Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. This recipe creates golden, crunchy chicken strips with a flavorful seasoned coating while baking them in the oven instead of frying. The result is crispy chicken tenders that are juicy inside and perfectly crisp outside. Many families love baked chicken tenders because they are simple to prepare and require only a few ingredients. These crispy oven baked chicken tenders are perfect for weeknight dinners, kid-friendly meals, party appetizers, or game day snacks. With a simple breading process and a quick baking time, this recipe delivers restaurant-quality chicken tenders straight from your oven.
Ingredients for Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
This recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to create a crispy breaded coating.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken tenders | 1 lb | Fresh or thawed |
| All purpose flour | 1 cup | Breading |
| Eggs | 2 large | Egg wash |
| Milk | 2 tablespoons | For egg wash |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup | Panko or regular |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon | Flavor |
| Paprika | 1 teaspoon | Color and flavor |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Black pepper | ½ teaspoon | Seasoning |
| Cooking spray | As needed | Helps crisp coating |
Why Baking Works for Chicken Tenders
Baking chicken tenders allows the coating to become crispy without using large amounts of oil.
Ingredient Tips
Panko breadcrumbs create the crispiest texture, but regular breadcrumbs work well too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Breading Stations
Place flour in the first bowl.
Whisk eggs and milk in the second bowl.
Combine breadcrumbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in the third bowl.
3. Coat the Chicken
Dredge each chicken tender in flour and shake off the excess.
4. Dip in Egg Wash
Dip the chicken into the egg mixture until fully coated.
5. Coat with Breadcrumbs
Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture until evenly coated.
6. Arrange on Baking Sheet
Place breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Spray with Cooking Spray
Lightly spray the tops of the tenders to help them crisp.
8. Bake the Chicken
Bake for 18–20 minutes, turning halfway through.
9. Check for Doneness
The chicken should be golden brown and cooked through.
10. Serve
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Helpful Cooking Tips
• Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crispiness.
• Do not overcrowd the baking sheet.
• Flip the tenders halfway through baking.
• Spray lightly with oil to achieve a crispy coating.
• Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Serving, Storing, and Making Ahead
Serving Ideas
Serve chicken tenders with ketchup, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or barbecue sauce.
Storage
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
Freezing
Freeze cooked chicken tenders for up to two months.
Conclusion
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a simple and flavorful recipe that delivers crunchy breaded chicken without frying. With minimal ingredients and quick cooking time, they are perfect for busy weeknights or family meals. These homemade chicken tenders are guaranteed to become a favorite.
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Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders – Easy Homemade Chicken Tenders
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Crispy oven baked chicken tenders coated in seasoned breadcrumbs and baked until golden brown. A healthier homemade version of classic breaded chicken tenders perfect for dinner or snacks.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken tenders
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons milk
1 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cooking spray
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. Prepare three breading stations. In the first bowl add flour.
3. In the second bowl whisk together eggs and milk until smooth.
4. In the third bowl combine breadcrumbs garlic powder paprika salt and pepper.
5. Dredge each chicken tender in the flour shaking off excess.
6. Dip the floured chicken into the egg mixture until fully coated.
7. Press the chicken into the breadcrumb mixture coating evenly on all sides.
8. Place breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help the coating crisp.
10. Bake for 18 to 20 minutes turning the tenders halfway through cooking.
11. Remove from oven once golden brown and cooked through.
12. Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.
Notes
Panko breadcrumbs produce the crispiest texture.
Flip the chicken halfway through baking for even browning.
Make sure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serve with ranch honey mustard ketchup or barbecue sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chicken tenders be baked instead of fried?
Yes, baking creates a crispy coating while using less oil.
What breadcrumbs are best for chicken tenders?
Panko breadcrumbs provide the crispiest texture.
How long should chicken tenders bake?
Bake for about 18–20 minutes at 400°F.
How do you keep baked chicken tenders crispy?
Use cooking spray and avoid overcrowding the baking sheet.