Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Crispy baked chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken. Perfectly seasoned and coated with a crunchy breadcrumb mixture, they make a great snack, lunch, or dinner option that the whole family will enjoy.

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 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Step 2: In a shallow bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Step 3: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. Press lightly to adhere the coating well.
4. Step 4: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to help them crisp up.
5. Step 5: Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
6. Step 6: Remove from the oven and let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Use gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option.
• To make the tenders extra crispy, double-dip them by repeating the egg and breadcrumb coating before baking.
• Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce for a tasty dip.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving to keep the coating crunchy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. They are juicier but may require slightly longer baking time to ensure they are fully cooked.

How can I make these tenders without eggs?

You can substitute the eggs with buttermilk or a mixture of milk and mustard. Alternatively, use a beaten flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) as a vegan binder.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 143 reviews

This recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders delivers a healthier alternative to fried chicken strips while maintaining a wonderfully crunchy texture and flavorful bite. Using panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and aromatic spices, these chicken tenders are baked in the oven to golden perfection. Perfect for a family dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they are easy to prepare and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

• Author: Zane
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

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

Breading Mixture

• 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

Others

• 2 large eggs (beaten)
• Olive oil spray (for coating)

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a lightly greased wire rack to promote even cooking and crispiness.
2. Prepare Breading: In a shallow bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
3. Prepare Egg Wash: In another shallow bowl, beat the two large eggs until smooth and set aside.
4. Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken strip first into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture pressing gently to adhere a thick crust. Place the breaded strips onto the prepared baking sheet or rack.
5. Apply Olive Oil: Lightly spray the coated chicken tenders with olive oil spray to encourage browning and crispiness while baking.
6. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through to ensure even browning. Bake until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the exterior is golden and crisp.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving them hot with your favorite dipping sauce or side.

Notes

• For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular ones.
• Adding Parmesan cheese enhances flavor but can be omitted for a milder taste.
• Ensure chicken strips are uniform in size for even cooking.
• Using a wire rack on the baking sheet allows air circulation that promotes crispier chicken.
• Check the internal temperature of chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.

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