Description
This recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders offers a healthier alternative to fried chicken without sacrificing crunch or flavor. Coated in a seasoned mix of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, these tenders bake to a golden perfection with a satisfyingly crispy texture. Perfect for a family dinner or a game day snack, they’re quick to prepare and pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) chicken tenders or chicken breast, cut into strips
Breading
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs, beaten
Finishing
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray the parchment with olive oil to prevent sticking and promote crispiness.
- Set Up Breading Station: Prepare three separate dishes: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with a seasoned breadcrumb mixture made by combining panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Coat the Chicken: Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels to ensure the coating adheres well. Dredge each piece first in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil to achieve a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake and Flip: Bake the chicken tenders for 18-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through to brown both sides evenly. Bake until the coating is golden and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce for a delicious meal or snack.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, make sure to spray olive oil liberally on the tenders before baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is cooked to a safe temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Chicken breasts can be used instead of tenders but cut into strips to maintain cooking consistency.
- Leftover chicken tenders can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness, avoiding microwave reheating.
- Feel free to customize the seasoning in the breadcrumb mix to suit your taste preferences.
