These Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. Coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust and baked to perfection, they’re juicy on the inside with just the right amount of crunch.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These baked chicken tenders are:
- Crispy and flavorful: Thanks to a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb coating.
- Healthier than fried: They’re baked, not fried, making them lower in fat and calories.
- Kid- and adult-approved: A crowd-pleaser for any age group.
- Simple and quick to make: Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping.
Ingredients for the Best Baked Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Chicken tenders or chicken breasts sliced into strips
- Eggs or buttermilk for dredging
- Breadcrumbs (panko works best for extra crispiness)
- Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended for added flavor)
- Flour (for an initial coating)
- Seasonings: Paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use a wire rack: Elevating the tenders ensures even cooking and prevents sogginess.
- Double coat for extra crunch: After the first layer of breadcrumbs, dip the tenders back into the egg and coat with breadcrumbs again.
- Pre-toast the breadcrumbs: Lightly toasting panko in a dry skillet before coating the chicken adds an extra layer of crunch.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Space out the tenders to ensure they bake evenly and crisp up.
Variations to Try
- Spicy baked chicken tenders:
- Add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix for a kick.
- Gluten-free option:
- Use almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Keto-friendly tenders:
- Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or Parmesan cheese.
- Herb-infused coating:
- Add dried herbs like thyme, oregano, or rosemary for an earthy flavor profile.
How to Serve Baked Chicken Tenders
These versatile tenders can shine as:
- A main dish:
- Serve with roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad.
- Appetizers or snacks:
- Pair with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch.
- Kid-friendly meal:
- Add fries or mac and cheese on the side for a kid-approved dinner.
How to Store and Reheat Baked Chicken Tenders
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Lay tenders on a baking sheet and freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: To maintain crispiness, reheat in an oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes.
Recipe FAQs
How do you make baked chicken tenders crispy?
To achieve maximum crispiness, use panko breadcrumbs, a wire rack for baking, and a brief broil at the end.
Can I use chicken breast instead of tenders?
Yes! Simply slice chicken breasts into thin strips for the same results.
Are baked chicken tenders healthier than fried?
Absolutely. Baking uses significantly less oil, making this version lower in calories and fat while still delivering great taste.
Can I make baked chicken tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the breaded tenders and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.
What’s the best dipping sauce for chicken tenders?
Classic options like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce are always a hit. For a twist, try garlic aioli or sriracha mayo.
Baked Chicken Tenders
These Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on the classic comfort food we all know and love. Coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb crust and baked to perfection, they’re juicy on the inside with just the right amount of crunch.
Ingredients
- 500g / 1 lb chicken tenderloins (or chicken breast cut into strips)
- 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
- Oil spray
- 1 egg
- 1 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 ½ tbsp Dijon mustard (or any mustard you like)
- 2 tbsp flour
- ½ tsp salt
- Black pepper to taste
- Oil spray
Instructions
- Prep Breadcrumbs: Preheat your oven to 200°C/390°F. Spread panko on a baking tray, spray with oil, and bake for 3-5 minutes until light golden. Transfer to a bowl.
- Set Up Baking: Place a rack on a baking tray for even cooking (optional).
- Make the Batter: Whisk the egg, mayo, mustard, flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Coat the Chicken: Toss the chicken in the batter until fully coated.
- Bread the Chicken: Using tongs, transfer each piece into the panko bowl. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top, press gently to adhere, and place on the baking tray.
- Bake to Crispy Perfection: Lightly spray with oil, sprinkle with a pinch of salt (optional), and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye out—overbaking can dry out the chicken.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 469Total Fat 17gSaturated Fat 3gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 13gCholesterol 144mgSodium 863mgCarbohydrates 33gFiber 2gSugar 3gProtein 43g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Baked chicken tenders are proof that comfort food can be both delicious and healthy. Whether you’re making a quick dinner for the family or prepping snacks for the week, this recipe has you covered. With crispy coatings, customizable seasonings, and endless serving possibilities, it’s a dish you’ll return to again and again.
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