Crispy Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders Recipe for Family Dinner

Crispy golden breaded chicken tenders deliver pure comfort on your dinner plate tonight.

Crunchy exterior and juicy meat create a magical combination that makes everyone smile.

Weeknight dinners just got a serious upgrade with this simple recipe.

Tender strips of chicken coated in perfectly seasoned breadcrumbs promise maximum flavor in every single bite.

No complicated techniques or fancy ingredients required here – just straightforward deliciousness.

Kids and adults alike will absolutely devour these homemade chicken tenders faster than you can say “seconds, please!” Quick to prepare and guaranteed to impress, this recipe ensures dinner becomes the highlight of your evening.

Why Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders Are So Crispy

• Incredibly Quick Weeknight Dinner: Whip up these crispy chicken tenders in just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect solution for busy families craving a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Foolproof Cooking Technique: Even novice cooks can nail this recipe with simple dipping and coating steps that guarantee a perfectly crispy exterior and juicy interior every single time.
• Kid-Approved Crowd-Pleaser: Packed with familiar flavors and a crunchy coating that children love, these chicken tenders transform mealtime into a stress-free experience that satisfies both parents and picky eaters.
• Healthier Baked Alternative: Skip the deep-frying and enjoy a lighter version of a classic comfort food that's baked to golden perfection, reducing excess oil while maintaining maximum flavor and crunch.

Ingredients For Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

• Chicken Tenders: Lean, tender strips perfect for a crispy baked dish. Opt for fresh, uniform-sized tenders for even cooking.

• Eggs, Milk: Helps breadcrumbs stick to chicken and creates a rich, golden exterior. Whole milk provides better binding and flavor.

• Breadcrumbs, Parmesan Cheese: Provides crispy texture and extra flavor. Plain breadcrumbs work best, with added Parmesan for depth.

• Garlic Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Adds warmth, color, and balanced seasoning. Use fresh spices for maximum flavor impact.

• Cooking Spray: Helps achieve golden-brown exterior and prevents sticking. Olive oil spray adds a nice subtle flavor.

Steps To Make Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Surface

Heat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking. This ensures your chicken tenders will cook evenly and won’t get soggy.

Step 2: Create Egg Wash

• Eggs
• Milk

The egg wash helps the breading stick perfectly to the chicken tenders.

Step 3: Mix Crunchy Coating

• Breadcrumbs
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Ground black pepper

This blend creates a flavorful and crispy exterior that’ll make your taste buds dance.

Step 4: Coat Chicken Tenders

Dunk each chicken tender into the egg mixture, making sure it’s completely covered. Then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere. This technique locks in moisture and creates a golden, crunchy exterior.

Step 5: Arrange on Baking Sheet

Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet, leaving space between each piece. Avoid overcrowding to ensure each tender gets crispy and brown.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray. This extra step helps them turn a beautiful golden color and adds an extra crunch.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through cooking. They’re done when they reach a gorgeous golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Pull out your crispy chicken tenders and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce. Whether it’s classic ranch, tangy barbecue, or spicy sriracha mayo, these tenders are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Best Tips For Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

• Maximize Crispiness: Use panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunchy exterior that stays crisp even after cooling.
• Prevent Soggy Bottoms: Place chicken tenders on a wire rack over the baking sheet to allow air circulation and ensure all-around crunchiness.
• Customize Flavor Profiles: Experiment with different spice blends like Italian seasoning, ranch mix, or cajun spices to transform the basic recipe.
• Gluten-Free Adaptation: Swap regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives like crushed cornflakes or almond flour for a celiac-friendly version.
• Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare and bread the chicken tenders in advance, then refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for convenient meal prep.

How To Store Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

• Refrigerate leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
• Keep them fresh for 3-4 days by storing in the coldest part of your refrigerator.
• Wrap each tender separately in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain crispiness and prevent moisture buildup.
• Reheat in the oven at 350F for 10-12 minutes to restore the original crispy texture, avoiding microwave heating which can make the breading soggy.
• Freeze cooled tenders in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly before serving.
• For best quality, consume frozen tenders within one month and always check for any signs of spoilage before reheating.

What Goes With Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

• Dip into Ranch Revival: Creamy ranch dressing complements the crispy chicken tenders perfectly, adding a cool tanginess that balances the warm, golden breading.
• Pair with Zesty Coleslaw Crunch: A fresh, crunchy coleslaw with a light vinegar-based dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich, breaded chicken.
• Splash with Craft Beer Delight: A light, hoppy American pale ale cuts through the breading's richness, enhancing the overall flavor profile and offering a crisp, refreshing accompaniment.
• Serve with Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries with a sprinkle of sea salt create a nutritious side that echoes the golden, crispy texture of the chicken tenders.

Fun Twists On Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders

• Herb-Crusted Chicken Fingers: Replace breadcrumbs with crushed herb crackers and add fresh chopped rosemary, thyme, and basil for an aromatic Mediterranean-inspired coating.
• Spicy Southwestern Tenders: Mix cornmeal with breadcrumbs, add chili powder, cumin, and cayenne pepper to create a zesty, crunchy exterior that brings southwestern heat.
• Gluten-Free Crispy Options: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko, ensuring those with dietary restrictions can enjoy crispy chicken tenders.
• Parmesan Ranch Chicken Strips: Incorporate ranch seasoning mix into the breadcrumb coating and increase Parmesan cheese for a tangy, savory flavor profile that kids and adults will love.

Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders FAQs

• How do I make sure the breading sticks to the chicken tenders?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry before dipping, press the breadcrumb mixture firmly onto the chicken, and don’t rush the coating process. Each tender should be completely and evenly coated with a light, even layer of breadcrumbs.

• Can I use different types of breadcrumbs?

Absolutely! You can use traditional breadcrumbs, panko breadcrumbs, or even crushed cornflakes or crackers. Each will give a slightly different texture and crunch to your chicken tenders.

• Why should I spray the tenders with cooking spray before baking?

Spraying with cooking spray helps the breading brown evenly and become crispy. It adds a nice golden color and helps the exterior get that perfect crunch without deep frying.

• How can I tell if the chicken is fully cooked?

Always use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165F. This ensures the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat, preventing any risk of foodborne illness.

Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders Recipe

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4.7 from 14 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Crispy chicken tenders bring comfort right to the dinner table, with golden breaded goodness that promises delightful crunch in every bite. Home cooks can easily create this classic favorite, delivering restaurant-quality flavor without complicated techniques.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 1 pound (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken tenders

Coating Ingredients:

• 1 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Binding Ingredients:

• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons milk
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

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Instructions

1. Prepare the oven by heating it to 400F (200C) and create a non-stick surface on a baking sheet using parchment paper or cooking spray.
2. Create a binding liquid by whisking eggs and milk together in a shallow container, ensuring a smooth, even mixture.
3. Craft a crispy coating by combining breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a separate bowl, mixing thoroughly to distribute seasonings evenly.
4. Transform each chicken tender into a crispy delight by first dunking it completely in the egg mixture, allowing excess liquid to drip off.
5. Roll the egg-coated tender carefully through the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, applying gentle pressure to ensure a consistent, adherent layer of breading.
6. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, maintaining space between each piece to promote even cooking and crispiness.
7. Enhance golden browning by lightly misting the tenders with cooking spray, which will help achieve a beautiful, crisp exterior.
8. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and roast for 18-20 minutes, rotating the tenders midway to guarantee uniform cooking and color.
9. Verify doneness by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165F, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and safe to consume.
10. Present the golden-brown tenders immediately, accompanied by your preferred dipping sauce for a delectable meal.

Notes

• Customize the breadcrumb mix by adding herbs like dried basil or oregano for extra flavor depth.
• Transform this recipe into a gluten-free version by swapping regular breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free panko.
• Boost protein intake by using whole wheat breadcrumbs or adding ground nuts to the coating mixture for added crunch and nutrition.
• Ensure even cooking by choosing chicken tenders of similar size and thickness, which helps achieve consistent golden-brown exterior and juicy interior.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 300
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 400 mg
• Fat: 10 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 28 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg