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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

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★★★★★

4.9 from 127 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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 strips about 1-inch wide. If using chicken tenders, skip this step.
  2. 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.
  3. Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper for enhanced flavor.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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

Find it online: https://chefmilacook.com/crispy-baked-chicken-tenders-recipe/