If you have been searching for a delightful crowd-pleaser that combines juiciness with a satisfyingly crunchy bite, then you are going to love this Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe. It transforms simple chicken tenders into a golden, flavorful masterpiece by using a perfectly seasoned, oven-toasted panko crust that guarantees every bite is packed with crispy goodness. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or a fun snack, this recipe turns ordinary chicken tenders into something extraordinary without the mess of frying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of raw chicken strips placed in a rectangular white tray lined with white paper in the center. On the left are two small white bowls, one containing white flour and the other divided into four sections with red, black, white, and beige spices. On the right, a larger white bowl is filled with light yellow breadcrumbs, and below it is a small white bowl holding two brown eggs. All items sit on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from creating the crisp texture to layering in the smoky, savory flavors that make every bite irresistible.

1 ½ lb chicken tenders: The star of the dish, tender and quick-cooking for perfect results.
1 ½ cup panko breadcrumbs: Provides the signature crunch and a light, airy coating.
Cooking spray: Helps achieve even crispiness and beautiful browning without excess oil.
¼ cup all-purpose flour: Essential for the first coating to help the egg mixture stick.
2 eggs: Acts as the glue to bind the breading to the chicken perfectly.
2 tablespoons water: Lightens the egg wash, making the coating process smooth and even.
1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a mild, aromatic punch that elevates the flavor.
1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a warm, smoky depth with a beautiful reddish hue.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the chicken and breading.
1 teaspoon ground black pepper: Brings a subtle spicy kick for balance.
Chopped parsley (to garnish): Fresh, vibrant green finish to brighten the presentation and flavor.

How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by warming your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper. This setup sets the stage for your perfect golden tenders and makes clean-up a dream.

Step 2: Dry Your Chicken Tenders

Patting the chicken tenders dry is key. Removing excess moisture ensures the breading will stick well and crisp up beautifully in the oven. Set them aside as you get the crumbs ready.

Step 3: Roast the Panko Breadcrumbs

Place a light spray of cooking oil on your baking sheet, then spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly. Roast them in the oven for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they turn golden and toasted. This extra step boosts crunch and adds a toasty flavor that’s hard to beat.

Step 4: Set Up Your Breading Station

Create three bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and water, and one with the roasted breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Organizing this way keeps the process smooth and helps each tender get coated evenly with all the flavorful layers.

Step 5: Coat the Chicken

Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour. This light dusting is vital to give the egg wash something to cling to. Then dip the tender into the egg mixture, followed by a thorough coating in the seasoned panko breadcrumbs. This triple-step ensures the coating stays crunchy and flavorful after baking.

Step 6: Bake Your Tenders

Arrange the breaded tenders evenly on the parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake them for 18 to 20 minutes until they are cooked through and the crust is golden and crisp. Keep an eye on them near the end so they don’t overcook — juicy inside and crunchy outside is the goal.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once baked, sprinkle the tenders with fresh chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. Your Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is now ready to be enjoyed!

How to Serve Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe

Two side-by-side images show a metal baking tray lined with parchment paper on a white marbled surface. Both trays hold ten pieces of breaded chicken strips arranged in three rows. The left tray shows raw chicken strips, coated with a bright orange crumb layer that looks rough and crunchy. The right tray has the same pieces after baking, now showing deeper golden-orange colors with some darker toasted spots adding texture. The crumb on the cooked pieces looks crispy and slightly cracked, with some small crumbs scattered on the paper. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A handful of fresh chopped parsley brightens the dish visually and adds a refreshing herby note. You can also try a squeeze of lemon or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for extra flair.

Side Dishes

These chicken tenders pair beautifully with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, crispy fries, or a fresh mixed green salad. For something lighter, grilled vegetables or a tangy cucumber salad balance out the crunchy richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your tenders on a platter with an array of dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, and spicy sriracha mayo. Or make fun slider sandwiches by adding tenders to mini buns with pickles and lettuce – a guaranteed party hit!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain their flavor and texture for quick, tasty meals later.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked tenders by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transferring them to a freezer bag once solid. Frozen tenders last about 1 month and are perfect for future quick snacks or meals.

Reheating

To revive the crispiness, reheat chicken tenders in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-12 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that irresistible crunch intact.

FAQs

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of panko?

While regular breadcrumbs work, panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their light, airy texture that crisps up better in the oven, creating that signature crunch in this Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe.

Is it necessary to roast the panko breadcrumbs before coating?

Roasting the panko adds an extra layer of golden color and nuttiness that enhances the overall texture and flavor. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference but can be skipped in a pinch.

How do I know when chicken tenders are fully cooked?

Chicken tenders are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit and the juices run clear. The exterior should be golden and crispy as a visual cue.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs to keep the texture and flavor intact while making it safe for gluten sensitivities.

What dipping sauces go best with these chicken tenders?

Classic choices include honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or a spicy sriracha mayo. Experiment with your favorite flavors to make these tenders even more exciting!

Final Thoughts

This Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe is truly one of those easy, reliable dishes that everyone loves and that you will want to make again and again. With its perfectly crispy exterior and juicy, flavorful interior, it’s a winner for family meals and casual get-togethers alike. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy every crunchy, tender bite!