Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Introduction
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders offer a flavorful and healthier alternative to fried versions without sacrificing crunch or taste. This easy recipe uses a seasoned breadcrumb coating and bakes to golden perfection, making it perfect for a family dinner or casual 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
- Step 1: If using chicken breasts, cut them into 1-inch wide strips. Skip this step if using pre-cut chicken tenders.
- Step 2: Beat the eggs in one bowl until smooth. In another bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Step 3: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Step 4: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help crumbs adhere. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating once more.
- Step 5: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. If available, place a wire rack on the sheet for better air circulation and crispiness.
- Step 6: Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the baking sheet or wire rack, spacing them evenly.
- Step 7: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray to enhance crispness.
- Step 8: Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through. They are done when golden brown, crisp, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Step 9: Let the chicken tenders rest a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch.
Tips & Variations
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
- Using a wire rack helps keep the tenders crispy all around by allowing air to circulate during baking.
- Double coating the chicken with egg and breadcrumbs creates an extra crunchy exterior.
Storage
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven for 8-10 minutes or until heated through and crisp. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?
Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks and the tenders cook evenly.
What dipping sauces pair well with crispy baked chicken tenders?
Classic options like honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or even spicy sriracha mayo complement the crispy chicken tenders nicely.
PrintCrispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders recipe offers a healthier twist on the classic fried chicken tenders by baking them to golden perfection. Coated with a flavorful mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices, these tenders are delightfully crunchy on the outside and tender inside, making them perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a party appetizer.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
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
- Prep the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips about 1-inch wide. If using chicken tenders, skip this step.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so crumbs adhere well. For extra crunch, repeat dipping in egg and breadcrumbs for a double coating.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If available, place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation which helps crisping.
- Arrange Chicken on the Baking Sheet: Place breaded chicken tenders spaced apart on the baking sheet or wire rack to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray the tenders lightly with olive oil spray to help achieve a crispy texture. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until tenders turn golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the tenders from the oven, let them rest a few minutes, then serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch.
Notes
- Use wire rack on the baking sheet for maximum crispiness by allowing air circulation around the tenders.
- Double coating the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs gives an extra crunchy texture.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a delicious savory note.
Keywords: crispy baked chicken tenders, healthy chicken tenders, baked chicken recipes, crunchy chicken tenders, oven-baked chicken, easy chicken tenders
