Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders
Making Chicken Tenders in the oven is quick, easy, and effortless. These are the top reasons why we think you're going to like it:
- the chicken tenders are crunchy and golden-brown outside
- the interior is juicy and tender
- this is a wonderful family meal during the week
- great for picnics and celebrations
- beginner-friendly
- quick preparation (less than 30 minutes)
- healthier than deep-frying
How to make baked chicken tenders at home
These baked chicken tenders are the perfect recipe to make during a hectic week. They don't take a lot of effort, and they are pretty hands-off since most of the work will be done by your oven. You can find the whole list of ingredients below; here is a quick overview for easier preparation.
- Grab three deep plates and prepare the coating (flour, egg mixture, and breadcrumb mixture).
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Coat the meat in flour, egg, and breadcrumbs mixture separately.
- Place the chicken onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake in the oven for 14 - 16 minutes.
- Serve with your favorite side.
Why do you use panko breadcrumbs? We use panko breadcrumbs instead of homemade breadcrumbs or fine breadcrumbs in this recipe. The reason is that panko breadcrumbs create a more crispy and golden exterior that adds so much texture and flavor.
What to serve with crispy chicken tenders
These chicken tenders are great for lunch or dinner. You can add them to salads, sandwiches, wraps, burgers, or serve as a main dish with any of these sides and sauces:
- Roast Potatoes with Paprika
- Best Mashed Potatoes
- Creamiest Mashed Cauliflower
- Baked Potato Wedges with Yogurt Dip
- Fried Potatoes
- Ranch Dressing
- Homemade Mayo
- Cocktail Sauce
Storing
It's best to serve these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders immediately. However, feel free to store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Serve cold in salads, or reheat in your microwave or oven. Serve with your favorite side.
Make these chicken tender in your own kitchen (video)
Check this quick tutorial to see how we made Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders at home.
Try these wonderful chicken recipes too
- Roasted Half Chicken
- Oven-Baked Chicken Thighs with Carrots
- Chicken Black Rice with Beans
- Sweet and Sour Chicken with Pineapple
- Greek Chicken Gyros
- Smoked Paprika Chicken Wings
- Sticky Chicken Wings
- Grilled Lemon Chicken Breast
METHOD
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preparation
Arrange the rack one position higher than the middle of the oven, then preheat the fan-assisted oven to 230 °C / 445 °F or the conventional oven to 240 °C / 465 °F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, then place a wire rack on top. Spray the wire rack with cooking oil or gently brush with oil using a kitchen brush.
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optional (for more crispiness)
Place a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat. Add the panko breadcrumbs and pan-fry for 5 minutes or until golden-brown. Stir from time to time.
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coat the meat
Place the panko breadcrumbs (cooled) into a large deep plate. Add the paprika powder, garlic powder, oil, and grated parmesan cheese. In a separate deep plate, whisk together an egg and milk. Add the flour to the third plate. Place the chicken tender into a bowl and season with salt and pepper. Coat the chicken tenders. Working one at a time, coat each tender in the flour, then dip into the egg mixture, and lastly coat in the breadcrumb mixture. Shake off excess. Transfer the chicken to the prepared baking sheet and repeat with the remaining pieces.
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bake in the oven
Place the baking sheet with the chicken into the preheated oven. Bake for 14 - 16 minutes. Using kitchen thongs, flip the chicken once halfway through baking. When the chicken tenders are crispy and golden brown, remove them from the oven and sprinkle with sea salt right before serving.
