This recipe creates crispy and flavorful baked chicken tenders, offering a healthier alternative to fried versions without sacrificing taste or texture. The chicken tenders are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked until golden brown and crispy on the outside, while remaining juicy and tender on the inside. Perfect for a family-friendly meal or a satisfying snack, these baked chicken tenders are easy to make and can be served with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips (tenders)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup olive oil (or melted butter)
- Optional: Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Optional: Dipping sauces (honey mustard, ranch, BBQ, etc.)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
- Prepare Coating: In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Prepare Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels.
- Coat Chicken: Drizzle the olive oil (or melted butter) over the chicken tenders in a bowl and toss to coat evenly. Then, dredge each chicken tender in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere to all sides.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the chicken tenders halfway through, until they are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F/74°C).
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish the baked chicken tenders with chopped fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Tips and Notes:
- Chicken Preparation: Cutting the chicken breasts into uniform strips ensures even cooking.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs provide a lighter and crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a savory and slightly salty flavor to the coating.
- Don’t Overcrowd: Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet to ensure the chicken tenders crisp up properly. Bake in batches if necessary.
- Cooking Time: Baking time may vary depending on the thickness of the chicken tenders. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Flavor Variations: You can customize the breadcrumb mixture with other seasonings like Italian herbs, cayenne pepper (for a little heat), or dried herbs.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the breadcrumb mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.
- Storage: Store any leftover baked chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer for the best crispiness.
Enjoy these delicious and healthier crispy baked chicken tenders!