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Baked Chicken Tenders

These baked chicken tenders feature a crispy, golden exterior with a juicy, tender inside. Coated in a homemade breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, they are baked to perfection, offering a healthier alternative to fried tenders while maintaining satisfying crunch and flavor. Perfect for weeknight dinners, snacks, or casual gatherings, they are easy to customize with different herbs and spices.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces chicken breasts skinless, boneless, cut into strips
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese grated
  • 2 pieces eggs beaten with a splash of milk
  • 1 teaspoon paprika adds warmth and color
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for flavor
  • Salt and pepper to taste seasoning adjust as needed
  • Olive oil spray for coating helps crisp the exterior

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or silicone mat
  • Medium bowl
  • Shallow dish
  • Tongs
  • Kitchen spray or brush

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
  2. Slice the chicken breasts into strips about 1 inch wide and 3 inches long, then pat them dry to remove excess moisture.
  3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs with a splash of milk until smooth and frothy.
  4. In a shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
  5. Dip each chicken strip into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the coating sticks.
  6. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
  7. Lightly spray or brush the tenders with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven.
  8. Bake in the oven for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the tenders are golden brown and crispy.
  9. Check for doneness by ensuring the tenders are golden and the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). They should feel crisp and sound slightly hollow when tapped.
  10. Remove the tenders from the oven and let them rest for 3-5 minutes — this helps keep them juicy inside.
  11. Serve the crispy baked tenders hot with your favorite dipping sauce or a side salad for a complete meal.

Notes

For extra crispiness, chill the coated tenders for 10 minutes before baking. Use panko breadcrumbs for the best crunch, and don’t forget to spray with oil for a golden finish. Feel free to experiment with different spices or cheese for added flavor.