Name: Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken tenders; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons milk; 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular); 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon black pepper; Cooking spray

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Short Description

These Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier take on the classic fried favorite. Coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection, they offer crunch and flavor without the need for deep frying—ideal for a family dinner or game-day snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Healthier crunch: Enjoy crispy tenders without the excess oil from frying.
Easy prep & bake: Simple breading stations and oven-ready—no deep fryer needed.
Kid-friendly and customizable: Perfect with any dipping sauce and easily tweaked to taste.
Quick and convenient: Ready in under 30 minutes for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400 °F (200 °C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Set up three breading stations:
- Station 1: Place flour in a shallow bowl.
- Station 2: Whisk together the eggs and milk in a second bowl.
- Station 3: Combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
Dredge each chicken tender in the flour, shaking off any excess.
Dip into the egg wash, ensuring it is fully coated.
Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly on all sides.
Arrange the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray—this helps achieve a golden, crunchy exterior.
Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165 °F/74 °C) and the breading is golden and crispy.
Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

Serves: Approximately 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Bake time: 18–20 minutes
Total time: Around 30 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne or chili powder to breadcrumb mix.
Parmesan boost: Mix in ¼ cup grated Parmesan with breadcrumbs.
Herb upgrade: Stir in 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or fresh chopped parsley.
Gluten-free alternative: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
Coconut crunch: Replace half the breadcrumbs with unsweetened shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Let tenders cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat at 375 °F (190 °C) on a baking sheet for 5–8 minutes, or until warmed through and crispy.
Freezing: Freeze cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen at 375 °F for 12–15 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast strips instead of tenders?

Yes—slice boneless chicken breasts into 1–1½-inch strips and follow the same breading and baking process.

2. How do I keep breading from falling off?

Ensure each tender is well coated at each step and press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken.

3. Is cooking spray really necessary?

Yes—it helps achieve a crisp, golden crust similar to frying. You can also lightly brush with oil.

4. Can I prepare tenders ahead of time?

Absolutely—bread them, then store uncooked tenders in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready.

5. What temperature should the chicken reach?

Use a meat thermometer—internal temperature should be 165 °F (74 °C) at thickest part.

6. Can I bake at a higher temperature for shorter time?

You can bake at 425 °F (220 °C) for about 15 minutes, but check frequently to avoid over-browning.

7. Any suggestions for dipping sauces?

Honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, ketchup, or spicy mayo all pair wonderfully.

8. Can I air-fry these?

Yes—cook in an air fryer at 400 °F for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

9. How do I make them gluten-free?

Use a certified gluten-free all-purpose flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.

10. Can I freeze them after cooking?

Yes—freeze cooled tenders in a single layer. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375 °F for 12–15 minutes until hot and crispy.

Conclusion

Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders offer the perfect balance of health and indulgence—golden, crunchy, and homemade without the mess of frying. Ready in just half an hour, they’re a versatile main dish or snack that everyone will love. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy that irresistible crunch!

Ezabella

Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders