Description
These crispy oven chicken tenders are a perfect balance of crunchy and juicy, baked to golden perfection. They offer a healthier alternative to fried tenders while maintaining that beloved crispiness. Easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
Breading
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup flour
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s at the optimal temperature for baking crispy tenders.
- Prepare baking sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make for easier cleanup.
- Set up breading station: Arrange three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to evenly coat the chicken.
- Coat chicken strips: Dip each chicken strip first into the flour, then coated with egg, and finally thoroughly covered with the seasoned breadcrumb mixture for a crispy crust.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to promote even cooking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken tenders are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are cooked through and crispy.
- Serve: Serve hot immediately with your favorite dipping sauce such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce for maximum enjoyment.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray before baking.
- Chicken tenders can be marinated in buttermilk for 30 minutes beforehand to tenderize the meat.
- Use panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
- Adjust seasoning in the breadcrumb mix to taste; adding cayenne pepper offers a spicy kick.
- Ensure chicken strips are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
