Go Back
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

A simple and healthy recipe for baked chicken tenders that delivers a juicy interior with a shatteringly crisp, golden-brown crust without deep-frying. This easy weeknight meal uses a flavorful combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying crunch everyone will love. It's a reliable comfort food solution that's both delicious and easy to prepare.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 375
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients
  • 1 lb chicken tenderloins or chicken breasts cut into 1-inch thick strips
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • Olive Oil Spray

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • wire rack
  • Shallow dishes
  • Air fryer (optional)

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Prep Your Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a wire rack on top of a baking sheet and lightly spray it with olive oil. The rack allows air to circulate, crisping the tenders on all sides.
  2. Set Up the Breading Stations: In a shallow dish, beat the two eggs. In a second shallow dish, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper until evenly distributed.
  3. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel to help the coating stick better. Lightly season the chicken with extra salt and pepper if desired.
  4. Bread the Chicken: Working with one tender at a time, dip it into the beaten egg, allowing any excess to drip off. Then, press it firmly into the panko mixture, ensuring all sides are completely coated.
  5. Arrange on the Baking Sheet: Place each breaded chicken tender onto the prepared wire rack, leaving a little space between each one to prevent steaming.
  6. Bake to Golden Perfection: Lightly spray the tops of the chicken tenders with olive oil spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is crispy and golden.
  7. Serve and Enjoy: Let the tenders cool for a minute or two before serving with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch.

Notes

For the best results, use a wire rack to ensure crispiness on all sides and use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter, crunchier texture. Avoid overbaking by checking the chicken at the 15-minute mark. For variations, add cayenne for a spicy kick, smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, or use gluten-free panko and omit cheese for dietary adjustments. This recipe also works well in an air fryer at 380°F (193°C) for 10-12 minutes.