A plate of crispy baked chicken tenders reminds me of family gatherings, where laughter mingled with the aroma of golden-brown goodness wafting from the kitchen. This recipe is a delightful solution for busy weeknights or a fun weekend treat. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s not only healthier than fried options but also packed with flavor. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or impressing guests, these tenders are sure to be a hit. Let’s dive into the secret crunch that makes them irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
These crispy baked chicken tenders are a game-changer for any home cook. They come together in just 30 minutes, making them perfect for those hectic evenings. The best part? You get all the crunch without the guilt of frying. Each bite is tender and flavorful, satisfying even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with your favorite dipping sauces, making every meal a delightful experience!
Ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating these mouthwatering crispy baked chicken tenders. Here’s what you’ll need:
Chicken tenderloins: These are the stars of the dish, offering a tender and juicy bite. You can also use chicken breasts cut into strips for a different texture.
All-purpose flour: This helps create a base coating that sticks to the chicken, ensuring the breadcrumbs adhere well.
Large eggs: Beaten eggs act as a binding agent, helping the breadcrumbs cling to the chicken for that perfect crunch.
Breadcrumbs: I recommend panko for an extra crispy finish, but regular breadcrumbs work too. They add that delightful crunch we all love.
Garlic powder: A sprinkle of this adds a savory depth of flavor that elevates the dish.
Onion powder: This complements the garlic and enhances the overall taste profile.
Paprika: Not only does it add a beautiful color, but it also brings a subtle smokiness to the tenders.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning, these two ingredients bring out the natural flavors of the chicken.
Cooking spray or olive oil: A light spray or drizzle helps achieve that golden-brown finish while keeping the dish healthier.
For those looking to add a twist, consider mixing in some grated Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs for an extra layer of flavor. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
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How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Creating these crispy baked chicken tenders is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This temperature is key for achieving that perfect crunch. While the oven warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This not only prevents sticking but also makes cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Set Up Your Breading Station
Next, it’s time to create your breading station. Grab three shallow bowls. In the first bowl, add the flour. In the second, beat the eggs until they’re smooth. In the third bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This setup keeps everything organized and makes the coating process a cinch!
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Now, let’s get to the fun part—coating the chicken! Take a chicken tenderloin and dip it into the flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dunk it into the beaten eggs, ensuring it’s fully coated. Finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to make sure it sticks. This layering is what gives the tenders that irresistible crunch!
Step 4: Arrange and Spray
Once all your chicken tenders are coated, arrange them on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they’re spaced out to allow for even cooking. For that golden finish, lightly spray or drizzle them with cooking spray or olive oil. This little step makes a big difference in achieving that crispy exterior.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
It’s time to bake! Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and let the tenders cook for 15-20 minutes. Flip them halfway through to ensure they’re evenly cooked and crispy all around. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. The aroma will be simply irresistible!
Tips for Success
Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch that elevates your tenders.
Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; give each tender space to crisp up.
For added flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk for a few hours before coating.
Experiment with spices in the breadcrumb mixture to customize the flavor.
Serve immediately for the best texture; they’re best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!
Equipment Needed
Baking sheet: A standard baking sheet works well, but a wire rack can help with airflow for extra crispiness.
Parchment paper: This makes cleanup easy; aluminum foil is a good alternative.
Three shallow bowls: Any shallow dishes will do for the breading station.
Whisk: Use a fork if you don’t have a whisk for beating the eggs.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the breadcrumb mixture for a fiery twist.
Herb-Infused: Mix in dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or Italian seasoning for a fresh flavor boost.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like almond flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Parmesan Crust: Incorporate grated Parmesan cheese into the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy, savory crunch.
Asian-Inspired: Use sesame seeds in the breadcrumb mix and serve with a soy sauce-based dipping sauce for a unique flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Classic Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing for a crowd-pleasing combo.
Fresh Sides: Pair with a crisp salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Fun Presentation: Arrange tenders on a platter with colorful garnishes like parsley or lemon wedges for a pop of color.
FAQs about Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken tenders and coat them in advance. Just cover them and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. This makes weeknight dinners a breeze!
What dipping sauces pair well with crispy baked chicken tenders?
These tenders are incredibly versatile! Try serving them with honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a zesty barbecue sauce. Each dip adds a unique flavor that complements the crunch.
Can I freeze leftover chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze them! Just let the cooked tenders cool completely, then place them in an airtight container. They can be reheated in the oven for a quick meal later.
How do I ensure my chicken tenders stay crispy?
To keep your crispy baked chicken tenders crunchy, avoid stacking them after baking. Serve them immediately, and if you need to store them, place them on a wire rack to maintain airflow.
What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes or crushed crackers can work as great alternatives. They’ll still give you that satisfying crunch!
Final Thoughts
Making crispy baked chicken tenders is more than just a cooking task; it’s an experience filled with joy and satisfaction. The aroma that fills your kitchen as they bake is simply irresistible, evoking memories of family dinners and laughter. Each tender bite offers a delightful crunch, making it hard to resist going back for seconds. Whether you’re serving them for a casual weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, these tenders are sure to impress. I hope this recipe brings as much happiness to your table as it has to mine. Enjoy every crispy, flavorful moment!
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken, featuring a crunchy coating and tender meat.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound chicken tenderloins
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray or olive oil for drizzling
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a shallow bowl, place the flour. In another bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Coat each chicken tenderloin in flour, shaking off the excess. Dip it into the beaten eggs, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray or drizzle with cooking spray or olive oil for added crispiness.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
For extra flavor, try adding grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
You can also substitute the chicken tenderloins with chicken breasts cut into strips for a different texture.
