Name: Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound chicken tenders; 1 cup pecans, finely chopped; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 large eggs; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter for frying

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

If there’s one recipe I always turn to when I need something both special and simple for dinner, it’s these Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders. Imagine juicy strips of chicken wrapped in a crisp, flavor-packed crust of toasted pecans, Parmesan, and panko, kissed with a hint of smoky paprika and just the right balance of seasoning. They’re a family favorite in my house, disappearing faster than you can say “pass the honey mustard,” and they will instantly elevate any table—whether you’re serving them as a main course, an irresistible party snack, or packing them up for an upbeat picnic lunch. Let’s get started on a recipe you’ll soon crave as much as I do!

Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders is how a handful of straightforward ingredients can magically transform into a masterpiece of taste and crunch. Each element is there for a purpose: savory flavors, golden color, and satisfying texture you’ll want to eat with your fingers.

Chicken tenders (1 pound): The perfect cut for quick, juicy results and easy breading.
Pecans (1 cup, finely chopped): These nuts offer buttery richness and a satisfying crunch—try toasting them before chopping for extra flavor.
Panko breadcrumbs (1/2 cup): Lighter and crunchier than standard breadcrumbs, panko gives the coating that signature crispy bite.
Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds a salty, savory lift and helps bind the crust together.
Eggs (2 large): Beaten eggs help everything stick to the chicken beautifully.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Just enough to give a mellow, aromatic boost to the flavor.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Lends a subtle warmth and hint of smokiness to the crust.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing out every flavor note.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a mild kick to the tenders’ profile.
Olive oil or melted butter (2 tablespoons): Use for drizzling or frying to help the coating achieve a gorgeous, golden finish.

How to Make Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This ensures the tenders don’t stick and makes cleanup a breeze. While the oven warms up, gather your ingredients and set up a little assembly line for the breading process.

Step 2: Mix the Crunchy Coating

In a shallow bowl, combine the chopped pecans, panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together with a fork so every bite has a little of each component. This nutty, cheesy mixture is what transforms ordinary chicken into magical Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders.

Step 3: Dip and Dredge

In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs well. Take each chicken tender and dip it into the eggs, making sure it’s completely coated. Then, lay it in the pecan mixture and press down firmly—get those bits sticking to every side! Don’t be shy—press the coating in for maximum crunch.

Step 4: Arrange and Drizzle

As you crust each chicken tender, place it onto your prepared baking sheet. Once they’re all lined up, drizzle them gently with olive oil or melted butter. This step is key for that golden, crispy result, whether you bake or opt for a quick sauté in a skillet for extra crunch.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake the tenders for 15–20 minutes, flipping them over halfway through to ensure all-over crispy goodness. You’ll know they’re done when the outsides are deep golden and the chicken is cooked through (no pink left in the middle).

Step 6: Serve and Savor

Serve your Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders hot out of the oven with your favorite dipping sauce. These are irresistible when fresh, with a shatteringly crisp coating and juicy chicken inside. Enjoy every crunchy, nutty, cheesy bite!

How to Serve Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Brighten up the plate by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon, or even a light dusting of extra Parmesan over the top. These little touches not only look lovely but add a fresh zip that complements the richness of the pecan crust.

Side Dishes

Pair your Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders with anything from vibrant roasted veggies to a crisp green salad, or even some creamy mashed potatoes. For a cozy dinner, serve with garlic bread or sweet potato fries. If you’re aiming for finger food fare, keep it simple with carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or crunchy coleslaw.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange these tenders in a basket lined with parchment for a rustic, family-style presentation, or slice them atop a salad for extra protein and crunch. Try tucking tenders into warm tortillas with slaw for easy wraps, or serve mini-tenders on skewers for a playful party appetizer. However you present them, Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders never fail to impress!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself lucky enough to have Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders left over, transfer them to an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay delicious for up to three days, though the coating is best enjoyed as fresh and crisp as possible.

Freezing

Want to make a big batch ahead of time? Once cooked and completely cooled, you can freeze the tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well in the freezer for up to two months, perfect for quick meals or snacks when cravings hit.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat refrigerated or frozen Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until they’re warmed through and the crust crisps up again, about 10–15 minutes. While microwaving is fast, it just can’t replicate that irresistible crunch.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Simply slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips about the size of chicken tenders, and follow the recipe as written. The result will be every bit as delicious and crunchy.

What’s the best dipping sauce for these tenders?

They’re truly versatile—honey mustard is a classic, but ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a quick homemade aioli are all fantastic with Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders. Their savory, nutty flavor pairs with almost any dip you love.

Can these be made gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the panko breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free alternative. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-friendly, making these tenders a fantastic option for gluten-free meals.

How can I make the coating even crunchier?

Try toasting the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before chopping them, and use very fresh panko breadcrumbs. For an extra crispy finish, you can pan-fry the coated tenders in a bit of olive oil on the stovetop before finishing in the oven.

Can I prepare these in advance?

You can bread the chicken tenders a few hours ahead and refrigerate them, then bake or fry just before serving. This is a great way to save time when entertaining or prepping for dinner on a busy night!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about gathering around a platter of homemade Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders, feeling their warm crunch and savoring every burst of flavor. I hope you love this recipe as much as my family does—don’t be surprised if it becomes one of your own kitchen go-tos!

Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.6 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Pecan-Crusted Chicken Tenders are a delightful combination of crunchy pecans, savory Parmesan, and tender chicken. Perfect for a family-friendly meal or a party snack, these flavorful tenders are easy to make and sure to please.

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients:

1 pound chicken tenders
1 cup pecans, finely chopped
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 large eggs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter for frying

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs.
In another bowl, combine chopped pecans, panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dip each chicken tender into the egg, then press into the pecan mixture, coating thoroughly.
Place coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil or melted butter over the tenders.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.