Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Crispy baked chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried favorites. They’re easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or snack. Enjoy them crispy on the outside and tender on the inside every time.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders (cut into strips)
• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray (for coating)

Instructions

1. Step 1: If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips about 1 inch wide. If using chicken tenders, you can skip this step.
2. Step 2: In one bowl, beat the eggs until smooth.
3. Step 3: In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
4. Step 4: Season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Step 5: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off.
6. Step 6: Coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
7. Step 7: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If available, place a wire rack on top for better air circulation and crispiness.
8. Step 8: Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, leaving space between each piece.
9. Step 9: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the chicken tenders with olive oil spray.
10. Step 10: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.
11. Step 11: Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.
12. Step 12: Remove from the oven and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

• Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
• Try substituting Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free flavor boost.
• Double coating the chicken tenders ensures an extra crispy crust.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch for variety.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes or until heated through and crisp. Avoid microwaving to maintain the crispy texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders, but be sure to fully thaw them before breading and baking for even cooking and best texture.

How do I make these tenders gluten-free?

Replace the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal. Make sure all seasonings and ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 108 reviews

This recipe for crispy baked chicken tenders offers a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders while still delivering a golden, crunchy texture and rich flavor. Using a combination of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and flavorful spices, these chicken tenders bake to perfection in the oven, making them an excellent choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a kid-friendly meal.

• Author: zara
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders (cut into strips)

Breading

• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Finishing

• Olive oil spray (for coating)

Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, cut them into approximately 1-inch wide strips. If using pre-cut chicken tenders, this step can be skipped.
2. Prepare the Breading Stations: Beat the eggs in one bowl until smooth. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance the flavor before breading.
4. Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs lightly onto the chicken to ensure they stick well. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating process once more.
5. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. If available, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to promote air circulation which helps the tenders become crispier.
6. Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, ensuring they are not touching for even baking.
7. Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the chicken tenders with olive oil spray to enhance crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. The tenders should be golden brown and crisp when finished.
8. Check Doneness and Serve: Verify the internal temperature of the chicken tenders reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat. Remove from the oven and serve immediately, enjoying the crispy texture paired with your favorite dipping sauce or side dish.

Notes

• For extra crispy tenders, use a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to allow air circulation around the chicken.
• Double coating the chicken strips with egg and breadcrumbs will produce a thicker, crunchier crust.
• If Parmesan cheese is not available or desired, you can omit it; the tenders will still be flavorful and crispy.
• Use olive oil spray lightly to avoid soggy coating while helping to achieve a golden finish.
• Ensure chicken is cooked to 165°F (74°C) internally for food safety.
• Leftover chicken tenders can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to retain crispiness.

Keywords: crispy baked chicken tenders, chicken tenders, baked chicken recipe, healthy chicken tenders, panko chicken, easy chicken dinner