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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 139 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • 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

Units Scale

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

  1. Prep the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch wide strips. If you have chicken tenders, you can skip this step.
  2. 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.
  3. Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.
  8. 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.
  9. 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

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