Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
There’s something undeniably comforting and satisfying about a plate of homemade chicken tenders. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these baked delights are perfect for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or simply as a delicious snack that everyone will rave about. This recipe brings the classic flavor of beloved chicken tenders into your kitchen without the guilt of frying, making them a healthier option that retains all the yummy qualities you crave.
Readers will love these chicken tenders for their simplicity and versatility. Whether served alongside a crisp salad, dipped in tangy barbecue sauce, or paired with a creamy ranch dressing, these tenders have a way of elevating any meal. Plus, they’re incredibly easy to make, meaning you can enjoy a delightful homemade dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Cooking spray or oil for baking
The ingredients are prepped and ready for assembly.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station: place the flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another bowl, and mix the breadcrumbs with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika in a third bowl.
- Dip each chicken strip in the flour, ensuring it’s fully coated, then in the beaten eggs, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture for a crunchy exterior.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle a little oil over them to achieve extra crispiness during baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve hot, paired with your favorite dipping sauce for a delicious finish.
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient Substitutions: You can easily swap the chicken breast for turkey strips or even use tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Optional Variations: Add grated parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor or spice it up with cayenne pepper for a kick!
- Storage/Reheating Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to regain their crispiness.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty level: Easy
