I absolutely love this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe because it nails that perfect crunch without the mess of deep frying. When I first tried baking chicken tenders instead of frying, I was skeptical about whether they’d be as crispy and flavorful—but this method blew me away! You get that beautiful golden crust and tender, juicy chicken on the inside every single time.
This recipe works so well when you want a simple, crowd-pleasing meal that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re feeding the kids on a busy weeknight or need an easy appetizer for your next game day, these tenders hit the spot. Plus, baking them means less oil and easier cleanup, which I know you’ll appreciate!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfectly Crispy Texture: Baking with panko breadcrumbs and a light olive oil spray gives you that satisfying crunch without frying.
- Simple Ingredients: No fancy or hard-to-find ingredients—just what you likely already have in your pantry.
- Kid-Approved and Crowd-Pleasing: This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe always disappears quickly at my family table.
- Easy Cleanup: Baking on a lined sheet or wire rack means less scrubbing later, a win in my book!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together for a deliciously crispy coating that locks in juicy chicken flavor. When shopping, I recommend using panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch and Parmesan for a subtle savory depth.
- Chicken breasts or chicken tenders: Tender white meat that cooks quickly and stays juicy when breaded and baked.
- Eggs: Acts as a glue to make breadcrumbs stick nicely to the chicken.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style crumbs give the tenders that prized light, crispy crunch you want.
- Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a hint of nutty flavor that elevates the breadcrumb coating.
- Garlic powder: Gives an aromatic punch that blends beautifully with the other spices.
- Paprika: Adds color and mild smokiness for a richer taste.
- Onion powder: Provides a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning every layer properly.
- Olive oil spray: Spritzing helps achieve a golden, crispy crust without extra calories or mess.
Variations
I like to mix things up a bit depending on the mood and what I have around. Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices or try different coatings to find your family’s favorite twist on this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe.
- Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix—my family loves the little extra heat for game night snacks.
- Gluten-Free Version: Swap panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes; works beautifully without losing crispiness.
- Herb Infusion: Mix fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary into the breadcrumbs for a fragrant, elegant touch.
- Vegan Alternative: Use chickpea flour or a flax egg to bind with the breadcrumbs and swap chicken for tofu strips for a plant-based option.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Chicken
If you’re using chicken breasts, start by slicing them into roughly 1-inch-wide strips—that’s the perfect size for crispy tenders. If you have chicken tenders on hand, you can skip this step! Make sure your chicken pieces are roughly the same size so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Step 2: Set Up the Breading Stations
You’re going to create two bowls—one with beaten eggs and the other with the breadcrumb mixture. The breadcrumb bowl has panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper all mixed together. This combo packs tons of flavor and texture you’ll notice with every bite.
Step 3: Season and Bread the Chicken
Season the chicken strips lightly with salt and pepper, then dip each piece into the egg bowl, letting the excess drip back. Next, coat well with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it sticks. For an extra crunch, I like to dip each strip again in egg and breadcrumbs for a double layer—that’s a little extra work but so worth it!
Step 4: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Line your baking sheet with parchment paper or use a silicone mat to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. If you have a wire rack, placing it on the tray is a game-changer because air circulates all around the tenders, helping the coating crisp up beautifully instead of steaming on the bottom.
Step 5: Bake Your Crispy Chicken Tenders
Arrange the breaded tenders on your baking sheet or wire rack with space between them. Spray lightly with olive oil spray—that little spritz adds a golden finish. Bake in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning. Keep an eye out for a golden crust and make sure they reach at least 165°F (74°C) inside for safety.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
After baking, give the tenders a few minutes to rest before serving—that helps seal in the juices. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ for a game-day favorite or a casual weeknight dinner everyone will ask for again.
Pro Tips for Making Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Use Panko for Crunch: Panko breadcrumbs are my go-to because they create that coveted light and crispy texture that regular breadcrumbs don’t quite achieve.
- Double Coat for Extra Crispiness: I discovered that dipping tenders twice in egg and crumbs gives a thicker, crunchier crust that’s worth the little extra effort.
- Bake on a Wire Rack: Placing tenders over a wire rack lets air circulate all around, crispening every side and preventing soggy bottoms.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Giving each piece space ensures even baking and prevents steaming, which keeps the crust crispy.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
I like to sprinkle fresh chopped parsley or a light dusting of extra Parmesan right on top—it adds a fresh, bright note that complements the crispy coating perfectly. A squeeze of lemon juice is another simple touch that cuts through the richness and wakes up the flavors.
Side Dishes
These tenders pair so well with a crisp side salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal. For comfort food vibes, I love serving them with creamy mashed potatoes or crispy oven-baked fries. And don’t forget the dipping sauces—I’m a big fan of ranch and honey mustard spreads for dunking.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun party platter, arrange tenders with colorful bowls of assorted dips and sprinkle chopped green onions or fresh herbs to brighten the tray. I’ve also tried making chicken tender sliders by popping them into mini buns with some crisp lettuce and a swipe of sauce—instant crowd pleaser!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Let them cool completely before sealing to avoid sogginess. They taste great cold too, but I usually prefer reheating for that crispy finish.
Freezing
If I want to prep ahead, I freeze the breaded tenders on a baking sheet first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. This way, they don’t stick together and you can bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to get that perfect crunch.
Reheating
To reheat and keep them crispy, I pop leftover tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you can—it makes the coating soggy, and nobody wants that!
FAQs
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Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Yes! You can bake frozen chicken tenders straight from the freezer—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time. Make sure to check the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C) for safety. Also, keep an eye on the coating to ensure it crisps nicely.
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What if I don’t have a wire rack for baking?
No worries! You can bake the tenders directly on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Just be sure to flip them halfway through baking to promote even crispiness on both sides. The wire rack just helps circulation but isn’t mandatory.
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How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative like crushed gluten-free crackers, gluten-free panko, or even crushed cornflakes. The rest of the recipe remains unchanged.
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Can I prepare the breaded chicken tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bread the tenders and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. Keep them covered tightly to prevent drying out. Alternatively, freeze them as described above for longer storage.
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What dipping sauces pair best with Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Classic options like honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo work brilliantly. I like to offer a few choices so everyone can dunk to their heart’s content!
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it’s reliable, easy, and everyone loves the results. I hope you give it a try and find it as satisfying as I do—perfectly crispy, juicy, and full of flavor without the hassle of frying. When you make this, it’s like sharing a little bit of comfort and joy with whoever’s at your table. Happy baking!
Print
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on classic fried chicken strips, offering a crunchy breadcrumb coating baked to golden perfection. This easy recipe uses simple ingredients like chicken breasts or tenders, eggs, panko breadcrumbs, and a blend of spices to create a flavorful, satisfying meal that pairs well with a variety of dipping sauces. Perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders, cut into 1-inch strips if using breasts
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
For Baking
- Olive oil spray for coating
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch wide strips. If you have chicken tenders, you can skip this step.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: Beat the eggs until smooth in one bowl. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, letting excess drip off. Then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure even adhesion. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping to create a double coating.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Optionally, place a wire rack on top to allow air circulation for crispier tenders.
- Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken strips on the baking sheet or wire rack with some space between each to ensure even cooking.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the chicken tenders with olive oil spray to aid crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping each strip halfway through the cooking time. The tenders should be golden brown and crispy.
- Check for Doneness: Verify the internal temperature of the chicken has reached 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Serve and Enjoy: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after baking. Serve warm with your favorite dips such as honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing.
Notes
- For a more intense flavor, add additional spices like cayenne pepper or Italian seasoning to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Using a wire rack while baking allows air to circulate all around the tenders, making them crispier.
- Double coating the chicken tenders ensures an extra crunchy texture similar to fried chicken.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.
- This recipe can be adapted to gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 oz chicken)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
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