Description
These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier, oven-baked alternative to fried chicken strips, featuring a crunchy panko and Parmesan coating seasoned with garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder. Perfectly juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside, they make an easy and delicious meal or snack for the whole family.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders, cut into strips
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Others
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Olive oil spray for coating
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: If using chicken breasts, cut them into 1-inch wide strips. If using chicken tenders, keep them whole.
- Prepare the Breading Stations: Beat the eggs in one bowl until smooth. In another bowl, mix together the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Season the Chicken: Lightly season the chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper to enhance flavor.
- Bread the Chicken: Dip each chicken strip first into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off. Then coat thoroughly with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs adhere well. For extra crunch, repeat the egg and breadcrumb dipping for a double coating.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. If available, place a wire rack on top to promote air circulation which helps achieve a crispier texture.
- Arrange the Chicken: Place the breaded chicken tenders on the baking sheet or wire rack, spacing them evenly to allow for even baking.
- Bake the Chicken Tenders: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the chicken tenders with olive oil spray to help create a golden, crispy exterior. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even cooking. Confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Serve and Enjoy: Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, BBQ, or ranch dressing.
Notes
- Double coating the chicken in egg and breadcrumbs makes the tenders extra crunchy.
- If a wire rack is not available, place the tenders directly on parchment-lined baking sheet but flip carefully to avoid sogginess.
- Ensure chicken is cooked thoroughly by checking internal temperature with a meat thermometer.
- Parmesan cheese is optional but adds a nice savory flavor to the breading.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko crumbs.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 4 oz chicken)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
