Golden Baked Chicken Tenders: Crispy Perfection at Home

Golden Baked Chicken Tenders: Crispy Perfection at Home 🍗✨🥢

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a delicious, crispy, and healthy snack or main course, these baked chicken tenders are perfect. They offer all the satisfying crunch of fried chicken tenders but are made in the oven for a healthier twist. This recipe guarantees crispy chicken tenders that are tender on the inside and golden on the outside, making them an ideal meal for family dinners, game days, or quick snacks. Discover how to make homemade chicken tenders that rival restaurant quality with simple ingredients and easy steps.

2. Ingredients for Perfect Baked Chicken Tenders

• 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup panko breadcrumb
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Crispy Chicken Tenders

Preparation of Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and lightly spray with cooking spray for easy cleanup.

Coat the Chicken Strips

Place the flour in a shallow dish. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third dish, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Dredge the Chicken

Dip each chicken strip into the flour, coating thoroughly, then into the beaten eggs, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Ensure each piece is evenly coated for maximum crispiness.

Baking the Chicken Tenders

Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil or cooking spray to promote golden crust. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip halfway for even crispiness.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Homemade Chicken Tenders

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until crispy again. Avoid microwave reheating to preserve the crunchiness.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Crispy Chicken Tenders

• Pair with a fresh honey pepper pasta or a crisp garden salad.
• Offer with various dips like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce.
• Serve with sides like roasted vegetables or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

6. Tips to Achieve Crispy and Juicy Homemade Chicken Tenders

• Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular bread crumbs for extra crunch.
• Ensure the oven is preheated for even cooking.
• Spray the tenders with cooking spray before baking for a golden crust.
• Do not overcrowd the baking sheet to allow heat circulation.

7. Frequently Asked Questions About Baked Chicken Tenders

Can I make these with chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can be used, but they may take slightly longer to cook depending on thickness. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

What are some healthy substitutes for breading?

You can substitute crushed almonds, oats, or coconut flakes for panko breadcrumbs to make this dish gluten-free or lower in carbs.

How long does it take to make baked chicken tenders from start to finish?

Preparation takes approximately 10 minutes, baking takes 20-25 minutes, making the total time around 35 minutes for crispy, homemade chicken tenders.

8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Make your baking process easier with durable nonstick pans that ensure your chicken doesn’t stick and cleanup is quick.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Perfect for slicing chicken breasts uniformly in seconds, saving prep time and ensuring even cooking.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 — Not just for baking, use this versatile appliance to achieve extra crispy tenders with less oil.

9. Conclusion

Enjoying baked chicken tenders at home is easier than ever with this simple recipe. These crispy chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to fried versions without sacrificing flavor or crunch. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend snacks, they come out tender, crispy, and full of delicious seasoning. Feel free to experiment with different coatings and dips to customize your homemade chicken tenders experience. Discover more tasty recipes [here](https://cookadia.com/tag/easy/) and elevate your dinner game today!

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