Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Craving crispy chicken tenders without the mess and calories of frying?

Baked Chicken Tenders are your solution!

Not only are they healthier, but they’re also just as delicious, golden on the outside, and tender on the inside.

In fact, you’ll be surprised at how easy it is to make these homemade chicken tenders right in your oven.

Let’s dive into this simple, foolproof recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we start, gather these simple ingredients to make your crispy chicken tenders:

• Chicken Breasts or Tenders: Fresh or thawed chicken breasts, cut into tender-sized pieces. You can also use pre-cut chicken tenders for convenience.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide the best texture, but you can also use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for extra crunch.
• Eggs: Beaten eggs help bind the breadcrumbs to the chicken.
• Seasonings: Classic seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika will bring out the flavors. Feel free to add your favorite spices!
• Optional Additions: For a richer flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture. You can also add a dash of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick!

These pantry staples are all you need for crispy, flavorful chicken tenders.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Chicken:

If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips (about 1-inch wide). If using chicken tenders, you can 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:

Season the chicken tenders with a pinch of salt and pepper.

Bread the Chicken:

Dip each chicken strip first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off.

Then, coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick.

For an extra crunchy coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process (double coating).

Prepare the Baking Sheet:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet. This will allow air circulation and help the tenders crisp up.

Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet:

Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet (or wire rack), leaving space between each tender for even cooking.

Bake the Chicken Tenders:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

Spray the chicken tenders lightly with olive oil spray for an extra crispy texture.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. The tenders should be golden brown and crisp when done.

Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for full doneness.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once the chicken tenders are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch!

Tips for the Crispiest Chicken Tenders

Want your homemade oven-baked chicken tenders to be extra crispy? Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect crispiness:

• Use a Wire Rack: Placing the chicken on a wire rack allows hot air to circulate around the tenders, making them crispier than if they were sitting directly on the baking sheet.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give each tender enough space to allow the heat to reach every side, which helps the breading crisp up evenly.
• Double Coat for Extra Crunch: For a crunchier coating, double-dip the chicken tenders in the egg and breadcrumb mixture.

These small changes can make a huge difference in the texture of your chicken tenders.

What to Serve with Baked Chicken Tenders

Homemade chicken tenders are delicious on their own, but they also pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and sauces. Here are some great ideas:

• Healthy Side Dishes: Serve your chicken tenders with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or baked sweet potato fries for a balanced meal. You can find our side dishes here.
• Dipping Sauces: Classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or ketchup complement the tenders perfectly.
• Meal Prep: Make a batch of chicken tenders to prep for the week ahead. Pair them with veggies or rice for a convenient and tasty lunch or dinner.

These sides will make your meal complete, and your family will love the variety!

FAQ’s

Can I freeze these chicken tenders?

Yes! You can freeze the uncooked, breaded tenders. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to cook, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

How do I make the chicken tenders extra crispy?

For extra crispiness, use a wire rack to bake the chicken tenders. This allows hot air to circulate around the tenders, making them crispy on all sides. You can also double coat the chicken for a thicker breading.

Can I bake these ahead of time?

You can bake the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.

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