Description
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken strips, featuring juicy chicken coated in a flavorful Parmesan and panko breadcrumb crust. Baked to golden perfection in the oven, these tenders are a perfect family-friendly meal served with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
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
Coating
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment with olive oil to prevent sticking and help crisp the tenders.
- Prepare the breading station: Arrange three shallow dishes for breading: place the all-purpose flour in the first dish, beaten eggs in the second, and combine panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper in the third.
- Coat the chicken: Pat your chicken strips dry with paper towels to ensure the coating sticks properly. Then, dredge each strip first in flour, shaking off any excess, dip it into the beaten eggs fully, and press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat evenly.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Lay the breaded chicken strips in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil spray to aid in browning and crispiness.
- Bake the tenders: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 18-20 minutes. Flip the tenders halfway through the cooking time to promote even browning. Ensure they are cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and crispy golden edges.
- Serve immediately: Remove from the oven and serve the crispy baked chicken tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce for a delicious meal.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can double coat the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Use a wire rack on the baking sheet to allow air circulation and further crisp the tenders, if desired.
- Chicken tenders can be substituted with chicken breast strips for the same recipe.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat in the oven to maintain crispness.
- Adjust seasoning to your taste, adding cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
