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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
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★★★★★

4.9 from 13 reviews

Deliciously crispy baked chicken tenders made with a flavorful panko breadcrumb and Parmesan coating. Easy to prepare and a healthier alternative to fried chicken, these tenders are perfect for a quick dinner or snack and pair wonderfully with your favorite dipping sauces.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders, cut into 1-inch strips

Breading

  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Other

  • Olive oil spray for coating

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, cut them into strips about 1 inch wide. If using chicken tenders, you can skip this step as they are already in strips.
  2. Prepare the Breading Stations: In one bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In another bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese if using, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
  4. Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, allowing excess to drip off. Then coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to help the coating adhere. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb coating for a double layer.
  5. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. For best results, place a wire rack on the sheet to allow air circulation for crispier tenders.
  6. Arrange the Chicken on the Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders spaced evenly on the prepared baking surface to ensure even cooking.
  7. Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the coated chicken tenders with olive oil spray to aid crispiness. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time. The tenders will be golden brown and crisp when done. Verify they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
  8. Serve and Enjoy: Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes after baking. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.

Notes

  • Using a wire rack on the baking sheet helps the tenders crisp up evenly by allowing air circulation.
  • Double coating with egg and breadcrumbs gives an extra crunchy crust.
  • Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory flavor to the breading.
  • Make sure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to be safe to eat.
  • Olive oil spray helps mimic frying by making the coating crispier when baking.
  • These tenders are best eaten fresh but can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken tenders, healthy chicken tenders, baked chicken strips, panko chicken tenders, easy chicken recipe

Find it online: https://trendytasterecipes.com/crispy-baked-chicken-tenders-recipe/