Crunchy Parmesan Chicken Tenders

We choose to serve this with rice simply because that's the way we are!

You cannot omit this sauce for this dish.  Without it, you'll be lost!

This dish claimed a special spot in our regular monthly menu.  Three reasons: it's super easy, super healthy and last but not least, super yummy.  But I have to warn that if you omit making the sauce you will be disappointed.  Italian style, these chicken tenders are perfectly paired with balsamic vinegar sauce.  It reminds me of marriage 'til death do us part', it won't be complete without the sauce...it definitely has a very important role when you indulge them. With the mild, subtle flavor of the chicken dipped into the sweet, tangy taste of the balsamic sauce makes this dish a happy marriage!  In our household, we enjoy having them with plain steamed rice, salad or veggies on the side.  Great for appetizer or serve as an entree, it's your choice!

Ingredients:

4 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 cup buttermilk
1 1/2 pounds chicken tenders (about 18)
3 large garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
Freshly ground black pepper
1 1/4 cups freshly grated parmesan
3/4 cup Italian-style seasoned bread crumbs

Preheat the oven to 500 degrees F.

Brush 1 tablespoon of oil over each of 2 heavy large lined baking sheets. Place the buttermilk in a large bowl. Add the chicken tenders and stir to coat. Let stand at least 15 minutes and up to 30 minutes.
Meanwhile, mash the garlic with the salt in a medium bowl. Whisk in the vinegar and then the remaining 1/2 cup of oil. Season the vinaigrette, to taste, with pepper. Transfer the vinaigrette to a small serving bowl.
Stir the Parmesan and bread crumbs in a pie dish. Remove the chicken tenders from the buttermilk and dredge them in the bread crumb mixture to coat completely, pressing to adhere. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheets, spacing evenly. Drizzle the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil over the chicken tenders and bake until they are cooked through and golden brown, about 12 minutes.
Transfer the chicken tenders to a platter and serve the vinaigrette alongside for dipping.
 
Yield: 6 servings

Recipe courtesy:  Giada de Laurentiis, Foodnetwork.com