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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

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These crispy baked chicken tenders are the perfect healthy alternative to fried chicken. With a golden, crunchy coating and juicy tender chicken inside, these oven-baked tenders are a family favorite. Enjoy a crispy texture without the extra calories, perfect for meal prep, snacks, or a quick weeknight dinner. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce for an added flavor boost!

Ingredients

  • 1 lb chicken tenders (about 8 tenders)
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • Cooking spray (for spraying the tenders)

Instructions

  • Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
  • Prepare the coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  • Set up the dredging station: In separate shallow bowls, place the flour in one and beaten eggs in another.
  • Coat the chicken: First, dip each chicken tender into the flour, coating it completely. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, then into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing down gently to coat well.
  • Arrange on baking sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them out so they don’t touch. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray to help them crisp up in the oven.
  • Bake the tenders: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Serve: Let the chicken tenders rest for a couple of minutes before serving with your favorite dipping sauces.

Notes

  • If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, but panko will give a crispier texture.
  • For extra flavor, you can add Italian seasoning or cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Make sure not to crowd the tenders on the baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly and crisp up nicely.
  • These tenders are great for dipping in ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce.