Baked Chicken Tenders are the glorious golden nuggets of joy that take your taste buds on a wild ride. Picture this: juicy chicken, perfectly seasoned and baked to crispy perfection, wafting aromas filling your kitchen, making it feel like a five-star restaurant. It’s the sort of dish that makes you want to strut around in an apron with a spatula in hand, feeling like a culinary genius.
These tenders are not just for kids or weekday dinners; they have the power to elevate any gathering or cozy family night. Memories rush back of my first dinner party where I served these delightfully crunchy bites. The sound of crunching and mmm-ing from friends was music to my ears, and I knew I had struck gold with this recipe.
Why You'll Love This Baked Chicken Tenders
- This incredible Baked Chicken Tenders transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly
I recall the first time I whipped these up for a game night; everyone was practically elbowing each other for the last piece!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
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Panko Breadcrumbs: These give an extra crunch compared to regular breadcrumbs—trust me on this one!
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best; it packs more flavor and melts beautifully.
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Garlic Powder: It’s like a magic dust that elevates flavors without overwhelming.
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Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings for any savory dish; don’t skimp here.
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Eggs: These act as a binding agent so all those delightful breadcrumbs stick well.
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Olive Oil Spray: A light spritz before baking ensures crispiness without excess calories.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray so your tenders don’t become permanent residents of the pan.
Prepare your chicken by cutting it into strips about 1 inch wide. This helps them cook evenly and allows for maximum crunch! Season with salt and pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
In one bowl, whisk together two eggs until they froth slightly—this will be our glue! In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese. The combination should resemble a tasty sandy beach.
Dip each chicken strip first into the egg mixture then coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mix. Make sure every nook and cranny is covered; we want them fully dressed for success!
Place each coated tender onto the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray them with olive oil spray—this little touch makes all the difference in achieving that golden color while keeping things healthy.
Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they’re golden brown and cooked through. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) so no one has to imagine what salmonella tastes like!
Allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving. Trust me; letting them breathe enhances their juiciness! Serve with your favorite dipping sauces—ranch or honey mustard are crowd-pleasers.
Enjoy your Baked Chicken Tenders straight from the oven or at room temperature during family gatherings—the taste will still leave everyone asking for more!
You Must Know About Baked Chicken Tenders
- This showstopping Baked Chicken Tenders delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions
Perfecting the Cooking Process
The best cooking sequence begins with preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, prepare the chicken by coating it in bread crumbs and spices. Once everything is ready, bake the tenders for about 20-25 minutes until golden brown. This method ensures even cooking and crispy edges.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Baked Chicken Tenders by swapping traditional breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes or panko for extra crunch. You can also experiment with spices; try adding garlic powder or smoked paprika for a unique flavor twist. Don’t hesitate to toss in some grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy kick.
Storing & Reheating
To store your Baked Chicken Tenders, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to restore their crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make them soggy.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Baked Chicken Tenders
- This professional-quality Baked Chicken Tenders relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth
- Let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly
Sharing my first attempt at these tenders still brings a smile; my friends devoured them and insisted they were way better than any takeout! Their delighted faces made all the chopping worth it.
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken for Baked Chicken Tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders; however, ensure they are fully thawed before coating them with breadcrumbs to achieve a crispy texture while baking.
What dipping sauces pair well with Baked Chicken Tenders?
Baked Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. Feel free to get creative and whip up your own signature sauce!
How do I ensure my chicken tenders stay moist?
To keep your chicken tenders moist, don’t overbake them! Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) without drying out.
Can I bake these tenders ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake them ahead of time and reheat before serving. Just store them properly to maintain their crispiness when reheated.
Conclusion for Baked Chicken Tenders
Baked Chicken Tenders are not only simple to make but also incredibly delicious! With just a few ingredients and some creativity, you can customize this dish to suit your family’s tastes. Remember the tips on storing and reheating so you can enjoy their crispy goodness even on busy nights! Grab those chicken breasts and let’s get baking!
Baked Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
Description
Baked Chicken Tenders are the ultimate crispy delight that transforms simple ingredients into a mouthwatering dish. Juicy chicken strips are coated in a crunchy panko and Parmesan mixture, then baked to golden perfection. This easy recipe is perfect for family dinners, game nights, or any occasion that calls for a delicious bite. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an unforgettable experience that will leave everyone asking for more.
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 2 large eggs
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet with non-stick spray.
- Cut chicken breasts into strips about 1 inch wide and season with salt and pepper.
- In one bowl, whisk the eggs until frothy. In another bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese.
- Dip each chicken strip into the egg mixture, then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with olive oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Allow to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender (50g)
- Calories: 160
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
