Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

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If you are craving a crispy, flavorful meal that’s both comforting and simple to make, this Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Tender strips of juicy chicken are coated in a perfect blend of seasoned breadcrumbs and spices, then baked to golden brown perfection without the extra oil mess or calories from frying. It’s a delicious crowd-pleaser that feels indulgent but is surprisingly light and healthy, making it an ideal dinner or snack that the whole family will adore.

Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe proves that you don’t need anything fancy to create something remarkable. Each component works in harmony to build layers of flavor, crispiness, and juiciness that make every bite irresistible.

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into 1 to 1.5-inch wide strips for perfect tender bites.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The first coating that helps the egg mixture stick to the chicken.
• 2 large eggs: Beaten to act as a sticky binder, creating a great base for the breadcrumbs.
• 1 cup seasoned breadcrumbs: Choose store-bought or homemade with herbs and spices for extra flavor.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a savory depth that makes the tenders more complex and satisfying.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the overall taste with a subtle sweetness and warmth.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Brings smokiness and a beautiful golden color to the crust.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a hint of heat to balance the seasoning.
• Cooking spray: To lightly coat the chicken tenders before baking for extra crispness without grease.

How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by heating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). This temperature is perfect for achieving a crispy exterior while ensuring the chicken inside stays juicy and tender. Preheating ensures even cooking from the moment the tenders hit the rack.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly spray it with cooking spray. This simple step prevents the chicken tenders from sticking and helps keep clean up quick and easy. A little extra care here goes a long way.

Step 3: Set Up Your Breading Station

Create an assembly line with three shallow bowls: one with seasoned flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with the seasoned breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This setup makes the coating process smooth and efficient.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken Strips

Dredge each chicken strip first in the flour, making sure it’s thoroughly coated. Then dip it in the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Finally, coat it generously with the breadcrumb mixture. This triple-step coating locks in juices and guarantees a satisfyingly crunchy crust.

Step 5: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place each coated chicken tender on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between pieces. Crowding can cause steaming and soften the crust, so give them room to breathe and crisp up beautifully.

Step 6: Add a Light Spray of Oil

Lightly spritz the tops of the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle a bit of olive oil over them. This technique gives the crust that golden, crisp finish that we all love without the need for deep frying.

Step 7: Bake and Flip

Bake the chicken tenders for 15 to 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. This ensures they brown evenly on both sides. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat chicken.

Step 8: Let Them Rest

After removing the tenders from the oven, allow them to rest a few minutes. This brief pause lets the juices redistribute inside, keeping each bite moist and flavorful rather than dry.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or chopped chives sprinkled on top add a pop of color and brighten the flavor profile of your baked chicken tenders. A squeeze of lemon juice can also elevate the dish by adding a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness.

Side Dishes

Pair your baked chicken tenders with crispy oven-baked fries, a light garden salad, or roasted vegetables to keep the meal balanced yet exciting. For a creamy element, a side of coleslaw or a cooling cucumber yogurt sauce complements the crunch perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your tenders on skewers as finger food at parties. Another idea is to toss them in your favorite wing sauce right after baking to switch things up. Or roll them into wraps with fresh veggies and a zesty dressing for a delicious handheld lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover baked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows you to easily reheat them for a quick meal or snack without sacrificing too much texture or flavor.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe later, flash freeze the coated but uncooked tenders on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the tenders in a preheated 375°F oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the coating soggy, dulling the delicious crunch that makes this recipe so special.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts for this Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and will add a slightly richer flavor, but keep in mind the cooking time might vary slightly as thighs tend to be denser.

What type of breadcrumbs works best?

Seasoned breadcrumbs work wonderfully right out of the box, but if you have time, homemade breadcrumbs mixed with your favorite herbs and spices offer a fresher, more personalized taste.

Is it necessary to flip the tenders while baking?

Flipping halfway helps ensure each side crisps up evenly. If you don’t flip, the bottom can become soggy from sitting on the baking sheet, so flipping is highly recommended.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap the all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives, and be sure to check that any seasonings used do not contain gluten.

What dipping sauces go well with these tenders?

Classic options like honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo are all fantastic choices that complement the crispy exterior and juicy interior beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is a shining example of how simple ingredients and a little love in the kitchen can create something truly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, I guarantee these tenders will quickly become a beloved staple. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the crispy, tender magic that baking can bring to your dinner table.

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