Print

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 16 reviews

Discover how to make crispy, golden baked chicken tenders that are a healthier alternative to fried versions. These chicken tenders are coated in a flavorful blend of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices, then baked to perfection for a crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

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

Breading Mixture

  • 2 large eggs (beaten)
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
  • 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 to ensure even cooking. If you’re using chicken tenders, you can skip this step.
  2. Prepare the Breading Stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly until smooth. In a separate bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, mixing them evenly.
  3. Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance their flavor before breading.
  4. Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat the strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating adheres well. For extra crunchiness, repeat the egg dip and breadcrumb coating for a double layer.
  5. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. If available, place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation for crispier tenders.
  6. Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack, spacing them evenly so they cook uniformly.
  7. Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the chicken tenders with olive oil spray for an extra crispy exterior. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: After baking, allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.

Notes

  • Using panko breadcrumbs will yield a lighter, crispier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs.
  • Double coating the chicken tenders increases the crunch factor but also adds extra calories.
  • For a gluten-free version, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
  • Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet; spacing helps the tenders crisp up evenly.
  • If you don’t have olive oil spray, brushing the tenders lightly with olive oil works well too.

Nutrition

Keywords: baked chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, healthy chicken tenders, oven-baked chicken, panko chicken strips

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