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Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders offer a healthier, oven-baked alternative to fried versions, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing appetizer that’s surprisingly simple to make right in your own kitchen with minimal fuss.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Main Course
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch strips
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
  • to taste salt
  • to taste freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 large eggs whisked
  • 2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter

Equipment

  • Baking Sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Silicone Baking Mat
  • Shallow dishes or bowls

Method
 

  1. Start by trimming any excess fat from your chicken breasts. Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch wide strips to ensure even cooking. Place the chicken strips in a bowl and season generously with salt and pepper.
    1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, to taste salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper
  2. Create three shallow dishes or bowls for your breading station. In the first dish, combine the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Whisk to combine.
    1/2 cup all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper, to taste salt, to taste freshly ground black pepper
  3. In the second dish, whisk together the two large eggs with the milk or buttermilk until well combined. This wet mixture helps the breadcrumbs adhere beautifully.
    2 large eggs, 2 tablespoons milk or buttermilk
  4. In the third dish, place the panko breadcrumbs. Panko is essential for achieving that extra-crispy, flaky texture.
    1 cup panko breadcrumbs
  5. Take each chicken tender and first dredge it in the seasoned flour, making sure to coat all sides. Gently shake off any excess flour. Next, dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture, allowing any excess to drip off. Finally, press the chicken into the panko breadcrumbs, ensuring a generous and even coating. Press down gently to help the crumbs stick. Place the breaded chicken tenders on a plate or baking sheet as you work.
  6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. Arrange the breaded chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensure they are not touching each other to promote even crisping.
  7. Drizzle the olive oil or melted butter evenly over the tops of the breaded chicken tenders. This crucial step helps them achieve that deep golden-brown color and satisfying crispiness in the oven.
    2 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter
  8. Bake for 18-25 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through the cooking time (around the 10-12 minute mark). The exact time will depend on the thickness of your chicken strips. They are ready when they are golden brown, crispy, and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  9. Remove the Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For an added touch of magic, consider a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese mixed into the panko for an extra layer of savory flavor.