooms, or mixed roasted veggies. For a heartier meal, serve the tenderloins over your favorite pasta with extra marinara, or tuck them into a hoagie roll for a chicken parmesan sandwich.
Proper Storage
Store leftovers to enjoy later:
- Refrigerator: Keep in an airtight container for up to four days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven for best texture, or use the microwave for a quicker option.
More Chicken Tenderloin Recipes You’ll Love
- Chicken and Mushrooms in a Garlic White Wine Sauce
- Sesame-Encrusted Chicken Tenders
- Slow Cooker Salsa Verde Chicken
- Skillet Sazon Chicken Tenders
- Tortilla-Encrusted Chicken Tenders
Chicken Tenders Parmesan
A quick, family-friendly baked chicken parmesan made with tenderloins, seasoned breadcrumbs, marinara, and two cheeses. Ready in about 35 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 chicken tenders (about 1 1/4 lbs)
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs (about half the cup will be left over/tossed)
- Olive oil spray
- 1 1/2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a sheet pan with foil and spray lightly with oil.
- Season the chicken tenders with salt. Place the beaten egg in one shallow bowl and the breadcrumbs in another.
- Dip each tender in the egg, then press into the breadcrumbs. Shake off excess and place on the prepared sheet pan. (An image showing how to bread the chicken is included below.)
- Spray both sides of the breaded chicken generously with olive oil spray.
- Bake for 18 minutes, flipping once halfway, until cooked through.
- Transfer the tenders to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spoon marinara over the chicken, then sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake 8–10 minutes more, until the sauce is hot and the cheese is melted. Top with chopped basil and serve.
Nutrition (per serving)
Serving: 3 tenderloins — Calories: 376 kcal, Carbohydrates: 19 g, Protein: 45 g, Fat: 12.5 g, Saturated Fat: 4.5 g, Cholesterol: 169.5 mg, Sodium: 1188 mg, Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 4.5 g.