When the craving for something satisfying strikes, it often comes down to nostalgia, and crispy chicken tenders hit that sweet spot every time. The delightful crunch combined with juicy, tender chicken creates a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious. But what if I told you that you can enjoy this classic without the guilt of frying? Enter my Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders—a healthier take on a beloved favorite!
I stumbled upon this recipe during one of those busy weeknights when takeout felt like the only option. Instead, I decided to whip up a batch of homemade tenders, using simple ingredients that not only deliver an irresistible crunch but also make meal prep a breeze. With a golden-brown exterior and the option to customize the flavors with ingredients like Parmesan or your favorite spices, these tenders are perfect for both family dinners and elegant gatherings. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that promises satisfying bites without the hassle of frying!
Why love Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the classic crunch without the excess oil! These tenders deliver guilt-free satisfaction.
Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights, you’ll have dinner ready in no time with just a few simple steps.
Customizable Flavor: Tailor to your taste with optional Parmesan or your favorite spices to make them uniquely yours.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these homemade treats, making mealtime a breeze for everyone.
Meal Prep Friendly: Easily freeze breaded tenders for future meals. Just bake from frozen when hunger strikes!
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Impress guests at gatherings with these tender, crispy bites that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try pairing them with a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauces for an unforgettable experience!
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Ingredients
Get ready for a flavor-packed experience!
For the Chicken
• Chicken Breasts or Tenders – A lean protein source ideal for tender strips that cook evenly.
For the Breading
• Eggs – Beaten until smooth to help the breadcrumbs stick for that classic coating.
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Light and crispy for the perfect crunchy texture; you can swap with regular breadcrumbs if necessary.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional) – Adds a rich, savory flavor to your tenders; try nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.
For the Seasoning
• Garlic Powder – Boosts flavor without overpowering, making each bite delicious.
• Paprika – For a hint of smokiness and vibrant color in your coating.
• Onion Powder – Complements garlic beautifully, enhancing the taste profile.
• Salt – Essential for bringing out all the wonderful flavors.
• Black Pepper – Adds a mild kick to the seasoning mix, balancing sweetness and savoriness.
For Crispiness
• Olive Oil Spray – A light spritz promotes golden-brown color and crunch without the need for frying.
Grab your ingredients, and let’s create these delightful Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders that everyone will enjoy!
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- Prep the Chicken: If you’re using chicken breasts, cut them into strips for even cooking, making it easier to achieve that perfect crunch while ensuring tenderness inside.
- Prepare Breading Stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful coating.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly sprinkle all sides of the chicken strips with salt and pepper, ensuring each piece is well-seasoned to enhance flavor.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten egg, ensuring it’s fully coated. Then, transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture for coating. For an extra crispy texture, consider dipping again for double coating.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. For better air circulation and even crisping, place a wire rack on top if you have one.
- Arrange for Baking: Lay out the breaded chicken strips on the prepared sheet, making sure to leave some space between each piece for optimal browning.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil to encourage crisping. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they reach a golden-brown color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few moments before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch for a delightful meal.
Optional: Serve with a side of fresh salad or roasted vegetables for a full meal experience.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the chicken strips up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator, ensuring they stay fresh and ready for baking. To maintain that delightful crispiness, lay the breaded tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. When you’re set to serve, simply preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and cooked through. This method not only saves time but guarantees you’ll still enjoy the same delicious, crunchy coating without any hassle!
How to Store and Freeze Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Fridge: Keep cooked chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help maintain their crispy texture while preventing moisture build-up.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze uncooked, breaded chicken tenders in a single layer. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen with additional time for perfect results.
Reheating: To revive leftover cooked tenders, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. This will help restore their crunchiness, making them just as enjoyable as when freshly made.
Meal Prep Friendly: Consider making a double batch of these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders to enjoy on busy nights or lunch options throughout the week!
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Variations
Feel free to get creative and adapt this recipe to suit your tastes! Your kitchen is your playground, so let’s explore some delightful twists.
- Thighs Substitution: Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier bite and richer flavor. The added fat from thighs adds to the tenderness!
- Gluten-Free: Swap panko breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives like crushed cornflakes or almond flour. Enjoy the same crunch without the gluten!
- Spice It Up: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a kick of heat. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference!
- Italian Flair: Incorporate Italian herbs like oregano, basil, or a bit of dried parsley into the breadcrumbs. This adds a lovely aroma and enhances the flavor beautifully.
- Honey Mustard Twist: Mix honey into your egg wash for a sweet undertone that pairs perfectly with the crispy texture. It creates a delightful contrast!
- Nutritional Yeast: To make this dish dairy-free, replace Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast. It adds a cheesy flavor while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
- Veggie Boost: Blend finely grated zucchini or carrots into your breadcrumb mixture for a hidden veggie twist, adding moisture and nutrition without sacrificing flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika instead of regular to introduce a rich, smoky depth that complements the crispy exterior wonderfully. Perfect for barbecue lovers!
Expert Tips for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- Use a Wire Rack: Place a wire rack on your baking sheet to enhance air circulation, resulting in even crispiness on all sides.
- Don’t Skip Preheating: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures that your chicken tenders cook evenly and achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
- Double Coating for Extra Crunch: For an extra crispy texture, consider double-coating your chicken by dipping it in the egg and breadcrumb mixture twice before baking.
- Watch Cooking Times: Keep an eye on your chicken tenders as cooking times may vary, especially if you’re using chicken thighs, which may need a longer bake.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the crispy baked chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps maintain their juicy tenderness while enhancing the flavor.
What to Serve with Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Creating a complete meal alongside these succulent tenders makes for an unforgettable dining experience. Let your flavors intertwine and shine with these delightful suggestions.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery smoothness of mashed potatoes contrasts wonderfully with the crispy texture, creating a comforting and satisfying dish.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A vibrant salad adds a freshness that balances the richness of the tenders, making your meal feel light and healthy. Toss in a zesty vinaigrette for extra flavor!
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries not only offer a sweet counterpart but also provide a delicious crunch that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
- Honey Mustard Dipping Sauce: Elevate your meal with a sweet and tangy dipping sauce that complements the savory notes of the chicken, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Grilled Vegetables: The smokiness of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus pairs well with the tenders, adding a delightful texture and flavor combo.
- Garlic Bread: For a comforting touch, serve warm garlic bread on the side; its buttery, garlicky goodness makes it irresistible.
- Sparkling Lemonade: Pair your meal with a refreshing drink like sparkling lemonade, offering a bright, citrusy contrast to the savory tenders.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with warm chocolate chip cookies; the gooey chocolate pairs wonderfully after savoring chicken tenders.
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs
What kind of chicken should I use for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
For the best results, I recommend using boneless chicken breasts or tenderloins, as they provide a lean protein source and cook evenly. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, chicken thighs can also work well but may require slight adjustments in cooking time.
How can I store Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
After enjoying your homemade tenders, place any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To keep them crispy, I suggest reheating them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Can I freeze uncooked chicken tenders?
Absolutely! To freeze uncooked, breaded chicken tenders, lay them out in a single layer on a baking sheet and place them in the freezer. Once they are solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, cook them straight from frozen, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
What should I do if my chicken tenders aren’t crisping up?
If your chicken tenders are coming out less crispy than desired, ensure the following:
- Use a Wire Rack: A wire rack on your baking sheet allows hot air to circulate around the tenders, promoting even crispiness.
- Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking. This is key to achieving that golden crunch.
- Double Coat: For extra crunch, consider double-coating the tenders by dipping them in the egg and breadcrumb mixture twice, ensuring an enticingly crispy coating!
Can I make these tenders dairy-free?
Yes! You can easily adjust this recipe to be dairy-free by omitting the Parmesan cheese or substituting it with nutritional yeast for added flavor. This makes it a great option for those with dairy allergies or those following a dairy-free diet.
Irresistibly Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders That Wow Every Bite
Equipment
- Oven
- Baking Sheet
- Wire rack
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 pound Chicken Breasts or Tenders
For the Breading
- 2 large Eggs Beaten until smooth
- 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs Light and crispy; can swap with regular breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional; adds savory flavor
For the Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Paprika
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
For Crispiness
- 10 sprays Olive Oil Spray For promoting crunch
Instructions
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- Prep the Chicken: Cut chicken breasts into strips for even cooking.
- Prepare Breading Stations: Beat eggs until smooth, mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly sprinkle chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into beaten egg, then into breadcrumb mixture.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line with parchment paper or silicone mat and place a wire rack on top.
- Arrange for Baking: Lay out breaded strips with space in between.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F, spray chicken with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes.
- Serve: Allow to rest, then serve with dipping sauces.
Notes
Nutrition
Leave a Comment