There’s nothing quite like biting into a crispy, golden chicken tender that’s crunchy on the outside and juicy on the inside. These baked chicken tenders are everything you love about the classic, but without the deep frying. They’re healthier, packed with flavor, and incredibly easy to make! Whether you’re meal prepping, making a quick family dinner, or just craving something crispy and satisfying, this recipe is for you.
I’ve been making these tenders for years, and they’re always a hit! My family loves them with honey mustard or a spicy sriracha mayo, and I love that they’re so much better than fast food versions. Plus, they’re completely customizable—use your favorite seasonings, switch up the breading, or make them gluten-free. Once you try these homemade baked chicken tenders, you’ll never go back to store-bought again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthier Alternative – No deep frying, just crispy perfection from the oven.
Enjoy the crispy texture of classic chicken tenders without the excess oil. Baking them in the oven makes them a lighter, healthier option while still keeping them crunchy and juicy.
- Crispy & Golden – Thanks to a mix of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan. Panko breadcrumbs create an extra crispy coating, while Parmesan adds a delicious savory flavor. The result? Golden, crunchy tenders that taste just as good as fried ones.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and quick prep time. With just a handful of basic ingredients and minimal prep, these tenders come together fast. No deep frying means less mess and hassle, making this a stress-free recipe.
- Kid-Friendly – A family favorite that both kids and adults enjoy. These tenders have a mild, savory flavor that kids love, and they’re fun to dip! Plus, they’re a hit with adults too—perfect for family meals.
- Great for Meal Prep – Can be frozen for easy lunches or dinners.Make a big batch and freeze them for later. They reheat beautifully, so you can have crispy chicken tenders ready anytime for quick lunches or dinners.
Preparation Time & Servings of the Crispy baked chicken tenders
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20-25 minutes
- Total time: 35-40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: ~350
Ingredients of this Crispy baked chicken tenders recipe
- 1 lb chicken breasts or tenders (cut into strips if using whole breasts)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, adds amazing flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray (for crisping)
Step-by-Step Instructions to make this Crispy baked chicken tenders
1. Prepare the Chicken
- If using whole chicken breasts, slice them into even strips to ensure they cook uniformly.
2. Set Up the Breading Stations
- In the first bowl, beat the eggs.
- In the second bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and seasonings.
3. Bread the Chicken
- Lightly season the chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- Dip each piece into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
- Coat the chicken in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- For extra crunch, dip it back into the egg and then the breadcrumbs again for a double coating.
4. Arrange on a Baking Sheet
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet and arrange the chicken strips on it—this helps with even crisping.
5. Bake to Perfection
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil to help it crisp up.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
- Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) before serving.
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauce like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, ranch, or ketchup.
Tips for Extra Crispiness
- Use a wire rack – This allows air circulation around the tenders, making them extra crispy.
- Do not overcrowd the pan – Leaving space between each piece ensures they bake evenly.
- Double coat the chicken – A second dip in the egg and breadcrumbs gives it an ultra-crunchy texture.
- Lightly spray with olive oil – This mimics frying without the excess oil.
Serving Suggestions of this Crispy baked chicken tenders recipe
With a Fresh Side Salad – A simple arugula or Caesar salad pairs perfectly.
For a light and refreshing meal, serve these crispy chicken tenders with a fresh salad. A peppery arugula salad with cherry tomatoes, Parmesan shavings, and a lemon vinaigrette adds brightness to every bite. If you’re craving something classic, a Caesar salad with crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and creamy dressing is the perfect complement to the crispy chicken.
With Roasted Veggies – Serve with roasted sweet potatoes, broccoli, or asparagus.
Pairing these tenders with roasted vegetables makes for a nutrient-packed meal that’s as delicious as it is wholesome. Sweet potatoes roasted with a touch of cinnamon and paprika add a slightly sweet contrast to the savory chicken. For a more vibrant plate, try garlic-roasted broccoli or asparagus, which bring a nice crunch and earthy flavor to balance out the crispy tenders.
In a Sandwich or Wrap – Add them to a whole wheat wrap with lettuce and sauce for a quick meal.
Turn these tenders into a quick and satisfying sandwich or wrap. Stuff them into a whole wheat tortilla with crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch or honey mustard for a flavorful, on-the-go meal. You can also use a soft brioche bun, add some pickles, and top with spicy mayo for a homemade crispy chicken sandwich that rivals your favorite restaurant’s version.
With Rice or Quinoa – For a balanced meal, serve them with a grain and some steamed greens.
For a more filling and nutritious meal, serve these tenders over a bed of fluffy white or brown rice, quinoa, or couscous. Add a side of steamed green beans, sautéed spinach, or roasted Brussels sprouts for extra color and texture. Drizzle everything with a bit of garlic butter or a squeeze of lemon juice to tie it all together.
These serving ideas make this recipe even more versatile, letting you enjoy crispy chicken tenders in a variety of delicious ways!
Storage & Reheating
- In the fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 5 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked breaded tenders on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. When ready to bake, cook directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to the baking time.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes.
- Dairy-Free Version: Skip the Parmesan cheese and use a dairy-free alternative.
- Herb-Infused: Add 1 tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning for an herby twist.
Dipping Sauce Ideas
- Honey Mustard: ¼ cup mustard + 2 tbsp honey + 1 tbsp Greek yogurt.
- Spicy Sriracha Mayo: ¼ cup mayo + 1 tbsp sriracha + 1 tsp lemon juice.
- Garlic Parmesan Dip: ¼ cup Greek yogurt + 1 tbsp grated Parmesan + ½ tsp garlic powder.
- BBQ Ranch: ¼ cup ranch dressing + 2 tbsp BBQ sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs will be juicier but may require a few extra minutes of baking.
2. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. How do I keep the breading from falling off?
Make sure to press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken, and let them rest for 5 minutes before baking.
4. Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?
Yes, but panko gives a crispier texture. Regular breadcrumbs work if that’s what you have on hand.
5. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can bread the chicken and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
Final Thoughts
These baked chicken tenders are the perfect combination of crispy, juicy, and flavorful, all while being a healthier alternative to fried versions. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner, meal prep, or a family gathering, they’re sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, they’re so easy to customize with different seasonings and dips!
Give them a try and let me know how they turn out! I’d love to hear your favorite dipping sauce pairings. If you make these, snap a photo and tag me—I love seeing your delicious creations. Happy cooking! 😊
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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders – Healthy & Easy Recipe
- Total Time: 35-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Halal
Description
These crispy baked chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken, made with panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for the perfect crunch. They’re easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy them with your favorite dipping sauces for a quick and delicious meal!
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breasts or tenders (cut into strips)
- 2 large eggs (beaten)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top.
- Set up breading stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs. In another, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and seasonings.
- Bread the chicken: Dip each piece in the egg, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place tenders on the wire rack and lightly spray with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy. Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
- For extra crunch, double coat the chicken by repeating the egg and breadcrumb steps.
- Air Fryer Method: Cook at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American