If you’re on the hunt for a dish that’s irresistibly crunchy on the outside yet tender and juicy on the inside, you’re going to love this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feels like a guilty pleasure, but with baking instead of frying, it stays light and wholesome. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this recipe combines simple pantry staples to create a golden, flavorful coating that will have everyone coming back for seconds. From the smoky paprika to the nutty Parmesan, every bite bursts with taste and texture that’s downright addictive.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for the Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is a breeze, and each one plays a star role in flavor and crunch. These basics come together to create a beautifully balanced dish that’s both crispy and satisfying.
- Chicken tenders or chicken breast: The heart of the dish, providing tender, lean protein with a texture that crisps beautifully.
- Panko breadcrumbs: Their flaky texture is what delivers that signature crunch you’ll crave.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory, slightly nutty layer to the breading that deepens the flavor.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a subtle smoky warmth that makes every bite more exciting.
- Garlic powder: For a flavorful punch that complements the meat perfectly.
- Onion powder: Adds gentle sweetness and depth without overwhelming the dish.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the chicken and coating.
- All-purpose flour: The first layer that helps the egg and breadcrumbs stick better for an even crust.
- Eggs: Bind the breading ingredients and help create that golden exterior.
- Olive oil spray: Keeps the tenders moist and ensures a beautiful bake without deep frying.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your oven and baking sheet
Start by preheating your oven to a toasty 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and give it a light spritz of olive oil. This little trick keeps the tenders from sticking and helps them brown evenly for that perfect crispness.
Step 2: Set up your breading station
Organizing your workspace is half the fun! In one shallow dish, place the flour; in another, the beaten eggs; and in a third dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This setup makes coating each tenders quick, neat, and foolproof.
Step 3: Coat the chicken tenders
Pat your chicken strips dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture—this helps the breading stick better. First, toss each piece in the flour, then dip it into the eggs, and finally press it deeply into the breadcrumb mixture. Make sure each strip is fully covered to get that all-over crunch in every bite.
Step 4: Arrange and spray
Place each coated tender on your prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they bake evenly. A quick spray of olive oil over the top gives the crust a beautiful golden finish and helps mimic the crispiness of frying, but in a much healthier way.
Step 5: Bake until golden
Pop your tray in the oven and bake for about 18-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through to ensure they brown evenly on both sides. The telltale sign your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is ready is a golden color and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Sweet, crispy success!
Step 6: Serve with your favorite dips
The final step is the best: serving! These chicken tenders go amazingly well with classic dips like honey mustard, ranch, or tangy BBQ sauce. The contrast of creamy or sweet dip against the crunchy coating is pure comfort food magic.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a little grated Parmesan over your tenders for a pop of color and fresh taste. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens up the dish and adds a zing that balances the richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair these tenders with crispy oven-baked fries, a fresh garden salad, or some creamy coleslaw to round out the meal. For a cozy twist, mashed potatoes or steamed veggies also complement the dish perfectly while keeping things comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Elevate your presentation by serving your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe on a wooden board lined with parchment paper for a rustic vibe. You can also skewer them alongside colorful vegetable sticks or layer them in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for an easy, tasty lunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while maintaining much of their crispy texture.
Freezing
If you want to save them longer, flash-freeze the tenders on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen tenders will keep well for up to 2 months, making meal prep a breeze for busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat and bring back that crispiness, pop your tenders in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the crunchy coating—oven reheating is key!
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breast into even strips about the size of tenders. The coating and cooking method work beautifully on both for delicious results.
Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter, crunchier texture compared to regular breadcrumbs. They’re highly recommended for the signature crispiness, but if unavailable, regular breadcrumbs can work in a pinch.
Can I add spices or herbs to customize the recipe?
Definitely! Feel free to experiment with spices like cayenne for heat, Italian seasoning for herbaceous notes, or even a bit of lemon zest to add freshness to the breading mix.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is excellent for meal prepping. Bake a batch, store leftovers properly, and enjoy quick, tasty meals all week long!
What dipping sauces go best with these tenders?
Classic choices like honey mustard, ranch, and BBQ sauce are hits, but you can also try sriracha mayo, blue cheese dressing, or a tangy yogurt dip for variety.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is a game-changer when you want something deliciously crunchy without the hassle of frying. The combination of simple ingredients and a straightforward method means you’ll have golden, crave-worthy tenders on the table in no time. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover your own favorite way to serve these irresistible bites!
Print
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on the classic fried favorite, featuring a crunchy panko and Parmesan crust baked to golden perfection. Perfectly seasoned with smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powder, they are simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying, ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or game day snack.
Ingredients
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
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Other
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Sheet: 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 help prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Set Up Breading Station: Create three dishes: one with the flour, one with the beaten eggs, and a third with the breadcrumb mixture combining panko, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat Chicken Strips: Pat the chicken tenders dry using paper towels. Dip each piece first into the flour, then into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture ensuring each strip is evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken strips spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to achieve a crispy, golden crust while baking.
- Bake the Chicken: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Bake until the outside is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and serve immediately. Pair with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce for a flavorful meal.
Notes
- Patting the chicken dry before breading helps the coating adhere better and results in extra crispiness.
- Flipping halfway through baking ensures even browning on both sides.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature for food safety: 165°F (74°C).
- You can substitute chicken breasts for tenders but cut into uniform strips for even cooking.
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in buttermilk and spices before breading if time permits.
