Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

why make this recipe

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken. They are easy to make and perfect for both kids and adults. With a crispy coating and juicy inside, these tenders are great for a quick dinner or a fun snack. Plus, you can customize the spices to match your taste!

how to make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or oil

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the chicken breasts into strips.
3. Set up a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
4. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spray the tenders with cooking spray or lightly drizzle with oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
8. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

how to serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Serve your chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces like ketchup, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. They are perfect for family meals or gatherings. Pair them with sides like fries, salad, or veggies for a complete meal.

how to store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

To store leftovers, let the tenders cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again.

tips to make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

• For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy flavor.
• Marinate the chicken strips in buttermilk for a few hours before breading for more tenderness.

variation

You can change up the spices to your liking. Try adding cayenne pepper for heat or Italian herbs for a different flavor. You can also experiment with different breading options, such as using crushed cornflakes or oats.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?

   • Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before preparing the tenders.

2. Can I air fry these chicken tenders?

   • Absolutely! Air frying them can give you an even crispier result. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes.

3. What can I use as a substitute for breadcrumbs?

   • You can use crushed crackers, oats, or even ground nuts for a different texture and flavor.

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

A healthier alternative to fried chicken, these baked chicken tenders are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, perfect for kids and adults alike.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Main Course, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 300

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast
• 1 cup breadcrumbs Use panko for extra crunch.
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 large eggs Beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• to taste Salt and pepper
• Cooking spray or oil For greasing

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the chicken breasts into strips.
3. Set up a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.

Breading and Baking

1. Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
2. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spray the tenders with cooking spray or lightly drizzle with oil.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Serving

1. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

To store leftovers, let the tenders cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven for about 10 minutes to get them crispy again. For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs, or add some grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy flavor.