Crispy Baked Breaded Chicken Tenders Recipe
Golden, crispy chicken tenders baked to perfection without the mess of deep frying. Seasoned breadcrumbs create a flavorful coating that rivals any restaurant version, while baking keeps them lighter and healthier. Perfect for family dinners, game day gatherings, or whenever you crave comfort food with a wholesome twist. Kids and adults alike will love the satisfying crunch and tender, juicy interior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 400°F
- 2
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it
- 3
Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with bread crumbs mixed with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper
- 4
Dredge each chicken tender in flour, shaking off any excess
- 5
Dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs, ensuring it's well-coated
- 6
Roll the chicken in the bread crumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere
- 7
Place the breaded chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet
- 8
Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil for extra crispiness
- 9
Bake for 20-25 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through
- 10
Let the tenders cool for a few minutes before serving
Tips
Press breadcrumbs firmly onto chicken for better adhesion and crispier coating
Flip tenders halfway through baking to ensure even browning on both sides
Let tenders rest 3-5 minutes after baking to retain juices and prevent drying
Good to Know
Refrigerate cooked tenders up to 3 days in airtight container
Bread tenders up to 4 hours ahead, refrigerate on baking sheet
Serve warm with ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce
Common Mistakes
Don't skip oil spray or tenders will be dry and pale
Press breadcrumbs firmly to prevent coating from falling off during baking
Avoid overcrowding pan or tenders won't crisp properly
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
Gluten-Free Swaps
FAQ
Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Thaw completely and pat dry before breading to prevent soggy coating and ensure even cooking.
What if I don't have Panko breadcrumbs?
Regular breadcrumbs work fine, or make your own by processing stale bread in a food processor.
How long do these keep in the refrigerator?
Store cooked tenders up to 3 days refrigerated. Reheat in 350°F oven for best texture.