Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
These crispy oven-baked chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken, featuring a golden roasted panko breadcrumb coating infused with garlic, paprika, and spices. Perfectly tender on the inside and crunchily satisfying on the outside, this easy recipe is ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or tasty appetizer.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 ½ lb chicken tenders
Breading
- 1 ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
Other
- Cooking spray
- Chopped parsley (to garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare baking sheet: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside to facilitate easy cleanup and prevent sticking.
- Pat dry chicken tenders: Use paper towels to pat the chicken tenders dry; this helps the coating adhere better and ensures crispiness.
- Roast panko breadcrumbs: Lightly spray the prepared baking sheet with cooking oil, then spread the panko breadcrumbs evenly over it. Roast in the oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden brown. Remove and set aside to cool slightly.
- Set up breading station: Arrange three bowls: one with the all-purpose flour, the second with whisked eggs and water combined, and the third with the roasted panko breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Coat chicken tenders: Dredge each chicken tender first in flour, shaking off any excess, then dip into the egg mixture, and finally coat thoroughly with the seasoned panko breadcrumb mixture.
- Bake the tenders: Place the breaded chicken tenders onto the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the coating turns golden and crispy.
- Garnish and serve: Once cooked, garnish the chicken tenders with chopped parsley and serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- To ensure even cooking, do not overcrowd the baking sheet—leave space between each chicken tender.
- For extra crispiness, you may flip the tenders halfway through baking.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Roasting the panko breadcrumbs beforehand gives them a richer, nuttier flavor and crispier texture.
- This recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings.
