Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two large baking sheets with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup. If not using parchment paper, lightly grease the baking sheets with cooking spray or brush them with olive oil.2 tablespoons cooking spray or olive oil
- Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for ensuring the breading adheres well and results in a crispy coating. If you’re using chicken breasts, you might want to pound them slightly to an even thickness before cutting into strips for more uniform cooking.1.5 pounds chicken breasts or thighs
- In the first dish, combine the all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Whisk everything together until well combined. This seasoned flour will be your first layer of coating.1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons salt, 1 teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon paprika, 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder, 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
- In the second dish, whisk together the eggs and milk or water until smooth. This wet mixture will help the breadcrumbs stick to the chicken.2 large eggs, 1 tablespoon milk or water
- In the third dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese, if using. Panko breadcrumbs are key to achieving that super crispy texture that sets these Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders apart.2 cups panko breadcrumbs, 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Working with one chicken strip at a time, coat it thoroughly in the seasoned flour, shaking off any excess. Then, dip the floured chicken strip into the egg mixture, ensuring it's fully coated. Finally, dredge the wet strip into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture, pressing gently to make sure the breadcrumbs adhere well. Place the breaded chicken tender onto the prepared baking sheet. Repeat this process for all the chicken strips, arranging them in a single layer on the baking sheet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. This allows for even cooking and maximum crispiness.1.5 pounds chicken breasts or thighs, 1 cup all-purpose flour, 2 large eggs, 1 tablespoon milk or water, 2 cups panko breadcrumbs, 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Once all the chicken tenders are breaded, lightly spray them with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over them. This extra bit of fat helps them achieve that golden-brown, crispy finish in the oven.2 tablespoons cooking spray or olive oil
- Place the baking sheets in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping the chicken tenders halfway through the baking time (around the 10-12 minute mark). The chicken tenders are done when they are golden brown, crispy, and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Cooking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your chicken strips and your oven.1.5 pounds chicken breasts or thighs
- Once they are perfectly cooked and crispy, remove the Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders from the oven. Let them rest for a minute or two before serving. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or a creamy ranch dressing.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in oven or toaster oven for best crispiness.