Easy Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe for Dinner

Weeknight dinners demand quick, crowd-pleasing recipes that satisfy every palate, and these crispy homemade baked chicken tenders hit the spot perfectly.

Packed with irresistible flavor and a golden-brown crunch, this dish brings restaurant-style comfort right to your kitchen.

The secret lies in a perfectly seasoned coating that transforms ordinary chicken into a crispy delight.

Each tender offers a satisfying crunch that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds.

Lean protein meets delectable seasoning in this simple yet impressive meal that comes together in under thirty minutes.

These chicken tenders are healthier than their deep-fried counterparts, proving that nutritious can also mean delicious.

Fire up your oven and get ready to become the dinner hero your family will cheer for.

What Makes These Chicken Tenders So Crispy and Satisfying

• Customize and Personalize: Experiment with different spices, breadcrumb varieties, and dipping sauces to match your taste preferences and make each batch unique.
• Family-Friendly Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults will love these crispy, golden chicken tenders that provide a healthier alternative to deep-fried versions while maintaining incredible flavor and texture.
• Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, game day snacks, packed lunches, or casual gatherings, these chicken tenders adapt to any mealtime scenario.

Ingredients for Homemade Baked Chicken Strips

• Chicken Breasts or Chicken Tenders: Lean and tender meat perfect for crispy baking.

• Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese: Crunchy coating that adds golden texture and rich flavor.
• Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Paprika, Salt, Black Pepper: Spice blend for delicious seasoning.

• Eggs: Helps breading stick perfectly to chicken.
• Olive Oil Spray: Creates extra crispy exterior.

How to Make Crispy Chicken Tenders in the Oven

Step 1: Slice and Prepare Chicken

Start by transforming your chicken into perfect tender strips.

If you’re working with chicken breasts, slice them into neat 1-inch wide strips.

Already have chicken tenders?

You’re ready to roll!

Step 2: Create Flavor-Packed Coating Stations

• Beaten eggs in one bowl
• Breadcrumb mixture in another bowl with
• Breadcrumbs
• Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper

Step 3: Season the Protein

Gently sprinkle salt and pepper over each chicken strip, giving them a flavor boost.

Step 4: Dunk and Coat Technique

Dip each chicken strip into the egg, letting excess drip away.

Roll the eggy strip through the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to create a perfect crunchy armor.

Want extra crunch?

Double-coat by repeating the egg and breadcrumb dance.

Step 5: Prepare Baking Surface

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat.

Pro tip: Use a wire rack for maximum crispiness and even cooking.

Step 6: Arrange for Perfect Baking

Place breaded tenders on the prepared surface, leaving space between each piece.

No crowding allowed!

Step 7: Bake to Golden Perfection

Crank your oven to 400°F.

Lightly mist tenders with olive oil spray for extra crunch.

Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping midway.

Look for that gorgeous golden-brown color.

Step 8: Temperature Check and Serve

Confirm internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F for safe eating.

Let tenders rest 2-3 minutes.

Serve alongside your favorite dipping sauces like tangy honey mustard or classic ranch.

Pro Tips for Crunchy, Golden Tenders

• Cut chicken breasts into even 1-inch strips to ensure uniform cooking and consistent crispiness for every tender.
• Repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process to create an extra thick, crispy exterior that delivers satisfying texture.
• Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow hot air circulation, preventing soggy bottoms and promoting all-around golden browning.
• Lightly mist chicken tenders with olive oil spray before baking to enhance browning and create a more appetizing color and crisp coating.
• Always verify internal chicken temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer to guarantee safe and perfectly cooked tenders every time.

How to Store and Reheat Baked Chicken Strips

• Transfer leftover chicken tenders to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure they cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.
• Restore crispiness by preheating oven to 350°F. Arrange tenders on a baking sheet and heat for 10-12 minutes, turning once halfway through to ensure even warming.
• While less ideal for maintaining crunchiness, quickly reheat tenders on a microwave-safe plate for 30-45 seconds. Cover with a paper towel to prevent drying out.
• Wrap individual tenders in plastic wrap, place in a freezer-safe bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Sides That Pair Well With Chicken Tenders

• Perfectly Matched Sauces: Zesty ranch dressing or tangy honey mustard complement the crispy chicken tenders, enhancing their golden-brown crunch and savory flavor profile.
• Ideal Wine Pairing: Select a crisp, light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, which cuts through the chicken's richness with refreshing acidity.
• Complementary Side Dishes: Serve alongside creamy coleslaw or fresh garden salad to balance the tenders' crunchy texture and provide a cool, fresh contrast.
• Family-Friendly Beverage Option: Pair with ice-cold lemonade or sparkling apple juice for a kid-friendly meal that everyone will love and enjoy together.

Tasty Chicken Tender Twist Ideas

• Gluten-Free Chicken Tenders: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains crispy texture.
• Keto-Friendly Breading: Swap breadcrumbs with crushed pork rinds or ground almonds to create a low-carb coating that delivers maximum crunch without added carbohydrates.
• Spicy Cajun Chicken Tenders: Add cayenne pepper and additional paprika to the breading mixture, creating a zesty version with a bold kick of heat and southern-style flavor.
• Herb-Infused Chicken Tenders: Mix dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, and oregano into the breadcrumb coating for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired version with complex herbal notes.

FAQs

• How do I make my chicken tenders extra crispy?

The key is using breadcrumbs, double coating the chicken, and lightly spraying with olive oil before baking. This creates a crunchy exterior that stays crisp even after cooling.

• Can I use different types of breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! Panko breadcrumbs work great for extra crunchiness, while regular breadcrumbs or gluten-free options are also perfect. Each type will give a slightly different texture to your chicken tenders.

• Is it necessary to use a wire rack when baking?

While not mandatory, a wire rack helps air circulate around the chicken, preventing the bottom from getting soggy. If you don’t have one, simply flip the tenders halfway through baking to ensure even crispiness.

• How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The chicken should also look golden brown and have a crispy exterior when properly cooked.

Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.9 from 29 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy homemade baked chicken tenders deliver golden-brown perfection with minimal effort and maximum flavor. Seasoned breadcrumbs and a smart oven technique ensure juicy, crunchy results that will delight your dinner crowd.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (454 grams) chicken breasts or chicken tenders
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Ingredients:

• Olive oil spray

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Instructions

1. Transform chicken breasts into uniform strips, ensuring consistent thickness for even cooking. If using pre-cut chicken tenders, skip slicing.
2. Create two separate shallow preparation bowls: one for whisked eggs and another for seasoned breadcrumb mixture.
3. Blend breadcrumbs with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper to develop a complex flavor profile.
4. Season chicken strips delicately with salt and pepper, enhancing natural meat flavors.
5. Immerse each chicken strip into beaten eggs, allowing excess liquid to drip away smoothly.
6. Carefully roll egg-coated strips through breadcrumb mixture, applying gentle pressure to ensure complete, even coating.
7. For maximum crunchiness, execute a double-dredging technique by repeating egg and breadcrumb process.
8. Prepare baking surface with parchment paper or silicone mat to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup.
9. Position wire cooling rack atop baking sheet to promote optimal air circulation and achieve crispy exterior.
10. Arrange breaded chicken tenders with sufficient spacing, preventing moisture accumulation and promoting uniform browning.
11. Preheat oven to 400°F, creating ideal environment for golden, crisp exterior.
12. Mist chicken tenders lightly with olive oil spray to enhance crispiness and color.
13. Bake for 20-25 minutes, rotating midway to guarantee consistent browning and thorough cooking.
14. Verify internal temperature reaches 165°F using meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
15. Allow tenders to rest briefly after removing from oven, permitting juices to redistribute.
16. Present warm with complementary dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch for enhanced enjoyment.

Notes

• Coating Hack: Double-dipping the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs creates an ultra-crispy exterior that stays crunchy even after cooling down.
• Temperature Precision: Use a meat thermometer to guarantee chicken reaches 165°F without overcooking, ensuring juicy and safe-to-eat tenders.
• Gluten-Free Modification: Swap traditional breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version that maintains crispy texture.
• Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare breaded tenders ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, allowing flavors to develop and saving preparation time.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 26 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Cholesterol: 140 mg