Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

For years, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect homemade chicken tender recipe. We’ve tried countless versions – some were soggy, some were bland, and others just didn’t quite hit that satisfying crispy crunch we all crave. Then, I stumbled upon this method of baking chicken tenders, and let me tell you, it’s been a game-changer in our household. My kids, who are notoriously picky eaters, now cheer when they see these crispy delights on the dinner table. They are unbelievably juicy on the inside, shatteringly crispy on the outside, and surprisingly easy to make. Forget greasy takeout – these baked chicken tenders are healthier, tastier, and will become a family favorite in no time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll never look at chicken tenders the same way again!

Ingredients

To create these incredibly crispy and flavorful baked chicken tenders, you’ll need a selection of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Let’s break down each component and discuss why they are essential for achieving the perfect texture and taste.

For the Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenderloins: Chicken tenderloins are the star of the show! They are naturally tender and cook quickly, making them ideal for this recipe. Look for fresh, boneless, skinless chicken tenderloins. If you can only find chicken breasts, you can easily cut them into strips that resemble tenderloins. Try to cut them into roughly even sizes to ensure they cook uniformly. Opting for high-quality chicken, like organic or free-range, can enhance the overall flavor and texture. Before you begin, pat the chicken tenderloins thoroughly dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving maximum crispiness, as excess moisture can hinder browning and create steam during baking, leading to soggy tenders instead of crispy ones.

For the Marinade (Optional, but Highly Recommended):

• 1/2 cup Buttermilk: Buttermilk is the secret weapon for incredibly tender and juicy chicken. The lactic acid in buttermilk tenderizes the chicken fibers, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture. It also helps the breading adhere better. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes until slightly thickened. While the marinade is optional, it significantly elevates the tenderness and flavor of the chicken tenders, making them even more irresistible. For those with dairy sensitivities, consider using a plant-based buttermilk alternative like cashew or almond milk mixed with lemon juice.
• 1 teaspoon Paprika: Paprika adds a subtle smoky sweetness and vibrant color to the chicken. You can use sweet paprika for a mild flavor or smoked paprika for a deeper, more pronounced smoky note. Paprika not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the beautiful golden-brown hue of the baked chicken tenders.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder provides a foundational savory flavor that complements the chicken perfectly. Its granulated texture ensures even distribution throughout the marinade and breading. Garlic powder is a convenient and versatile way to add garlic flavor without the sharpness of fresh garlic, which might become overpowering during baking.
• 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: Onion powder, similar to garlic powder, adds a savory depth and complexity to the flavor profile. It works synergistically with garlic powder to create a well-rounded and aromatic base for the chicken tenders. Onion powder is made from dehydrated onions and delivers a concentrated onion flavor that is perfect for seasoning.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Salt is essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing the flavors of all the other ingredients. It draws out moisture from the chicken, which, surprisingly, helps to create a crispier exterior when baked. Use kosher salt or sea salt for the best flavor. Adjust the amount of salt to your preference, but remember that salt is crucial for balancing the overall taste of the dish.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Black pepper adds a touch of subtle spice and complexity. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred for its more robust flavor, but pre-ground black pepper works just as well. Black pepper enhances the savory notes and adds a slight warmth that complements the other seasonings.

For the Crispy Breading:

• 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are the key to achieving that signature crispy texture. Unlike regular breadcrumbs, panko is made from crustless white bread and has a coarser, flakier texture. This allows for more air pockets, resulting in a lighter and crispier coating when baked. Do not substitute with regular breadcrumbs if you want to achieve the same level of crispiness. Panko breadcrumbs are readily available in most grocery stores.
• 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour serves as the first layer of breading, helping the egg wash and panko breadcrumbs adhere better to the chicken. It creates a slightly thicker coating that contributes to both the crispiness and the overall structure of the chicken tenders. You can also use gluten-free all-purpose flour blends for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
• 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory, and slightly nutty flavor to the breading. It also contributes to the golden-brown color and crispiness when baked. Use finely grated Parmesan cheese for even distribution in the breading mixture. Freshly grated Parmesan will offer the best flavor, but pre-grated Parmesan is convenient and works well too. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the Parmesan cheese or use a plant-based Parmesan alternative.
• 1 teaspoon Paprika: We are using paprika again in the breading for an extra layer of flavor and color. It complements the paprika used in the marinade (if you chose to marinate) and enhances the overall depth of flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Garlic powder in the breading reinforces the savory garlic notes and ensures that the flavor is present in every bite. It works in harmony with the garlic powder in the marinade to create a cohesive and delicious flavor profile.
• 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder: Onion powder in the breading mirrors the onion powder in the marinade, creating a balanced and aromatic flavor foundation. It adds complexity and depth to the breading, making it more flavorful than just plain breadcrumbs.
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Oregano: Dried oregano adds a subtle herbaceous and slightly peppery note to the breading. It complements the other spices and adds a touch of Mediterranean flair. You can substitute with other dried herbs like thyme or Italian seasoning if you prefer. Oregano enhances the savory flavors and adds a layer of aromatic complexity.
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning the breading itself. It ensures that the breading is flavorful and not bland, and it balances the overall seasoning of the chicken tenders. Adjust the amount of salt to your preference, but remember that properly seasoned breading is essential for delicious chicken tenders.
• 1/4 teaspoon Black Pepper: Black pepper in the breading adds a touch of subtle spice and warmth. It complements the other spices and enhances the overall flavor profile. Freshly ground black pepper is ideal, but pre-ground works well too.
• 2 Large Eggs: Eggs serve as the binding agent for the breading. The egg whites help the flour and panko breadcrumbs adhere to the chicken, creating a cohesive and crispy coating. Whisk the eggs well until they are lightly frothy to ensure even coating. You can add a tablespoon of water or milk to the eggs for a slightly thinner egg wash, which can help create a lighter breading.

For Baking:

• Olive Oil Spray: Olive oil spray is used to lightly coat the baking sheet and the chicken tenders. This helps to promote browning and crisping without adding excessive amounts of oil. Olive oil spray is a healthier alternative to using large amounts of oil for frying and helps achieve a beautifully golden-brown and crispy exterior when baked. You can also use avocado oil spray or cooking spray.

Instructions

Now that we have all of our ingredients prepped, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to create these amazing crispy baked chicken tenders. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure perfect results every time.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Optional but Recommended)

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure all the spices are well incorporated into the buttermilk. The buttermilk should be slightly seasoned and have a subtle aroma from the spices.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken tenderloins to the buttermilk marinade. Make sure each tenderloin is fully submerged in the marinade for even tenderizing and flavor infusion. You can gently toss the chicken to ensure it’s coated on all sides.
3. Refrigerate: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum tenderness and flavor. Marinating for longer periods will result in even juicier and more flavorful chicken. If you are short on time, even a 15-minute marinade will make a noticeable difference.

Step 2: Prepare the Breading Stations

1. Flour Station: In a shallow dish or pie plate, place the all-purpose flour. This will be your first breading station. Ensure the flour is evenly spread out and free of clumps.
2. Egg Wash Station: In a separate shallow dish or pie plate, whisk the eggs until they are lightly frothy and the yolks and whites are fully combined. A consistent egg wash is essential for even breading adhesion.
3. Panko Breading Station: In a third shallow dish or pie plate, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix all the dry ingredients thoroughly with your hands or a whisk to ensure they are evenly distributed throughout the panko breadcrumbs. This step is crucial for consistent flavor in every bite.

Step 3: Bread the Chicken Tenders

1. Dredge in Flour: Remove a chicken tenderloin from the buttermilk marinade (letting any excess marinade drip back into the bowl). Dredge it in the flour, ensuring it is completely coated on all sides. Shake off any excess flour. The flour layer provides a dry surface for the egg wash to adhere to.
2. Dip in Egg Wash: Dip the flour-coated chicken tenderloin into the egg wash, making sure it is fully submerged and coated in egg. Let any excess egg wash drip back into the dish. The egg wash acts as a glue, helping the panko breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.
3. Coat in Panko Breadcrumbs: Transfer the egg-washed chicken tenderloin to the panko breadcrumb mixture. Press the chicken firmly into the breadcrumbs, ensuring it is completely coated on all sides. Use your hands to gently press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken to ensure they adhere well and create a thick, even coating. A generous coating of panko is key for achieving maximum crispiness.
4. Repeat: Repeat the breading process for all remaining chicken tenderloins. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders on a clean plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken Tenders

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray a large baking sheet with olive oil spray. This prevents the chicken tenders from sticking and promotes even browning on the bottom. You can also line the baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup, but spraying the parchment paper lightly with oil is still recommended for optimal crispiness.
2. Arrange Chicken Tenders: Place the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of baking, resulting in soggy chicken tenders. If necessary, bake in batches to ensure even cooking and crisping.
3. Spray with Olive Oil: Lightly spray the tops of the breaded chicken tenders with olive oil spray. This helps to promote browning and crisping on the top of the tenders, mimicking the effect of frying without the added oil.
4. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature at the thickest part of a tenderloin to ensure it is fully cooked.
5. Flip (Optional for Extra Even Browning): For extra even browning, you can carefully flip the chicken tenders halfway through baking, around 12-15 minutes. This ensures that both sides of the tenders get evenly exposed to the heat, resulting in more uniform crispiness.
6. Rest (Optional): Once baked, you can let the chicken tenders rest on the baking sheet for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Serve Immediately: Serve the crispy baked chicken tenders immediately while they are hot and at their crispiest. They are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven.
2. Dipping Sauces: Serve with your favorite dipping sauces. (See “How to Serve” section for delicious dipping sauce ideas and serving suggestions).
3. Garnish (Optional): Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, if desired, for added visual appeal and flavor.

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated, per serving, assuming 4 servings total. Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)

• Serving Size: Approximately 3-4 chicken tenders
• Servings Per Recipe: 4

Approximate Nutritional Values per Serving:

• Calories: 450-550 kcal
• Protein: 40-50g
• Fat: 20-30g
  • Saturated Fat: 5-8g
• Cholesterol: 150-200mg
• Sodium: 600-800mg (depending on salt added)
• Carbohydrates: 20-30g
  • Fiber: 2-3g
  • Sugar: 2-3g

Important Note: These are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. For more accurate nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and quantities you use. Remember that baking instead of frying significantly reduces the fat content compared to traditional chicken tenders.

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 30 minutes (includes marinating time, if using)
• Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes (including marinating time)

If you skip the marinating step, the total prep time will be reduced to approximately 20 minutes. This recipe is relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

How to Serve

These crispy baked chicken tenders are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Dipping Sauces:
  • Ketchup: A timeless classic, perfect for kids and adults alike.
  • Honey Mustard: Sweet and tangy, a delightful complement to the savory chicken.
  • Ranch Dressing: Creamy and herby, always a crowd-pleaser.
  • BBQ Sauce: Smoky and sweet, adds a robust flavor dimension.
  • Buffalo Sauce: For those who like a spicy kick, buffalo sauce brings the heat.
• Side Dishes for a Complete Meal:
  • French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: Classic pairings for chicken tenders, perfect for a comfort food meal.
  • Coleslaw: Creamy and crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the crispy chicken.
  • Mac and Cheese: A cheesy and comforting side dish that kids (and adults!) love.
  • Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: Turn chicken tenders into a hearty meal with creamy mashed potatoes and flavorful gravy.
  • Roasted Vegetables: Balance the meal with healthy roasted vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or Brussels sprouts.
  • Corn on the Cob: A summery side dish that pairs well with the savory chicken tenders.
  • Salad: A fresh green salad or Caesar salad offers a lighter counterpoint to the richness of the chicken tenders.
• Creative Serving Ideas:
  • Chicken Tender Salad: Slice the crispy chicken tenders and top a fresh garden salad or Caesar salad for a protein-packed meal.
  • Chicken Tender Wraps or Tacos: Wrap the chicken tenders in tortillas or taco shells with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, and salsa for a fun and customizable meal.
  • Chicken Tender Bowls: Create a bowl meal with rice, quinoa, or couscous as a base, topped with crispy chicken tenders, roasted vegetables, and your choice of sauce.
  • Chicken Tender Sliders: Cut the chicken tenders into smaller pieces and serve them on slider buns with coleslaw and pickles for mini chicken sandwiches.
  • Party Platter: Arrange the crispy chicken tenders on a platter with a variety of dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at parties or gatherings.

Additional Tips for Perfect Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

To ensure your baked chicken tenders are consistently crispy, juicy, and delicious, follow these helpful tips:

1. Pat the Chicken Dry: Before marinating or breading, thoroughly pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Moisture creates steam during baking, which can lead to soggy chicken. A dry surface allows the breading to adhere better and crisp up beautifully.
2. Don’t Skip the Panko: Panko breadcrumbs are the secret weapon for extra crispy baked chicken tenders. Their coarse texture creates air pockets that result in a lighter and crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs. While you can use regular breadcrumbs in a pinch, panko will deliver the best crispy texture.
3. Use a Wire Rack on the Baking Sheet (Optional but Recommended): For even crispier bottoms, place a wire rack on top of your baking sheet and place the breaded chicken tenders on the rack. This allows air to circulate around the chicken tenders, promoting even crisping on all sides, including the bottom. If you don’t have a wire rack, flipping the chicken tenders halfway through baking is a good alternative.
4. Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure the chicken tenders are arranged in a single layer on the baking sheet without overcrowding. Overcrowding traps steam and prevents proper browning and crisping. If necessary, bake in batches to ensure each tender has enough space to bake properly.
5. Preheat the Oven Properly: Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 400°F (200°C) before placing the chicken tenders inside. A hot oven is essential for achieving a crispy exterior and ensuring the chicken cooks through quickly and evenly. Using an oven thermometer can help ensure your oven temperature is accurate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?

A: For the best crispiness, it’s recommended to serve these chicken tenders immediately after baking. However, you can prepare the breaded chicken tenders ahead of time and store them unbaked in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 hours. Bake them just before serving. Alternatively, you can bake them ahead and reheat them, but they will lose some of their crispiness. To reheat, bake them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Air frying reheated chicken tenders can also help restore some crispiness.

Q2: Can I freeze baked chicken tenders?

A: Yes, you can freeze baked chicken tenders. Let them cool completely after baking. Then, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. This prevents them from sticking together. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and crispy. Air frying from frozen is also a great option for reheating and regaining crispiness.

Q3: Can I use different spices or seasonings?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the spices and seasonings to your liking. You can experiment with different herbs and spices in both the marinade and the breading. Some great additions or substitutions include: Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, dried thyme, dried rosemary, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat. Get creative and find your favorite flavor combinations!

Q4: Can I make these gluten-free?

A: Yes, you can easily make these chicken tenders gluten-free. Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure the blend you use is designed for baking and has a similar consistency to regular flour. Double-check that all other ingredients, especially the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese, are certified gluten-free if you are sensitive or have celiac disease. Many brands now offer gluten-free panko breadcrumbs.

Q5: Can I air fry these chicken tenders instead of baking?

A: Yes, you can definitely air fry these chicken tenders! Air frying is a fantastic way to achieve even crispier results and often takes less time than baking. Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C). Place the breaded chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they are not overcrowded. You may need to cook in batches. Air fry for about 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown and crispy. Air frying will result in exceptionally crispy chicken tenders with a slightly shorter cooking time.