Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Today I’m jumping straight into Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders because I know how much we all love a recipe that delivers crunch without the mess of frying and I can’t wait to show you how simple it can be. I’m starting with this because it’s one of the first recipes I reach for when I want something fast flavorful and family-friendly and it never fails to satisfy everyone at the table.

I’m sharing this version since I’ve always enjoyed how baking can still create a golden crust that tastes just as good as fried and I love that it keeps the kitchen clean while still giving you that irresistible crispiness. And the best part is that these tenders stay juicy inside which makes every bite delicious.

I’m excited to show you the process because I’ve made this recipe so many times and every time I’m reminded how easy it is to prepare and how reliably tasty it turns out. And I know you’ll appreciate that comforting crunch especially when you dip them into your favorite sauce.

I’m guiding you through each step because I want your tenders to come out perfectly every time and I want this recipe to become one of your go-to options for quick dinners snacks or even party platters. And once you try them fresh from the oven you’ll understand why they’re always a hit.

I’m inviting you to enjoy these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with the confidence that they’re easy budget-friendly and endlessly versatile and I know you’ll love how satisfying and simple they are to prepare.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!

• Chicken tenders – They cook quickly and stay juicy inside.
• Eggs – Help the breadcrumbs stick perfectly to the chicken.
• Breadcrumbs – Create the crispy coating that turns golden in the oven.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds savory richness to the crust.
• Garlic powder – Brings warm aromatic flavor.
• Paprika – Adds color and a mild smokiness.
• Salt – Enhances every part of the coating.
• Black pepper – Balances the flavors and adds a gentle kick.
• Olive oil – Helps the coating crisp up beautifully while baking.

Tools You’ll Need

• Mixing bowls – I use them for coating the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs.
• Whisk – Helps me beat the eggs until smooth.
• Baking sheet – Allows the tenders to bake evenly.
• Parchment paper – Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Tongs – Help me flip and handle the chicken without mess.
• Oven – Bakes the tenders to crispy golden perfection.

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture

I start by whisking the eggs in a mixing bowl until smooth and set them aside.

Step 2: Season the Breadcrumbs

In another bowl I combine breadcrumbs Parmesan garlic powder paprika salt and pepper then I mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

I dip each chicken tender into the egg mixture letting the excess drip off then I press it into the breadcrumb mixture making sure it’s fully coated.

Step 4: Arrange on Baking Sheet

I line a baking sheet with parchment paper then I place the coated tenders on top leaving space between each one.

Step 5: Drizzle with Olive Oil

I lightly drizzle or spray olive oil over the tenders so they bake up extra crispy.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

I bake the tenders in a preheated oven until they turn golden crisp on the outside and perfectly juicy inside.

Step 7: Serve Warm

I let them cool slightly then serve them with my favorite dipping sauces.

Tips

If you want even crispier chicken I recommend using panko breadcrumbs because they create a sturdier crunch. Sometimes I add a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat or swap Parmesan for cheddar to change things up. And if you have an air fryer you can make these even faster while keeping the same delicious crispiness.

Ways to Serve

I love serving these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with a trio of dipping sauces like honey mustard barbecue sauce and garlic ranch because each one brings a new flavor to every bite. They pair beautifully with fries salads veggie sticks or even tucked into wraps for a quick satisfying lunch.

Storage Instructions

I store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating I pop them back into the oven or air fryer so they stay crispy instead of soft. You can freeze them too and reheat straight from frozen for an easy snack or dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?

Yes simply slice the chicken breast into strips for perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders.

Can I make them gluten-free?

Absolutely just use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the coating.

Can I prepare them ahead of time?

Yes you can bread the tenders earlier and refrigerate them until baking time.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders soon because they’re crunchy comforting and incredibly easy to make and I’d love to hear how they turn out for you. Save them for weeknights game days or anytime you crave something crispy without the fuss.

Happy Cooking!

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