There’s something so comforting about a plate of golden, crispy chicken tenders fresh from the oven. Whether you’re making them for a quick family dinner, a game-day snack, or even a kid-friendly meal, these homemade baked chicken tenders are a winner every time.

Unlike store-bought versions or deep-fried fast-food options, these tenders are baked to perfection—delivering all the crunch without the excess oil. The combination of a well-seasoned breadcrumb coating and juicy chicken creates the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Plus, they’re super easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.

Let’s dive into this delicious and wholesome recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Crispy & Crunchy Without Frying – Baking gives you that satisfying crunch without the mess and extra calories of frying.
• Kid-Friendly & Family Approved – These tenders are a hit with both kids and adults alike. Serve them with a favorite dipping sauce for a meal that everyone will love.
• Easy & Quick to Make – Simple ingredients and an easy process make this recipe perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthier Alternative – No deep frying means less oil and a lighter, guilt-free way to enjoy crispy chicken.
• Perfect for Meal Prep – Make a batch ahead of time and reheat for quick meals throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 ½ lbs chicken tenders
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon milk
• 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Set up your breading station with three separate bowls:

1. Flour Bowl – Add the all-purpose flour.
2. Egg Mixture Bowl – Whisk the eggs and milk together until well combined.
3. Breadcrumb Mixture Bowl – Combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix well.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken

Take each chicken tender and follow this breading process:

1. Dredge in flour, coating it completely and shaking off any excess.
2. Dip into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
3. Press into the breadcrumb mixture, making sure the entire piece is covered in the crispy coating.

For extra crunch, press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken firmly before placing it on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 3: Arrange & Bake

Place the coated chicken tenders on the baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they’re not touching. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle a small amount of olive oil to help them crisp up.

Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Once done, let the tenders rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or ketchup for the ultimate experience.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Chicken Tenders

• Use Panko for Extra Crunch – Regular breadcrumbs will work, but panko breadcrumbs create a crispier texture.
• Press the Breading Firmly – This ensures the coating sticks well and doesn’t fall off while baking.
• Don’t Skip the Cooking Spray – A light mist of oil helps the coating crisp up beautifully in the oven.
• Flip Halfway Through – This helps achieve even browning on both sides.
• Check the Internal Temperature – To ensure your chicken is fully cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F (75°C).

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Dinner, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: High-Protein

Notes

• For Extra Flavor: You can add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or hot sauce to the egg mixture for a slight tangy kick.
• Make It Spicier: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for some heat.
• For Even Crispier Tenders: Place a wire rack on the baking sheet and bake the tenders on top. This allows air to circulate underneath, ensuring crispiness on all sides.
• No Panko? No Problem! You can use crushed cornflakes or crushed crackers as a substitute for a crispy texture.
• Dipping Sauce Ideas: Try serving with honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, buffalo sauce, or even homemade garlic aioli for extra flavor.
• Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the tenders to prevent them from drying out. Check for doneness at the 18-minute mark.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Skip the Parmesan cheese and use dairy-free milk in the egg mixture if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Make These Chicken Tenders Gluten-Free?

Yes! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Tenders?

Absolutely! Just slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips similar in size to tenders.

How Do I Make These Extra Crispy?

For an extra crispy coating, try double-dipping: after the first breadcrumb coating, dip the tender in the egg mixture again and coat with breadcrumbs a second time before baking.

Can I Make These Ahead of Time?

Yes! You can bread the chicken in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

Storage Instructions

Refrigerating:

Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

To keep them crispy, reheat in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 3-4 minutes.

Freezing:

To freeze, place the fully cooked tenders on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 400°F oven for 15-18 minutes.

Related Recipes

If you loved these crispy baked chicken tenders, here are a few more recipes to try:

• Lemon Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders
• Homemade Popcorn Chicken
• Crispy Gobi Manchurian – A Flavor-Packed Indo-Chinese Delight
• Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Conclusion

There’s nothing quite like a batch of homemade baked chicken tenders to bring comfort and joy to the dinner table. With their crispy coating, tender and juicy inside, and the ease of baking instead of frying, they’re a perfect meal for any occasion.

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