Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Introduction

Crispy oven baked chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to fried versions without sacrificing taste and crunch. This simple recipe creates golden, juicy tenders perfect for a quick dinner or snack. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing meal.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Step 2: Prepare your breading stations by placing the flour in the first bowl. In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk. In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
3. Step 3: Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess.
4. Step 4: Dip the floured chicken tender into the egg wash, making sure it is fully coated.
5. Step 5: Press the chicken tender into the breadcrumb mixture, coating it evenly on all sides.
6. Step 6: Arrange the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet and spray the tops lightly with cooking spray to promote crispiness.
7. Step 7: Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden and crispy.
8. Step 8: Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.

Tips & Variations

• For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix gives a subtle spicy kick.
• Try using different seasonings like Italian herbs or smoked paprika for varied flavor.
• Make it gluten-free by substituting flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

Storage

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8-10 minutes to help retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders for this recipe?

Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before breading to ensure a crispy coating.

Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

You can prepare and bread the tenders in advance and keep them refrigerated for a few hours before baking, but baking right before serving will give you the best crispy texture.

Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

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★★★★★

4.7 from 108 reviews

This recipe for Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders is a healthier take on classic fried chicken tenders. Coated in a flavorful breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, these tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or main dish, they pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces.

• Author: Felix
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Chicken

• 1 lb chicken tenders

Breading

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Other

• Cooking spray

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking and help with even cooking.
2. Prepare Breading Stations: Set up three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and milk, and one with a mixture of breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create the seasoning for the coating.
3. Bread the Chicken: Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour, shaking off any excess, then dip it fully in the egg wash to help the breadcrumbs adhere. Finally, press the chicken tenders firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly for maximum crispiness.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to promote a golden and crispy crust during baking.
5. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, turning the tenders once halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The chicken is cooked when the coating is golden, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve: Serve the crispy chicken tenders immediately while hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce for a delicious complement.

Notes

• For extra crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Make sure to turn the tenders halfway through baking for an even golden color and crispness.
• Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Try different seasoning blends in the breadcrumb mixture to customize the flavor.
• Leftover tenders can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to maintain crispiness.

Keywords: Crispy, Oven Baked, Chicken Tenders, Chicken, Easy Recipe, Healthy Chicken, Healthy Dinner, Kid Friendly