Print

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 28 reviews

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on the classic fried favorite. Coated in a flavorful mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices, these chicken strips bake to golden perfection with a satisfyingly crunchy exterior and juicy interior. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they pair well with a variety of dipping sauces and require minimal oil thanks to baking instead of frying.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

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

Breading

  • 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

Additional

  • Olive oil spray (for coating)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch-wide strips. If using pre-cut chicken tenders, you can skip this step.
  2. Prepare the Breading Stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a separate bowl, mix together panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance flavor before breading.
  4. Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so the coating sticks. For a crunchier crust, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping once more to double coat.
  5. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. If available, place a wire rack on top for better air circulation and crispness.
  6. Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the tray or rack, spacing them evenly so they bake uniformly.
  7. Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray to help them crisp up. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until they are golden brown and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch dressing.

Notes

  • Using panko breadcrumbs results in a crispier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
  • Double coating the chicken tenders increases crunchiness but also adds a bit more breading.
  • If you don’t have a wire rack, flipping the tenders halfway through baking helps them crisp evenly.
  • Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it is safe to eat.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory flavor to the coating.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken tenders, baked chicken strips, healthy chicken tenders, chicken finger recipe, oven baked chicken, kid-friendly chicken, easy chicken recipe

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