Description
This Baked Chicken Tenders recipe offers a crispy, flavorful alternative to fried chicken tenders. Coated in a seasoned panko breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, these tenders are a healthier yet equally delicious option ideal for a quick family dinner or snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Breadcrumb Mixture
- 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Chicken & Coating
- 1½ lbs chicken tenders
- Salt and pepper, for seasoning
- 2 eggs
- Cooking spray
To Serve
- Dipping sauce of choice
Instructions
- Preheat and Toast Panko: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly on a parchment-lined large baking sheet. Bake for 2-3 minutes, stir, and bake for an additional 2-3 minutes until golden brown, taking care to avoid burning.
- Mix the Breadcrumb Seasoning: Remove toasted panko from the oven and transfer to a small bowl. Stir in dried parsley, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, onion powder, and garlic powder until well combined. Increase oven temperature to 425°F and place an oven-safe wire rack over the baking sheet.
- Prepare Egg Wash: In a separate medium bowl, lightly beat the eggs until smooth and combined.
- Season Chicken Tenders: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Then press the tender firmly into the seasoned panko mixture to coat thoroughly. Arrange the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet with the wire rack.
- Spray and Bake: Lightly spray the coated tenders with cooking spray to enhance crispiness. Bake at 425°F for 15-20 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Serve: Remove the tenders from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm accompanied by your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- To ensure extra crispy chicken tenders, use a wire rack to allow air circulation during baking.
- Do not skip toasting the panko breadcrumbs; it adds a nuttier flavor and improves crunchiness.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee the chicken is fully cooked.
- You can substitute dried parsley with other dried herbs like oregano or thyme for variation.
- Use cooking spray lightly to avoid sogginess while enhancing crispiness.
