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+ servings
chicken tenders, and sweet potato fries on a picnic table.

Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries

Ian McHugh
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries, a recipe designed to captivate the taste buds of children. These crispy and cheesy chicken tenders, paired with golden-brown sweet potato fries, create a meal that is both satisfying and kid-friendly. The chicken tenders are coated in a flavorful mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices, while the sweet potato fries are seasoned with a touch of garlic and paprika. Baked to perfection, this dish offers a healthier twist on a classic favorite, eliminating the need for deep-frying. With its irresistible combination of textures and flavors, this recipe is sure to become a beloved go-to for children and parents alike. Prepare this delightful meal, and watch as your little ones devour every delicious bite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Course Kid Friendly, Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 491 kcal

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment Paper
  • 2 Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Tongs or Fork
  • Knife and Cutting Board
  • Basting Brush (optional)

Ingredients
 
 

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
  • 1 Cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 Cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 large eggs, beaten

For the Chicken Tenders:

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into thin strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
  • In a shallow bowl or dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  • In another bowl, beat the eggs.
  • Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated chicken tender on the prepared baking sheet. Repeat with the remaining chicken tenders.
  • In a separate mixing bowl, toss the sweet potato strips with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until well coated.
  • Arrange the sweet potato strips in a single layer on the same baking sheet, next to the chicken tenders.
  • Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sweet potato fries are crispy and golden brown.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve the cheesy baked chicken tenders with the sweet potato fries as a delicious and kid-friendly meal.

Notes

Recipe Notes for Cheesy Baked Chicken Tenders with Sweet Potato Fries:
1. Chicken Variations: If you prefer, you can use chicken breast cut into strips instead of chicken tenders. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the chicken is cooked through.
2. Breadcrumb Mixture: Feel free to add additional seasonings or herbs to the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste. You can experiment with dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil for added flavor.
3. Panko Substitution: If you don't have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as an alternative. However, keep in mind that the texture and crispiness may vary.
4. Sweet Potato Texture: To achieve a crispier texture for the sweet potato fries, you can soak them in cold water for 30 minutes before tossing them with the seasoning and baking.
5. Dipping Sauces: Serve the chicken tenders and sweet potato fries with your children's favorite dipping sauces such as ketchup, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for added fun and flavor.
6. Cooking Time: The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken tenders and the desired level of crispiness for the sweet potato fries. Keep an eye on them towards the end of the cooking time to ensure they don't overcook.
7. Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings according to your children's preferences. You can reduce or omit the spices if your little ones prefer a milder flavor.
8. Safety Precautions: When handling raw chicken, ensure proper food safety practices, such as using separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked ingredients, and washing hands thoroughly before and after handling poultry.
Remember to have fun while preparing this recipe with your children, involving them in the process and allowing them to participate in coating the chicken tenders or tossing the sweet potato fries. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the joy of sharing a homemade meal together.

Nutrition

Calories: 491kcalCarbohydrates: 38gProtein: 38gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0.02gCholesterol: 176mgSodium: 1210mgPotassium: 940mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 16771IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 304mgIron: 3mg
Keyword Baked, Cheesy, Chicken Tenders, Kid-Friendly, Sweet Potato Fries
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