Description
These Easy Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a perfect homemade meal that’s juicy on the inside and golden-crispy on the outside. Coated with a flavorful blend of paprika, garlic powder, and crunchy panko breadcrumbs, they bake quickly at 400°F for a healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders. Ideal for family dinners or game day snacks, these tenders come out deliciously crispy without the mess of deep frying.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken tenders
Breading and Coating
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
Seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Other
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Flour: Place the all-purpose flour in the first shallow bowl for dredging the chicken tenders.
- Make Egg Wash: In the second bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until combined to create a smooth egg wash for coating.
- Mix Breadcrumbs and Spices: In the third bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper to create a flavorful breading mixture.
- Dredge in Flour: Take each chicken tender and coat it evenly in the flour, shaking off any excess flour to avoid clumps.
- Dip in Egg Wash: Next, dip the floured chicken tenders into the egg wash to ensure an even and thorough coating.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Press each tender firmly into the breadcrumb mixture, coating all sides evenly for maximum crispiness.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet ensuring they are spaced evenly and not touching.
- Apply Cooking Spray: Lightly spray the tops of the breaded tenders with cooking spray to help them brown and crisp up beautifully in the oven.
- Bake: Bake the chicken tenders for about 18–20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until they are cooked through, golden brown, and crispy on the outside.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces for a deliciously crispy chicken tender experience.
Notes
- Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch, or regular breadcrumbs if preferred.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the baking sheet to allow even crisping.
- Turning the tenders halfway through baking ensures both sides cook evenly and get crispy.
- For a spicier kick, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix.
- These tenders can be served with honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue dipping sauces.
