Short Description
These Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions while still delivering a satisfying crunch. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, these tenders make a great meal for both kids and adults. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious and easy dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier Alternative – Enjoy crispy chicken tenders without the excess oil from frying.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal prep work make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
- Crispy Texture – A combination of breadcrumbs and seasonings ensures a crunchy, flavorful coating.
- Kid-Friendly – A meal the whole family will love, especially when served with dipping sauces.
- Customizable – Easily switch up the seasoning or coating to fit your preferences.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- Eggs
- All-purpose flour
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Prepare the dredging station – In three separate bowls, place flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in the third.
- Coat the chicken – Dredge each chicken strip in flour, then dip into the eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
- Arrange on the baking sheet – Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the egg mixture for extra heat.
- Gluten-Free – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
- Air Fryer Option – Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Different Coatings – Try crushed cornflakes or pretzels for a unique crunch.
- Herb-Infused – Add dried oregano, basil, or thyme for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze cooked tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until crispy. For a quick option, use an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
FAQs
How do I make my baked chicken tenders extra crispy?
For maximum crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs, lightly spray with oil before baking, and bake on a wire rack to allow air circulation.
Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
Classic choices include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, and buffalo sauce.
Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can coat the chicken and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Alternatively, freeze breaded but uncooked tenders and bake when needed.
Do I need to flip the chicken tenders while baking?
Yes, flipping them halfway through ensures even browning and crispiness.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips to achieve the same results.
What is the best way to reheat these tenders without losing crispiness?
Reheat in the oven or air fryer instead of the microwave to keep them crispy.
How can I make these tenders dairy-free?
Omit the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free milk substitute if needed in the egg mixture.
Can I cook these tenders in an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I know when the chicken tenders are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Conclusion
Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious, healthier alternative to fried chicken, offering a crunchy texture and flavorful seasoning. Perfect for a family meal or appetizer, they pair well with various dips and can be customized to your taste. With easy preparation and baking, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.
Print
Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are golden, crunchy, and packed with flavor—without the deep frying! Coated in a seasoned breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, these baked tenders are perfect for a healthy, family-friendly meal or snack. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces for a delicious treat!
Ingredients
- For the Chicken Tenders:
- 1 lb chicken tenders (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips)
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 2 eggs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Honey mustard
- Ranch dressing
- BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a greased wire rack for extra crispiness.
- Prepare the Breading Stations:
- In one shallow bowl, mix flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
- In another bowl, whisk together eggs and milk.
- In a third bowl, combine Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
- Coat the Chicken Tenders:
- Dredge each chicken tender in the flour mixture, shaking off excess.
- Dip into the egg mixture, then coat evenly with the Panko-Parmesan mixture.
- Press gently to ensure the coating sticks well.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders:
- Arrange coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
- Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness.
- Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, broil for the last 2 minutes.
- Use whole wheat Panko for a healthier option.
- Can be made gluten-free with GF flour and breadcrumbs.
- Details
Nutrition
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
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