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There’s something incredibly satisfying about the crunch of a perfectly baked chicken tender—especially when it’s made right in the comfort of your own kitchen. The first bite releases a symphony of flavors, where the golden, crispy crust meets the juicy, tender chicken inside. I remember one evening, after a long day of work, craving something warm and nostalgic. I decided to whip up these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, a dish that’s quickly become a weeknight staple in my house.

With just a handful of pantry ingredients, including panko breadcrumbs and a sprinkle of garlic and paprika, you’ll feel like a culinary rockstar in no time! What’s more, this recipe is not just about ease; it transforms an ordinary meal into a delightful experience that the whole family will love. So let’s dive in and bring the joy of homemade comfort food back to your dinner table!

Why Love Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?

Irresistible Crunch: The unique use of panko breadcrumbs ensures a delightful crispiness that’s hard to resist.

Quick to Make: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

Flavor Packed: With a blend of garlic and paprika, each bite is bursting with flavor that goes beyond basic chicken.

Kid-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will dive in eagerly, making this a family favorite.

Serve with Style: Pair with your favorite dipping sauces for endless serving options—perfect for entertaining!

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Ingredients

Get ready to make a family-favorite dish with these essential ingredients!

For the Chicken
• 1 lb chicken breasts or tenders – Cut into strips for perfect bite-size pieces.

For the Batter
• 2 large eggs – Beaten until smooth to help the breadcrumbs adhere beautifully.

For the Coating
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – Provides that superb crunch; regular breadcrumbs can work too!
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – Adds a rich, savory flavor to your tenders.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – Imparts a delicious aromatic flavor that pairs well with chicken.
• 1 tsp paprika – Gives a hint of sweetness and a warm color to your tenders.
• ½ tsp onion powder – Enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
• ½ tsp salt – Essential for bringing out the flavors in the chicken and coating.
• ¼ tsp black pepper – Adds a touch of spice to elevate the taste.

For Coating
• Olive oil spray – Lightly coats the tenders for that golden finish without excess fat.

Now you’ve got everything you need for the most delightful Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders that will wow your dinner guests!

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Prepare the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, start by cutting them into strips about 1-inch wide. This ensures even cooking and the perfect bite-sized pieces.
Beat the Eggs: In a bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. This will act as the binding agent to hold the delicious coating on your chicken strips.
Mix the Coating: In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. This flavorful mixture is what will give your tenders that irresistible crunch!
Season the Chicken: Sprinkle a pinch of salt and pepper on the chicken tenders to enhance their natural flavors. A little seasoning goes a long way!
Dip in Egg: Take each chicken strip and dip it first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect crisp!
Coat in Breadcrumbs: Next, coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere well. Don’t be shy—make sure it’s fully covered!
Double Dip for Crunch: For an extra crunchy coating, feel free to repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process on each strip. Trust me; the texture will be worth it!
Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. This will help the chicken cook evenly and prevent sticking.
Set Up Air Circulation: If you have one, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet. This allows air circulation for an even, golden finish.
Arrange the Chicken: Lay the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet (or wire rack), making sure to leave space between each piece. This ensures they bake evenly!
Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to preheat at 400°F (200°C) while you finish preparing your chicken tenders. A hot oven is key for that crispy texture!
Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the chicken tenders with olive oil spray before baking. This helps to achieve that beautiful golden color!
Bake to Perfection: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. Look for that golden brown color and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest Before Serving: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps to seal in the juices for tender taste!
Serve with Dipping Sauces: Enjoy your crispy baked chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces. They’re perfect for sharing at any gathering!

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

• Perfect Chicken Cuts: Ensure your chicken strips are uniform in size. This way, they all cook evenly, avoiding overcooked or undercooked pieces.

• Double Dipping Delight: For an even crunchier texture, don’t hesitate to double dip each tender in the egg and breadcrumb mixture—this enhances the crispy coating!

• Space and Air Flow: When arranging the chicken on the baking sheet, leave space between each tender. Proper air circulation prevents sogginess and ensures all sides get that desired crispiness.

• Watch the Time: Keep an eye on the baking time, particularly if using larger or thicker pieces. Baking longer can lead to dryness—always check the internal temperature (165°F/74°C).

• Flavor Variations: Experiment with spices in the breadcrumb mixture! Adding cayenne for heat or Italian herbs for a twist can elevate your crispy baked chicken tenders to the next level.

• Serving Suggestions: These tenders pair excellently with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy aioli—perfect for impressing your dinner guests!

What to Serve with Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?

When serving up these delightful chicken tenders, consider pairing them with delicious sides and drinks to create a memorable meal.

Creamy Mac and Cheese: The rich, cheesy goodness complements the crispy texture, making it a comforting duo that’s always a hit.
Fresh Coleslaw: This crunchy, tangy salad offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, savory chicken tenders. It adds a delightful crunch!
Sweet Potato Fries: Roasted to perfection, these naturally sweet fries provide a fantastic flavor balance and make for a colorful plate.
Garlic Bread: A warm, buttery slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up sauces, adding a cozy Italian twist to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: The vibrant greens not only add nutrients but also provide a fresh and healthy counterbalance to the crispy richness of the tenders.
Zesty Dipping Sauces: Don’t forget to serve an array of dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue, or spicy ranch for added flavor variety!
Fruit Salad: A light, fruity salad can be a refreshing side option, bringing sweetness that plays beautifully against the savory profile of the tenders.
Sparkling Lemonade: A bubbly, citrusy drink can elevate the dining experience, offering a bright, refreshing sip with every bite of chicken.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep, making weeknight dinners a breeze! You can bread the chicken strips up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate them on the baking sheet. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap to maintain their crispiness. To cook, simply preheat your oven and bake them straight from the fridge, adding an extra couple of minutes to the cook time as needed. If you want to prep even further, you can also cut the chicken and mix the breadcrumb coating ahead. This way, when it’s time to serve, you’ll have delicious homemade tenders ready to go with minimal effort, just as satisfying as if you made them from scratch that day!

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful twists that will make your chicken tenders even more exciting!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead of panko for a crispy alternative.
Spicy Kick: Add 1 tsp of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the egg mixture for an extra kick that spicy food lovers will appreciate.
Herb-Infused: Mix in 1 tbsp of dried Italian herbs like oregano or basil into the breadcrumb mixture for a fresh, aromatic flavor.
Parmesan Boost: Increase the Parmesan cheese to 1 cup, or add a blend of different cheeses for a more decadent touch that melts beautifully.
Zesty Citrus: Incorporate lemon or lime zest into the breadcrumb mixture to brighten the dish with a refreshing zing that pairs wonderfully with chicken.
Coconut Crunch: Substitute half of the breadcrumbs with unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical flavor and unique texture that will transport you to paradise.
Veggie Power: Add finely chopped vegetables like spinach or bell peppers to the breadcrumb mixture for added nutrition and a pop of color in each bite.
Sweet & Savory: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup on top before baking for a sweet twist that perfectly balances the savory flavors of the tenders.

With these variations, your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders will not only remain a crowd pleaser but also offer new surprises each time you make them!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Room Temperature: Store leftover chicken tenders at room temperature for up to 2 hours, ensuring they’re covered to prevent them from drying out.

Fridge: Keep your crispy baked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating in the oven is recommended to maintain their crunch.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze coated but uncooked chicken tenders on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating: To enjoy your stored tenders, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best chicken for my tenders?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken, look for boneless, skinless breasts or tenders that are pink, with no dark spots or signs of spoilage. Fresh chicken should feel firm and spring back when pressed. If you’re using breasts, aim for a uniform size so they cook evenly.

How should I store leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
For the best taste, store your leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing. If you’re looking to maintain that delicious crunch, it’s best to reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Can I freeze cooked chicken tenders? How?
Yes, you can! To freeze your crispy baked chicken tenders, let them cool completely, then arrange them on a baking sheet without overlapping. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours. After that, transfer them to a freezer bag or an airtight container and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven until they are heated through and crispy.

What if my tenders turn out soggy?
The more the merrier, right? To prevent sogginess, ensure that there is proper air circulation while baking by spacing the chicken tenders on the baking sheet. If you’re using a wire rack, that’s even better! Also, remember to adequately spray them with olive oil before baking; this helps promote a golden, crisp finish. If they’re already soggy, you can try reheating them in the oven to restore some crunch.

Are there any dietary considerations for my chicken tenders?
Very! If you’re concerned about allergies, ensure you check the labels on your breadcrumbs for any gluten or nut ingredients. If cooking for pets, avoid giving them any seasoned or breaded chicken, as spices and oils can be harmful. Always consult your vet about safe foods for your furry friends!

What should I do if I don’t have panko breadcrumbs?
Don’t worry! If you can’t find panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs will work, though they might not provide that same extra crunch. For an alternative texture, try crushing crackers or using crushed cornflakes. Each option provides a unique twist while still achieving that delightful crispy exterior!