If you’re craving a crispy, flavorful snack or a family-friendly dinner, you’re going to love this Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe. It’s a simple, healthier twist on a classic favorite that delivers that perfect golden crunch without the hassle of deep frying. Trust me, once you make these tender, juicy chicken strips coated in a savory Parmesan and breadcrumb crust, you’ll wonder why you ever bought frozen tenders from the store.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, accessible ingredients is the first step toward creating something truly delicious. Each element in this Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that will make your taste buds dance.
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips: Fresh chicken tenderloins give you tender, juicy bites perfect for coating.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: The base for that irresistible crunchy crust.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses the coating with a warm, savory aroma.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a subtle smokiness and beautiful color to the crust.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
- 2 eggs, beaten: Acts as a sticky layer to help the coating adhere perfectly.
- Olive oil spray: Keeps the tenders crisp and golden as they bake.
How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start off by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is just right for baking your chicken tenders so they come out crispy on the outside while staying juicy inside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Mix the Coating
In a medium bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This blend is the secret behind the irresistible flavor and texture of your homemade tenders. Make sure the mixture is well combined for an even coating every time.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off, then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture. Press the crumbs gently onto the chicken to make sure it’s fully coated. This two-step process guarantees that perfect crispy crust you’re aiming for.
Step 4: Arrange and Spray
Place the coated tenders evenly spaced on your prepared baking sheet. Don’t crowd them—air circulation helps get them nice and crispy. Give each piece a light spray of olive oil. This little touch helps the crust brown beautifully and crisp up in the oven.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Bake your chicken tenders for 15 to 20 minutes. Flip them halfway through baking to ensure even golden brown all around. Once they’re cooked through and the coating is crunchy and golden, you’re ready to dig in!
How to Serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can turn your baked chicken tenders from simple to spectacular. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or chives over the top to bring a pop of color and fresh herbal notes. A wedge of lemon on the side adds a zesty brightness that complements the savory crunchy coating perfectly.
Side Dishes
When pairing sides with your Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe, aim for balance. Crisp garden salads with a tangy vinaigrette, roasted veggies, or classic mashed potatoes make excellent companions. For a fun twist, crispy sweet potato fries or homemade coleslaw add contrasting textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve these tenders as finger-food appetizers alongside a trio of dipping sauces like honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, and classic ranch. Alternatively, stack them in sandwiches with lettuce, tomato, and a drizzle of your favorite sauce for a satisfying handheld meal. The possibilities for presentation are as delightful as the recipe itself.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftovers from your Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a quick snack or addition to your lunchbox.
Freezing
These tenders freeze wonderfully. Arrange the cooled chicken strips on a baking sheet and freeze until solid to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. You can keep them frozen for up to 2 months, making it super convenient to enjoy delicious homemade chicken tenders anytime.
Reheating
For the best reheated texture, warm leftovers in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes rather than using a microwave. This helps maintain the crispiness of the coating while heating the chicken evenly.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While Parmesan adds a distinct nuttiness, feel free to experiment with Asiago, Pecorino Romano, or even sharp cheddar for a unique twist on the flavor profile.
Is it necessary to use eggs for coating?
The eggs act as a binder that helps the breadcrumb mixture stick to the chicken. If you want an egg-free version, you can substitute with buttermilk or a mixture of yogurt and a little water, but the coating might be a bit less crisp.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mix. For a smoky kick, smoked paprika works wonderfully without overpowering the other flavors.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, just double all the ingredients and bake in batches if your oven or baking sheets aren’t large enough. These chicken tenders are always crowd-pleasers at parties and family gatherings!
What dipping sauces complement Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe?
Classic choices like honey mustard, ranch, barbecue sauce, or even a spicy buffalo dip pair perfectly. You can also try garlic aioli or a tangy yogurt-based sauce for something different.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to impress with a recipe that is easy to make but packed with flavor, the Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is a fantastic go-to. It strikes the perfect balance between crispy and juicy, and its versatility means it can suit any occasion, from a casual weeknight meal to a sharing platter for friends. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite chicken recipe!
Print
Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and crispy homemade baked chicken tenders coated in a flavorful mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and spices. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
Coating
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Binding & Finish
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the chicken tenders to a perfect golden crisp.
- Mix Coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. This will form the flavorful crust for the chicken tenders.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs to coat them evenly, then dredge them thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture so each piece is well covered.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil to help achieve a crispy texture while baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure an even golden brown and thoroughly cooked chicken tender.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the tenders for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching closely to prevent burning.
- Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Make sure chicken strips are uniform in size for even cooking.
- These tenders can be served with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
