Description
Homemade baked chicken tenders are a delicious, healthier alternative to the deep-fried version. This easy recipe features tender, juicy chicken strips coated in a crispy, golden breadcrumb coating. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, meal prepping, or a fun family meal, these chicken tenders are both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips (about 1-inch wide). If using chicken tenders, you can skip this step.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken tenders with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip first into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, coat the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs stick. For an extra crunchy coating, you can repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping process.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. If you have a wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet.
- Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet (or wire rack), leaving space between each tender for even cooking.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spray the chicken tenders lightly with olive oil spray. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove from the oven, let rest for a few minutes, and serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Made this recipe? Drop a photo in the comments below and get featured in the “Made By You” gallery on this post!
- Prep Time: PT10M
- Cook Time: PT20M
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 375 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 42 g
- Cholesterol: 145 mg
Keywords: Homemade, Baked, Chicken, Tenders, 30 minute