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Golden crispy baked chicken tenders arranged on a white plate with dipping sauces, garnished with fresh herbs

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders: A Family Favorite Made Easy

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Discover how to make irresistibly crispy baked chicken tenders that are perfect for family dinners. Easy, healthy, and full of flavor, these homemade chicken tenders are a crowd-pleaser for all ages, offering a healthier alternative to fried chicken with a crunchy exterior and tender interior. Ideal for quick weeknight meals, snacks, or party appetizers, enjoy the perfect balance of crispiness and juiciness in every bite.

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or tenders
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Start by rinsing the chicken and patting it dry. Cut the chicken into strips approximately 1-inch wide for even cooking and optimal crispiness.
  2. Set up your breading station: place flour in a shallow dish, beat eggs in another dish, and combine breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a third dish.
  3. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, shaking off excess. Dip into the beaten eggs, then coat thoroughly with the seasoned breadcrumbs. For extra crunch, double-dip by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
  4. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Lightly spray or brush the chicken tenders with olive oil. Arrange them evenly on the baking sheet without overlapping.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

Notes

  • Add grated Parmesan cheese to breadcrumbs for enhanced flavor and crunch.
  • Using panko breadcrumbs yields a lighter, crispier coating.
  • Allow the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking to retain juiciness.
  • Experiment with spice blends such as Cajun or Italian seasoning for variety.
  • Author: Emma Bloomfield
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-Free option available (use gluten-free breadcrumbs)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4 tenders
  • Calories: 250 kcal Kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 20g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg