Description
These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are golden, juicy, and packed with flavor—all without frying! They feature a crunchy panko and Parmesan coating, savory spices, and bake up perfectly crispy in the oven. Serve them as a family-friendly main, a snack, or even as a party appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders (cut into strips if using breasts)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
Breading Mixture
- 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
Other
- Olive oil spray (for coating)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, slice them into strips, each about 1-inch wide. If using ready chicken tenders, skip this slicing step.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: Set up two bowls—one with beaten eggs, and one combining panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly sprinkle your chicken strips or tenders with a pinch of salt and pepper to open up the meat’s savory flavor.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip in beaten egg, ensuring a full coat, and let any excess drip off. Then, coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so crumbs adhere. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb steps for double coating.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat. For best crispiness, set a wire rack on top for better airflow.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place each breaded tender on the prepared sheet or rack, spacing them out so they cook evenly and turn crisp.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray for extra crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crisp.
- Check for Doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are safely cooked and juicy inside.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch.
Notes
- Double-dipping (egg then crumbs again) gives a thicker, crunchier crust.
- Using a wire rack helps ensure even crispiness without soggy bottoms.
- Panko breadcrumbs yield a crunchier result than regular breadcrumbs.
- Add dried herbs or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mixture for variety.
- Leftovers can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to retain crunch.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 recipe (about 2-3 tenders)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Keywords: baked chicken tenders, oven fried chicken, crispy chicken strips, healthy chicken tenders, kid friendly dinner, party appetizers
