Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders offer all the satisfying crunch and flavor of fried chicken without the extra oil. These golden, oven-baked strips are coated with a seasoned crust that locks in juiciness and delivers a tender bite every time. Ideal for both adults and children, they’re a reliable and wholesome option for lunch, dinner, or even game-day snacks.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These chicken tenders strike the perfect balance between indulgence and health. They’re oven-baked—not fried—yet still deliver a deliciously crunchy texture. With simple pantry ingredients, minimal prep, and easy cleanup, this recipe will become a weeknight favorite. Plus, they’re endlessly versatile, pairing well with dips, wraps, and side dishes.
ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken tenderloins or boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- Eggs
- All-purpose flour
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Parmesan cheese, grated (optional for extra crispness)
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
- Optional dips: ketchup, honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ sauce
directions
- Preheat and prepare
• Preheat oven to 220 °C (425 °F).
• Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place a wire rack on top (optional for extra crispness). - Prepare breading stations
• In one bowl: mix flour with a pinch of salt and pepper.
• In another: beat the eggs.
• In a third: combine panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, and optional Parmesan. - Bread the chicken
• Dredge each chicken strip in flour, then dip in egg, and coat thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
• Place on the prepared baking rack or sheet. - Bake
• Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with olive oil or cooking spray.
• Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 75 °C (165 °F). - Serve hot
• Let cool slightly, then serve with your favorite dipping sauces.
Servings and timing
Makes approximately 4 servings. Total time is 35 minutes: 15 minutes prep, 20 minutes baking.
Variations
- Spicy tenders: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the breadcrumb mix.
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs.
- Buttermilk marinade: Marinate the chicken in buttermilk and spices for 30 minutes to enhance tenderness.
- Air fryer method: Cook at 200 °C (400 °F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispness—avoid the microwave to prevent sogginess. These chicken tenders can also be frozen and reheated straight from the freezer.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and remain juicy.
Do I have to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko gives the crispiest result, but regular breadcrumbs can be used in a pinch.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, bread the chicken and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
How do I keep the coating from falling off?
Ensure each step (flour, egg, breadcrumbs) is thorough, and press the coating gently onto the chicken.
What dipping sauces go best with these tenders?
Honey mustard, ranch, garlic aioli, or spicy sriracha mayo are all excellent choices.
How do I make them extra crispy?
Use a wire rack and spray generously with oil before baking.
Can I freeze cooked chicken tenders?
Yes, cool completely and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Absolutely—kids love them, and they can be paired with a variety of sides and dips.
Can I add herbs to the breadcrumb mixture?
Yes, dried oregano, parsley, or thyme add extra flavor.
What sides pair well with chicken tenders?
Serve with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, fries, or a fresh garden salad.
Conclusion
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are the perfect alternative to traditional fried options—offering crunch, flavor, and convenience. Whether served with a favorite dip or tucked into wraps or sandwiches, they’re guaranteed to please. Make a big batch and enjoy a family-friendly classic that never goes out of style.
PrintCrispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are oven-baked strips of juicy chicken with a golden, seasoned crust, offering the satisfying crunch of fried chicken in a healthier, mess-free form.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray or cooking spray
- Optional dips: ketchup, honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 220 °C (425 °F). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil and set a wire rack on top.
- Set up breading stations: mix flour with salt and pepper; beat eggs in a second bowl; combine panko, garlic powder, paprika, and Parmesan in a third.
- Dredge chicken in flour, dip in egg, then coat in breadcrumb mixture. Place on the baking rack or sheet.
- Spray tops of tenders with olive oil or cooking spray.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and internal temp is 75 °C (165 °F).
- Let cool slightly and serve hot with dipping sauces.
Notes
- Add cayenne or chili flakes for spicy tenders.
- Use gluten-free flour and breadcrumbs if needed.
- Marinate in buttermilk for extra tender chicken.
- Cook in air fryer at 200 °C (400 °F) for 10–12 minutes, flipping once.
- Reheat in oven or air fryer to maintain crispness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 125mg