Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Crispy baked chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried versions. They offer a satisfying crunch and flavorful coating, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a kid-friendly snack.

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: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Step 2: In a shallow 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: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Step 5: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Step 6: Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray to help them crisp up during baking.
7. Step 7: Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
8. Step 8: Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Try substituting the Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
• Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
• Use Greek yogurt instead of eggs for a lighter coating alternative.
• Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch for added flavor.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it can make the coating soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

It’s best to use fresh or fully thawed chicken tenders to ensure even cooking. Partially frozen chicken can result in uneven baking and safety concerns.

How can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?

Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free cereal in place of regular panko breadcrumbs. Make sure the other ingredients, like spices, are also gluten-free to avoid contamination.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 81 reviews

This recipe delivers perfectly crispy baked chicken tenders that are tender on the inside with a crunchy, flavorful coating. Made with simple ingredients like panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of spices, these chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to fried versions, baked to golden perfection with a light coating of olive oil spray.

• Author: Isabella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• 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)

Seasonings

• 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. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts or chicken tenders dry with paper towels and cut them into evenly sized strips to ensure uniform cooking.
2. Set up the breading station: In one bowl, beat the 2 large eggs. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing well to distribute the spices evenly.
3. Coat the chicken: Dip each chicken strip first into the beaten eggs, allowing excess egg to drip off, then dredge it into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to adhere the breading to the chicken.
4. Arrange on a baking sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased wire rack set over a baking sheet to promote crispiness. Make sure to space the tenders evenly, not touching each other.
5. Spray with olive oil: Lightly coat the tops of the chicken tenders with olive oil spray. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust during baking without deep frying.
6. Bake: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the chicken tenders for about 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through baking to ensure even browning and crispiness. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the coating is crisp and golden brown.
7. Serve: Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then serve the crispy baked chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces or sides.

Notes

• Using panko breadcrumbs results in a lighter, crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
• Adding Parmesan cheese enhances the flavor and adds a golden color to the crust.
• Cooking on a wire rack instead of directly on a baking sheet helps excess air circulate under the tenders for extra crispiness.
• Flip the tenders halfway through baking to promote even browning.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute regular panko with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.

Keywords: crispy baked chicken tenders, oven baked chicken, healthy chicken tenders, panko breaded chicken, easy chicken recipe