Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490971H15M50S
Total time: PT-490971H15M50S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders (cut into strips); 2 large eggs (beaten); 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor); 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp onion powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; Olive oil spray (for coating)

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I absolutely adore sharing this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe because it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. The way the chicken strips become perfectly golden and crunchy without all the fuss of frying has me coming back for seconds every time. Whether I’m feeding my family or inviting friends over, this recipe never disappoints—and the best part is how straightforward it is, making it a go-to when I want something delicious fast.

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

I can’t tell you how many times this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe has saved the day when I was craving something crispy, comforting, and full of flavor but didn’t want to turn on the fryer. The combination of panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and a medley of spices comes together to create a taste profile that’s just packed with savory, garlicky goodness and an irresistible crunchy bite. The paprika adds a subtle smoky warmth that makes every mouthful so satisfying.

What I love most is how easy this recipe is to prepare. Seriously, it’s as simple as setting up two bowls, dipping the chicken strips, and popping them in the oven. No messy frying oil to deal with, and cleanup is a breeze—especially if you use parchment paper or a silicone mat. Plus, these tenders are perfect for so many occasions: a casual weeknight dinner, a game day snack, or even a crowd-pleaser at parties. It stands out because it manages to be both indulgent and healthier at the same time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows five pieces of golden brown crispy fried chicken tenders arranged on a wire rack above a white marbled surface. The chicken tenders have a crunchy, textured coating with hints of green herbs. On the left side, there is a small white bowl filled with creamy light yellow dipping sauce. The colors contrast nicely with the crisp chicken and smooth sauce, creating a warm and inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients that each play an important role. Everything from the texture of the panko to the sharpness of Parmesan and the aromatic spices comes together harmoniously to make those chicken tenders irresistibly crispy and flavorful.

1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders: The star of the dish; cutting breasts into strips works great if tenders aren’t available.
2 large eggs (beaten): Acts as the perfect glue to help the breadcrumbs stick.
1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides that signature crunch that sets this apart from regular breadcrumbs.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional): Adds a rich, nutty layer of flavor that makes the coating irresistible.
1 tsp garlic powder: Brings out a warm, aromatic depth in every bite.
1 tsp paprika: Offers a subtle smoky sweetness that complements the chicken beautifully.
1/2 tsp onion powder: Adds a touch of savory sharpness to balance the coating.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors nicely.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Just enough to give a gentle kick.
Olive oil spray: Essential for helping the tenders crisp up evenly in the oven.

Directions

Step 1: If you’re using chicken breasts, slice them into 1-inch wide strips to mimic tender shapes. If you have chicken tenders ready, you can skip this step—easy!

Step 2: Set up your breading stations: beat the eggs in one bowl until smooth. In another bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if you’re using it), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.

Step 3: Season your chicken strips lightly with salt and pepper before breading. This little extra seasoning step really makes a difference.

Step 4: Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then coat it thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture. For an extra-thick, crunchy coating, repeat this dipping and coating process once more—double coating is my favorite trick.

Step 5: Prepare your baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. If you have a wire rack, place it on the baking sheet to elevate the chicken so air can circulate and help crisp the tenders evenly.

Step 6: Arrange your breaded chicken strips on the baking sheet or wire rack, spacing them so they aren’t touching; this ensures they cook evenly and stay crispy.

Step 7: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Before baking, lightly spray the tenders with olive oil spray. This final step helps them get that perfect golden crunch.

Step 8: Bake the chicken tenders for 20 to 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through. They should turn a beautiful golden brown and crisp up nicely. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be fully cooked and safe to eat.

Step 9: After baking, let the tenders rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices, then serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or creamy ranch.

Servings and Timing

This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe yields about 4 hearty servings, making it great for a family dinner or feeding a small group. The prep time is around 10 minutes, largely because slicing and breading go quickly. Baking time clocks in at 20 to 25 minutes. All told, you’re looking at roughly 30 to 35 minutes from start to finish, including a brief resting period after the chicken comes out of the oven.

How to Serve This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

The image shows a close-up of five golden brown crispy fried strips arranged on a white plate. Each strip has a crunchy, crumb-coated texture with small irregular breading pieces and a slightly rough surface. The top layer of the strips features a bright golden color with some darker toasted spots, sprinkled lightly with coarse white salt and small green herb flakes. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and the focus is on the textured coating of the strips, making them look crunchy and savory. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

When it comes to serving these crispy delights, I always like to pair them with something fresh and vibrant to cut through the crunchy richness. A crisp side salad with tangy vinaigrette or crunchy coleslaw works beautifully. For a heartier meal, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even fries are fantastic companions.

Presentation is key to making this dish feel special. I like to plate the chicken tenders in a neat row or fan shape, garnished with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color. Offering an array of dipping sauces in small ramekins adds an interactive, fun element to the table that guests always appreciate.

For drinks, you can’t go wrong with a cold craft beer or a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc that complements the garlic and paprika flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling lemonade or iced tea with a hint of lemon elevates the meal perfectly. These tenders are best enjoyed warm or hot, straight from the oven, but I’ve found they also taste great at room temperature for casual gatherings.

Variations

If you want to shake things up, I’ve experimented with several delicious variations of this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe. For example, swapping panko for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes makes the recipe accessible while maintaining that unbeatable crunch. For a vegan twist, using chickpea or tofu strips with a flax egg (ground flaxseed mixed with water) and vegan Parmesan works surprisingly well.

Playing around with spices is one of my favorite ways to customize this recipe. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder turns up the heat, while swapping paprika for smoked paprika intensifies the smoky notes. Sometimes I even add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mix for a fresh Mediterranean flair.

Although baking is my preferred method for its ease and health benefits, I’ve also tried air-frying these tenders, which produces a similarly crisp texture in less time. For an indulgent twist, a quick shallow fry in a light oil bath also works but requires extra attention to oil temperature and draining.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

When I have leftovers, I always store the chicken tenders in an airtight container to keep them from drying out. They stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I recommend placing a paper towel at the bottom of the container to absorb any excess moisture and help maintain the crispy texture as much as possible.

Freezing

This Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe freezes quite well if you want to save some for later. After baking and cooling completely, I arrange the tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze them until firm. Then I transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep best for up to 2 months and reheat beautifully, making them perfect for meal prep or quick snacks.

Reheating

To get the best texture when reheating, I always use the oven or an air fryer instead of a microwave. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the tenders for about 8 to 10 minutes until they’re heated through and crunchy again. This method restores some of the original crispness, whereas microwaving often leads to soggy coatings that nobody wants.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts or tenders?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs can work well for this recipe. Just be sure to cut them into similar-sized strips for even cooking and adjust your bake time if needed to ensure they reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Is it necessary to use Parmesan cheese in the breadcrumb mix?

Parmesan is optional but highly recommended. It adds an extra savory dimension and helps the coating brown beautifully. If you don’t have it on hand or prefer to omit dairy, just increase the seasoning slightly or add a bit of nutritional yeast for a similar effect.

Can I prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken, then keep it covered in the fridge for up to a day before baking. This is perfect for meal prepping or busy evenings when you want to minimize steps. Just add the olive oil spray right before baking for best crispiness.

What dipping sauces go best with this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe?

There are so many delicious options! Honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or even a zesty garlic aioli all pair wonderfully. I love mixing up sauces for a fun tasting experience.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Simply swap the panko breadcrumbs for a gluten-free variety or crushed gluten-free cereal. Make sure all your spices and other ingredients are gluten-free certified to avoid any hidden gluten.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe a try because it has such a special place in my heart (and appetite!). It’s a winning combination of simplicity, crunch, and flavor that warms up any meal or gathering. Trust me, once you make these tenders, they’ll be a staple in your kitchen just like they are in mine. Enjoy every crispy bite!