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
Scale
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
