Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders That Melt in Your Mouth
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken breast (tender, boneless cuts are best for a juicy bite); to taste Salt (essential seasoning); to taste Pepper (essential seasoning); 1 cup All-purpose flour (creates a base that helps adhere the seasonings and breadcrumbs); 2 large Eggs (beaten for binding); 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (provides extra crunch); 1 teaspoon Garlic powder (adds aromatic warmth); 1 teaspoon Paprika (gives smoky depth); 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (blend of herbs)

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As I watched my niece’s eyes widen in excitement over a plate of golden-brown crispy baked chicken tenders, I realized how these delightful bites could turn any ordinary day into a family feast. Nothing compares to the satisfaction of creating homemade meals that not only please the palate but also foster togetherness. This easy-to-follow crispy baked chicken tenders recipe is both a crowd-pleaser and a healthier alternative to store-bought options, making it a win for everyone. With minimal prep time and a few simple ingredients, you’ll whip up these tender delights that are packed with flavor and irresistible crunch. Want to discover how to make chicken tenders that rival your favorite diner’s? Let's dive in!

Why Are These Chicken Tenders So Irresistible?

Crispy texture: Baked to perfection, each tender boasts a crunchy coating that makes you feel like you’re biting into a deep-fried treat without the guilt.

Flavor explosion: Juicy chicken, seasoned just right, delivers a savory punch that will have everyone reaching for seconds.

Family-friendly: These tenders are loved by kids and adults alike, making them a perfect addition to any dinner table or game night.

Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes in the oven, your craving for delicious homemade chicken tenders will be satisfied in no time.

For more crispy chicken inspiration, check out our Crock Pot Chicken or try making Crockpot Chicken Breast for a simple meal!

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Ingredients

• Get ready to create the most delectable and crunchy chicken tenders your family will adore!

For the Chicken

Chicken breast – tender, boneless cuts are best for a juicy bite.
Salt and pepper – essential seasonings that enhance the chicken's natural flavors.

For the Coating

All-purpose flour – this creates a base that helps adhere the seasonings and breadcrumbs.
Eggs – beaten for binding, ensuring the coating sticks perfectly!
Panko breadcrumbs – these provide that extra crunch that makes these tenders irresistible.

For the Seasoning

Garlic powder – adds aromatic warmth that elevates the flavor profile.
Paprika – gives a smoky depth and a beautiful color to your tenders.
Italian seasoning – a perfect blend that brings a medley of herbs into each bite.

With these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Ingredients, you're on your way to a scrumptious meal that banishes fast food cravings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that the chicken tenders will cook evenly and achieve that delightful crispiness. While the oven warms up, gather your baking sheets and line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Take your tender boneless chicken breasts and season them generously with salt and pepper, which enhances their natural flavors. Slice them into evenly sized strips, about 1 inch wide. This uniformity ensures each piece cooks at the same rate, giving you perfectly juicy and crispy baked chicken tenders.

Step 3: Set Up the Breading Station
In three separate shallow dishes, create your breading station. In the first dish, add all-purpose flour; in the second, beat a couple of eggs until smooth; and in the third, mix panko breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, and Italian seasoning. This organized setup will streamline the coating process and make it easier to achieve that irresistible crunch.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken
One by one, take each chicken strip and first dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated, followed by the panko breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to create a thick, crunchy layer. Repeat this process until all strips are coated.

Step 5: Bake the Chicken Tenders
Arrange the breaded chicken strips on the prepared baking sheets in a single layer, ensuring they have enough space to breathe. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. You’ll know they’re ready when they're golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the crispy baked chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheets for about 5 minutes. This resting time allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them tender and moist. Serve these delightful tenders warm with your favorite dipping sauces for a fun and satisfying meal.

What to Serve with Chocolate Chip Cookies

There’s something magical about adding delightful accompaniments to warm, gooey chocolate chip cookies, turning them into the perfect treat.

Cold Milk: A classic pairing, the creaminess of cold milk balances the sweetness of the cookies while complementing their chocolatey richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Dreamily smooth and creamy, this addition creates a delightful contrast, transforming the cookies into an indulgent sundae delight.
Fresh Berries: Juicy strawberries or raspberries add a burst of freshness, cutting through the sweetness and bringing a vibrant touch to your dessert.
Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of coffee enhance the rich chocolate notes, creating a delightful harmony between the type of cookie and the beverage.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel on top adds a sweet and buttery flavor, elevating the cookie experience to gourmet dessert levels.
Nutty Trail Mix: Adding a crunchy, savory element like nutty trail mix creates a balanced contrast, making each bite exciting and full of texture.
Chocolate Milkshake: A rich chocolate milkshake will take your dessert to the next level, providing a luscious, creamy experience that's irresistible.
Sweet Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, sweet whipped cream can be dolloped on top or served as a dip for your cookies, adding an elegant touch to the experience.

Expert Tips for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Coating Mastery: Ensure every piece is thoroughly coated in flour, egg, and then panko. This method creates a perfect crunchy crust that will leave you satisfied.
Uniform Strips: Cut chicken into equal sizes for consistent cooking. Uneven pieces can lead to some being undercooked while others are overdone.
Don’t Crowd the Pan: Give the tenders space on the baking sheet. Crowding can trap steam and prevent a crisp texture, so bake in batches if necessary.
Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on your tenders around the 15-minute mark. Overbaking can result in dry chicken, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for the juiciest results.
Flavor Variations: Feel free to get creative with spices! Swap in your favorite seasonings for a personalized touch while maintaining the crispy baked chicken tenders you love.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bread the chicken strips and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, which keeps the coating fresh and crunchy. For best results, arrange the prepared tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge. This allows you to save precious time on busy weeknights. When ready to bake, simply preheat your oven and pop them in for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. You’ll have delicious, homemade chicken tenders ready to impress with minimal effort, making family dinners both easy and enjoyable!

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Fridge: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure they are fully cooled before sealing to maintain their crispy texture.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap each cooled chicken tender individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will last for up to 2 months, making it easy to enjoy homemade chicken tenders anytime.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through (about 15 minutes). This method restores their crispy goodness, unlike microwaving.

Serving: Pair your reheated chicken tenders with your favorite dipping sauces for a tasty snack or meal that evokes family gatherings.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize your crispy baked chicken tenders with these fun and tasty twists!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with almond flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for a delicious alternative.
Cheesy Goodness: Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese to your panko mixture for a rich, cheesy flavor enhancement.
Spicy Kick: Mix cayenne pepper or chili powder into your seasoning blend for a zesty heat that everyone will love.
Herb Infusion: Swap Italian seasoning for fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to lend a delightful earthy aroma to your tenders.
Sweet and Savory: Brush the tenders with honey mustard before coating for a perfect balance of sweetness and savory crunch.
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Salad: Chop cooked tenders into bite-sized pieces and toss with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and ranch dressing for a hearty salad.
Air Fryer Option: Cook the breaded tenders in an air fryer at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes for an extra crispy and healthier version.
Asian-Inspired Twist: Incorporate sesame seeds into the panko mix and serve with a soy dipping sauce for an exotic flavor profile.

With so many delicious options, there's no end to the possibilities! If you're searching for more chicken ideas, check out our delectable Hawaiian Chicken Sheet recipe or try out our unique One Pot Chicken Stroganoff for a delightful twist!

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best chicken for my tenders?
Absolutely! When selecting chicken breasts, look for boneless cuts that are firm and pink, with no dark spots or unpleasant odors. Fresh chicken will have a slightly moist surface and should be free of any excessive liquid. Using high-quality chicken makes all the difference in taste and texture!

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken tenders?
Leftover crispy baked chicken tenders should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge. Ensure they are completely cooled before sealing to maintain their crunch. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just remember to place a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture.

Can I freeze my chicken tenders?
Yes, very much! To freeze your chicken tenders, wrap each cooled tender individually in plastic wrap and then put them in a freezer-safe bag. This prevents freezer burn and allows you to enjoy them later. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you're ready to eat, just follow the reheating instructions below!

What’s the best way to reheat frozen chicken tenders?
For optimal results, reheat frozen chicken tenders in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place your tenders on a baking sheet. Bake them for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make them soggy.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you're preparing these tenders for someone with allergies, always check the labels on your ingredients, especially the breadcrumbs, as they may contain gluten or other allergens. For a healthier alternative, feel free to use whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Also, keep in mind that while these chicken tenders are perfect for family gatherings, they may not be suitable for pets due to seasoning or additives.