If you’re craving a snack or meal that hits all the right notes—crispy, golden, flavorful, and downright addictive—you absolutely need to try this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s that perfect combination of crunchy panko and Parmesan coating that seals in juicy, tender chicken goodness, all made healthier by baking rather than frying. Whether you’re feeding kids or entertaining friends, these tenders are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser that feels homemade and satisfying every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe lies in a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each bring something special to the table—from texture to bold flavor. These ingredients are easy to find and come together quickly, making the whole process a breeze.
- Chicken tenders or chicken breast strips: The star of the dish, providing juicy and tender meat that’s perfect for breading.
- Panko breadcrumbs: These crunchy Japanese-style crumbs create that irresistible crispy coating.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty depth that amps up the flavor.
- Smoked paprika: Brings warmth and a subtle smokiness for complexity.
- Garlic powder: Infuses savory notes that complement the chicken beautifully.
- Onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and aromatic zing.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance every bite.
- All-purpose flour: Helps the egg wash stick and creates the perfect base layer.
- Large eggs: Bind the crispy coating to the chicken and lock in moisture.
- Olive oil spray: A light spritz ensures the crust browns beautifully without extra grease.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spraying the parchment lightly with olive oil helps the tenders crisp up nicely and prevents any sticking. Getting the oven ready upfront means your tenders bake perfectly crispy on the first go.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
This part is fun and straightforward. You’ll need three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the breadcrumb mixture. Combining panko, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in the breadcrumb dish ensures every bite bursts with flavor and crunch.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken Strips
Pat your chicken tenders dry to avoid soggy coating. Then, dredge each strip in flour, dip it into the eggs, and firmly press it into the breadcrumb blend. This triple coating technique guarantees a crispy texture and that delicious golden color we love.
Step 4: Arrange and Olive Oil Spray
Lay the breaded tenders evenly on your oiled parchment-lined baking sheet. A gentle spray of olive oil over the top forms that final crisp layer during baking, giving them that perfect bite without dripping in grease.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden and Cooked Through
Bake the tenders for 18 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides. When the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C), they’re juicy on the inside and beautifully crunchy outside—ready to enjoy.
Step 6: Serve with Dipping Sauces
These tenders shine when paired with your favorite dips. Honey mustard, ranch, and BBQ sauce are classic choices that complement the crispy coating and savory chicken, elevating this simple dish to something special.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or chives sprinkled on top add a pop of color and a hint of freshness. A light squeeze of lemon juice can brighten up the flavors beautifully, balancing the rich, cheesy crust.
Side Dishes
Pair your tenders with crispy baked fries, a fresh garden salad, or even roasted vegetables for a balanced meal. Creamy coleslaw or steamed broccoli also complement the crunchy texture and make the dish feel complete.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe into playful sliders by serving them on mini buns with pickles and sauce, or chop the tenders for a crunchy chicken salad. For a fun twist, serve alongside colorful dipping sauces in small bowls for a party platter that everyone can dig into.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy grab-and-go snack or quick meal the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked breaded tenders on a tray first, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time for perfectly crisp results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back that crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it tends to soften the coating, missing out on that satisfying crunch.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut chicken breasts into strips about the same size as tenders so they cook evenly and still get that perfect crispy crust.
Is it possible to make these gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. The texture and flavor will still be fantastic.
Why bake instead of frying the chicken tenders?
Baking reduces the oil and calories while still delivering a crispy, golden crust, making it a healthier option that doesn’t sacrifice taste or texture.
Can I prepare the tenders ahead of time?
You can bread the chicken strips and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking, which makes dinnertime super convenient without losing any of the crispness.
What dipping sauces go well with this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, spicy mayo, or even a tangy buffalo sauce all complement the flavors wonderfully and add extra zest to your meal.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe enough—it’s the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy, and flavorful that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, these tenders bring comfort and joy every time you bake them. Give it a go and watch everyone disappear these tender bites with big smiles!
Print
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders offers a healthier alternative to fried tenders by baking them to golden perfection with a crunchy panko and Parmesan crust. The seasoned breadcrumb coating, combined with smoked paprika, garlic, and onion powders, delivers a flavorful and crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy inside. Perfect as a family-friendly main dish or appetizer, these tenders are quick to prepare and oven-baked for a guilt-free indulgence.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or chicken breast, cut into strips
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Other
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment paper with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote browning.
- Prepare Breading Station: Set up three shallow dishes — one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. This organized setup ensures an efficient breading process.
- Coat the Chicken: Pat the chicken strips dry using paper towels to help the coating adhere better. Dredge each strip first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to encourage crispiness during baking.
- Bake the Tenders: Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning. Bake until the exterior is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and serve immediately. Pair with preferred dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ for added flavor.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, consider broiling the tenders for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- Using chicken breast cut into strips is an alternative if chicken tenders are unavailable.
- Adjust seasoning in the breadcrumb mixture according to taste preferences; add cayenne for some heat if desired.
- Make sure to pat the chicken dry well to prevent soggy breading.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
