Chicken Tenders on Texas Toast with Sauce and Shredded Mozzarella

Introduction:

Get ready to indulge in a truly satisfying meal that hits all the right notes – crispy, juicy chicken tenders resting on buttery Texas toast, smothered in marinara sauce, and topped with melted mozzarella cheese. This dish brings together the crunch of golden-breaded chicken, the soft warmth of Texas toast, and the ooey-gooey goodness of mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a family dinner, weekend treat, or when you’re just craving a hearty, comforting dish, these Chicken Tenders on Texas Toast are going to be a hit! Plus, the flavors of the Italian-style breadcrumbs and Parmesan give each bite an extra layer of deliciousness. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed creation, step by step.

Ingredients:

1 lb. chicken tenders: These are tender and cook quickly, providing the perfect protein base for this dish.
8 slices of Texas toast: Thick and fluffy, this toast will hold up under the sauce and chicken without getting soggy.
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: For that perfect melted, stretchy cheese topping.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Simple seasonings to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
1/2 cup all-purpose flour: The first step in breading the chicken, giving the tenders a light coating for the egg to stick to.
2 eggs: Used to help the breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken tenders.
1/2 cup milk: Whisked with the eggs to thin the mixture slightly and create a smooth coating.
1 cup Italian-style breadcrumbs: Seasoned breadcrumbs that add extra flavor and crunch.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Mixed into the breadcrumbs to add a savory, cheesy kick.
1 cup marinara sauce: The rich, tangy sauce that complements the crispy chicken and creamy cheese.
Olive oil (for brushing the toast): Optional, but brushing a little oil on the Texas toast before toasting makes it even more golden and flavorful.

Instructions:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). You’ll use this temperature to cook both the chicken tenders and toast up the cheesy topping later.

Step 2: Season and Prep the Chicken Tenders

Begin by seasoning your chicken tenders generously with salt and pepper. This will ensure the tenders are flavorful right from the start.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

Prepare a classic three-part breading station:
Bowl 1: Add 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour.
Bowl 2: In a second bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs and 1/2 cup of milk until smooth.
Bowl 3: In a third bowl, combine 1 cup of Italian-style breadcrumbs and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 4: Bread the Chicken Tenders

One at a time, dredge the seasoned chicken tenders in the flour, coating both sides and shaking off any excess.
Next, dip the chicken tenders into the egg mixture, ensuring they’re fully coated.
Finally, roll the chicken tenders in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to help the breadcrumbs adhere well.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Tenders

Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
Bake the tenders for 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 6: Toast the Texas Toast

While the chicken tenders are baking, toast the Texas toast slices. You can do this in a toaster, or for extra flavor, place them on a baking sheet, brush with a bit of olive oil, and toast them in the oven until golden brown, about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Add Sauce and Cheese to the Chicken

Once the chicken tenders are done baking, remove them from the oven and transfer them to a baking dish or sheet.
Spoon about 2 tablespoons of marinara sauce over each chicken tender.
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded mozzarella cheese (about 1/4 cup per tender) on top of the sauce.

Step 8: Melt the Cheese

Return the chicken tenders to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.

Step 9: Assemble and Serve

Place a slice of Texas toast on each serving plate.
Top each piece of toast with one or two of the cheesy chicken tenders.
Drizzle with extra marinara sauce if desired for that rich, saucy finish.

Optional Garnish:

Freshly chopped basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness

Benefits of Chicken Tenders on Texas Toast with Sauce and Shredded Mozzarella

High Protein Content:

Chicken tenders are an excellent source of lean protein, which is crucial for muscle repair and growth. With about 45g of protein per serving, this meal will help keep you full and energized throughout the day.

Balanced Macronutrients:

This meal provides a balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. The Texas toast delivers carbohydrates for energy, while the cheese and chicken supply healthy fats and proteins, creating a well-rounded, satiating meal.

Calcium-Rich:

The shredded mozzarella cheese provides a healthy dose of calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth. Adequate calcium intake is essential for bone health, especially for those who are active or aging.

Supports Healthy Digestion:

The fiber in the Texas toast and marinara sauce can support healthy digestion. Fiber helps regulate your digestive system, keeping things moving smoothly and aiding in nutrient absorption.

Comfort Food with a Twist:

While this dish falls into the comfort food category, baking the chicken tenders instead of frying them reduces the amount of oil used, making it a lighter option than traditional fried chicken dishes.

Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals:

Chicken is a good source of essential vitamins like B6 and niacin, which are important for brain health and maintaining healthy skin. The marinara sauce, made from tomatoes, adds vitamin C and antioxidants, boosting your immune system.

Customizable:

This recipe can be easily customized to suit dietary needs. For example, you can use whole-grain or gluten-free bread, low-fat cheese, or add extra vegetables like spinach or roasted bell peppers for an added nutritional punch.

Easy to Prepare:

This meal can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights. Despite its simplicity, it offers restaurant-quality flavors right at home.

Kid-Friendly:

Chicken tenders and cheesy toast are universally loved by kids, making this a family-friendly dish. It’s a great way to introduce healthier homemade options that still feel indulgent.

Boosts Mood:
- Comfort foods, especially those with cheese and warm marinara sauce, can increase serotonin levels in the brain, improving mood and providing a sense of happiness and satisfaction.

Overall, this dish is not just tasty but packs a lot of nutritional benefits that make it a great option for both indulgence and nourishment.

Method:

Prepare the Chicken Tenders: Start by seasoning the chicken tenders. This ensures the flavor permeates all the way through. Next, you’ll bread the chicken tenders using a traditional breading method (flour-egg-breadcrumb), which gives them a crisp and golden crust.
Bake the Chicken: Baking the tenders instead of frying makes this dish lighter while still retaining that perfect crispy texture. The tenders cook through in the oven without needing excess oil.
Toast the Bread: Texas toast is the ideal base for this dish. Its thickness can hold up to the toppings without becoming soggy, and toasting it adds a delightful crunch.
Layer with Sauce and Cheese: Adding marinara sauce and mozzarella on top of the tenders gives the dish a hearty, Italian-inspired twist. As the cheese melts and becomes gooey, it perfectly complements the crispiness of the chicken and the bread.
Serve: Once everything is baked and assembled, you’re left with a comforting, delicious meal. The combination of textures (crisp chicken, soft toast, melted cheese) and flavors (savory, tangy, cheesy) is irresistible.

Nutrition (per serving)

Nutrition Facts (per serving, based on 4 servings):

Calories: 640 kcal
Protein: 45g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Sugars: 7g
Fiber: 4g
Sodium: 1100mg
Cholesterol: 165mg
Calcium: 350mg
Iron: 4mg
Vitamin C: 8mg
Vitamin A: 500 IU

Breakdown:

Protein: Chicken tenders and mozzarella provide a significant amount of protein, helping with muscle repair and keeping you full.
Carbohydrates: The Texas toast contributes most of the carbs, giving you energy for daily activities.
Fats: The fat comes primarily from the mozzarella cheese and breading, providing flavor and texture.
Calcium: Mozzarella cheese is rich in calcium, supporting bone health.
Sodium: Between the cheese, bread, and marinara sauce, sodium is higher, so you can adjust this by choosing low-sodium options.

This meal is a hearty, balanced option that can be made even lighter by opting for whole grain toast, low-fat cheese, or baking with minimal oil.

Calories: 640 kcal
Protein: 45g
Fat: 28g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 7g
Sodium: 1100 mg
Calcium: 350 mg
Iron: 4 mg

This dish is not only delicious but also fairly balanced with protein from the chicken and cheese, carbohydrates from the toast, and a healthy dose of calcium. While it’s a comforting meal, you can adjust ingredients (such as using whole-wheat Texas toast or low-fat cheese) to suit your dietary preferences.

Enjoy this cheesy, crispy, and saucy delight