Crispy, Juicy Perfection Awaits!
If you’re looking for the perfect homemade baked chicken tenders that are not only crispy and delicious but super easy to make, you’ve found the right recipe! These tenders are perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a meal when paired with your favorite dipping sauce. They’re healthier than fried tenders but still packed with flavor! You can impress your family or serve them at your next gathering. Don’t forget, these tenders can be customized with your choice of seasonings and they are sure to please everyone! Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or simply a cozy weekend in.
⏱️ Time Breakdown
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
📝 Ingredients List
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
✨ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
This recipe doesn’t require fancy gadgets, just a few reliable kitchen basics to keep everything simple and stress-free.
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Mixing bowls
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Baking dish
Step-by-Step Beginner-Friendly Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). 🔥
- In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dip each chicken tender into the eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t touch.
- Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the tenders for added crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy! 🍽️
💡 Pro Tips Section
- Storage: Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Substitutions: Feel free to swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or gluten-free alternatives for a different twist.
- Meal prep: These tenders can be baked in batches and reheated for a quick meal throughout the week.
- Serving ideas: Serve with a side salad, dipping sauces, or alongside roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
📊 Nutrition Table
| Serving Size | Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sugar |
|————–|———|———|——-|—–|——-|——-|
| 1 plate | 420 | 18g | 35g | 22g | 4g | 6g |
Disclaimer: Nutrition facts are estimated using online tools and may vary based on your ingredients and preparation. Please consult a nutritionist for precise dietary advice.
FAQs
1. Can I freeze baked chicken tenders?
Yes! You can freeze them after baking. Simply let them cool, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be reheated from frozen.
2. How do I make them spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture to give your chicken tenders a kick!
3. What dipping sauces pair well with these tenders?
Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo.
4. Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Absolutely! Just cut chicken breast into strips and follow the same coating process for delicious results.
Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Crispy, juicy chicken tenders that are easy to make and healthier than fried, perfect for snacks or meals.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- In a separate bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dip each chicken tender into the eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, making sure they don’t touch.
- Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil over the tenders for added crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
- Let them cool slightly before serving with your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy!
Notes
Store leftover tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Feel free to swap out breadcrumbs or use chicken breast instead of tenders for a twist.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
