Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Why You’ll Love Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

This recipe for crispy baked chicken tenders is a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness. The chicken is coated with a seasoned breadcrumb mixture that crisps up beautifully in the oven, without the need for frying. It’s a healthier option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite spices or dips, making it a versatile dish for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders or chicken breast cut into strips

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 1 large egg

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.

2. In a shallow bowl, whisk the egg. In another shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Dip each chicken tender into the egg, coating it thoroughly, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.

4. Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle them with olive oil or melted butter to help achieve a golden, crispy crust.

5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

6. Once baked, remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Chicken Tenders: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.

• Parmesan-Crusted Chicken Tenders: Double the amount of Parmesan cheese in the breadcrumb mixture for an extra cheesy, crispy coating.

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to make this dish suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

• Herb-Infused: Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the breadcrumb mixture for an herbal twist.

• Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds for a low-carb version of these tenders.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat the tenders in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?

Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to make your own tenders. Just ensure they are uniform in size for even cooking.

2. Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tenders ahead of time, coat them, and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. This will help the coating set and stay crispy.

3. Can I freeze the chicken tenders before cooking them?

Yes, you can freeze the uncooked chicken tenders. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

4. How can I make these chicken tenders even crispier?

To make them crispier, try using panko breadcrumbs, which are lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs. You can also spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking to ensure a crispier crust.

5. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can substitute Parmesan with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend of your favorites for different flavors.

6. Are these chicken tenders spicy?

The recipe as written is not spicy, but you can add cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture to give them a spicy kick.

7. Can I air fry these chicken tenders?

Yes, you can air fry these chicken tenders at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

8. What dipping sauces go well with these chicken tenders?

Popular dipping sauces include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, buffalo sauce, or a creamy garlic sauce.

9. Can I make these tenders without egg?

Yes, you can substitute the egg with a mixture of 2 tablespoons of milk or a dairy-free alternative, or even use a flax egg as a vegan substitute.

10. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when fully cooked. You can check with a meat thermometer to ensure it’s done.

Conclusion

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders offer the perfect combination of flavor, crunch, and tenderness without the need for deep frying. Whether you’re feeding the family, prepping for a busy week, or serving up snacks for friends, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Customize them with your favorite spices or dips for an easy, delicious meal that everyone can enjoy!