Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
If you’re searching for a finger-licking favorite that combines golden crunch with juicy tenderness, then you’ve got to try this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s the perfect balance of flavorful spices and that unbeatable crispy texture you crave, all baked to perfection without any deep-frying hassle. Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a game day treat, this recipe will quickly become your go-to because it’s delicious, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to nail every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient here plays a starring role in making this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe unforgettable. From the crispy panko crumbs to the savory Parmesan cheese and aromatic spices, these basics come together to create a depth of flavor and texture that’s truly mouthwatering.
- 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breast, cut into strips: Choose tender cuts for juicy bites that cook evenly and quickly.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: These extra-light crumbs deliver that signature crunchy crust every chicken lover desires.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty flavor and helps the coating brown beautifully.
- 1 tsp smoked paprika: Infuses a smoky depth and vibrant color to the breading.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory notes and complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds subtle sweetness and complexity to the flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that brighten and balance every bite.
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour: Helps the coating stick and creates a light base layer on each tender.
- 2 large eggs, beaten: Acts as the glue, binding the flour and breadcrumb layers tightly to the chicken.
- Olive oil spray: Gives you that golden finish in the oven without excess fat.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for an easy cleanup. Lightly spray the parchment with olive oil spray to ensure your tenders don’t stick and help them crisp up beautifully.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Create a simple assembly line to make the coating process smooth and efficient: place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a third. This organization speeds things up and guarantees even coverage on every piece.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Strips
Pat each chicken tender dry with paper towels—this step is key to getting maximum crispiness. Dredge the piece lightly in flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture. This triple-layer coating locks in moisture while delivering that unforgettable crunch.
Step 4: Arrange and Prepare for Baking
Lay the coated chicken tenders out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, giving each piece some breathing room. Spritz the tops lightly with olive oil spray. This step ensures the coating bakes to a crispy, golden perfection without drying out the tender chicken inside.
Step 5: Bake to Crispy Perfection
Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through cooking. Keep an eye on their color—they should be beautifully golden and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re perfectly cooked and safe to eat.
Step 6: Serve Immediately with Your Favorite Dips
Once out of the oven, these tenders are best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve them with classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or tangy BBQ to create a flavorful dipping experience that everyone’s sure to love.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten up your plate with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or cilantro sprinkled over the tenders. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds a pop of brightness that complements the smoky paprika and Parmesan flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
For a well-rounded meal, pair your crispy chicken tenders with cool coleslaw, creamy mashed potatoes, or crunchy sweet potato fries. These sides add textural contrast and keep things comforting yet exciting for your taste buds.
Creative Ways to Present
Thinking beyond the plate? Turn your chicken tenders into tasty sliders with mini buns and your favorite toppings, or serve them on a platter with assorted dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering. Kids and adults alike will be impressed by these versatile presentations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover tenders (which might be tough when they’re this good), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Proper storage keeps them fresh and maintains most of their crispiness.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken tenders to enjoy later. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months and are perfect to thaw and reheat when needed.
Reheating
To revive that crispy texture, reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can lead to sogginess. Using the oven gives you that fresh-out-of-the-oven crunch all over again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just slice the chicken breast into strips about the same size as tenders so they cook evenly. This recipe works perfectly with either option.
Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko is recommended because it creates that signature light and extra-crispy coating, but if you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work—it just won’t be quite as crunchy.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free versions, and double-check that the spices and other ingredients are gluten-free to keep this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Do I need to flip the chicken tenders while baking?
Flipping halfway through baking helps the tenders brown evenly on both sides, but if you’re short on time, you can skip this step. Just keep an eye so they don’t burn on one side.
What dipping sauces go best with this recipe?
Classic favorites like honey mustard, ranch, and BBQ sauce all pair beautifully. For a twist, try sriracha mayo or a garlicky aioli to elevate your dipping experience.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about biting into perfectly golden, crispy chicken tenders that are tender, juicy, and packed with flavor. This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe strikes that magical balance effortlessly and is a reliable crowd-pleaser any day of the week. I can’t wait for you to try it, share it with your loved ones, and make it a delicious staple in your kitchen!
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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders recipe offers a healthier alternative to fried chicken without compromising on crunch or flavor. Coated in a seasoned mixture of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, these tenders bake to golden perfection in the oven, making them a quick and delicious meal suitable for the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or chicken breast, cut into strips
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coating and Others
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment paper with olive oil to prevent sticking and help crispen the chicken tenders.
- Prepare the Breading Station: Set up three separate dishes: one with all-purpose flour, a second with the beaten eggs, and a third with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This setup ensures an even coating on each chicken strip.
- Coat the Chicken: Pat the chicken strips dry using paper towels to help the coating adhere better. First, dredge each strip in the flour, shaking off any excess. Then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture until thoroughly coated.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer without overcrowding. Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with olive oil spray to aid browning and crispiness.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time for even browning. Bake until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Serve the crispy baked chicken tenders immediately while hot. They pair wonderfully with dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Ensure the chicken strips are patted dry before breading to achieve maximum crispiness.
- Flipping halfway through baking helps to brown the tenders evenly on both sides.
- You can substitute smoked paprika with regular paprika for a less smoky flavor.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For gluten-free variation, swap all-purpose flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
