Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
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.
- 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
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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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).
- 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
