Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Introduction
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders make for a perfect meal that both kids and adults will love. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also delicious and healthier than frying. Using the oven to bake these tenders ensures a crispy texture while keeping them juicy inside. Whether you serve them for dinner, a party, or a game day snack, they are sure to be a hit!
Why Make This Recipe
Choosing to make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders means you can enjoy a wonderful meal without the guilt of frying. Baked chicken tenders have a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor thanks to the seasoning and breading. They’re also easy to customize, so you can make them suit your taste preferences. Plus, you can prepare a large batch ahead of time and store some for later!
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders (cut into strips)
- 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
- Olive oil spray (for coating)
Directions
Prep the Chicken: Start by cutting the chicken breasts into strips if you’re not using pre-cut chicken tenders. Make sure they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up three bowls: one with beaten eggs, another with the panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, and the last one for plain flour if you prefer a three-step breading process.
Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip first into the beaten eggs, then into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to make sure the breadcrumbs stick well.
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Make sure they do not touch each other to allow even baking.
Bake the Chicken Tenders: Spray the tops of the chicken strips lightly with olive oil. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with your favorite dipping sauce!
How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders can be served with a variety of sides and dips. They go well with classic dipping sauces like barbecue, ranch, honey mustard, or ketchup. For a complete meal, serve them with a side of salad, steamed veggies, or fries.
How to Store Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. To reheat, you can place them in the oven again at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Tips to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- For an extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- You can marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk for a few hours before breading them to enhance their tenderness.
- If you want a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture.
Variation
You can create variations of this recipe by changing the seasonings or using different types of cheese in the breadcrumb mixture. For a healthier option, you can use whole wheat breadcrumbs.
FAQs
Q1: Can I freeze Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Yes, these tenders can be frozen. Just ensure they are completely cool, then place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Q2: How do I know when the chicken tenders are done?
The tenders are done when they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Q3: Can I use skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Skinless chicken thighs can be used for a juicier option. Just make sure they are cut into similar-sized strips for even cooking.
Enjoy making your crispy baked chicken tenders, and watch them disappear from the plate!
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
For the Chicken Tenders
- 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders cut into strips
- 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
- Olive oil spray for coating
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the chicken breasts into strips if you are not using pre-cut chicken tenders. Make sure they are all roughly the same size for even cooking.
- Set up three bowls: one with beaten eggs, another with the panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper, and the last one for plain flour if you prefer a three-step breading process.
- Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Dip each chicken strip first into the beaten eggs, then into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the breadcrumbs stick well.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Place the breaded chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they do not touch each other.
- Spray the tops of the chicken strips lightly with olive oil.
Cooking
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving.
