Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
Deliciously crispy and flavorful homemade baked chicken tenders, coated with a crunchy panko and Parmesan crust, seasoned with garlic and paprika. This healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders is easy to prepare, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty snack.
- Author: Windy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Chicken Tenders
- 1 pound chicken tenderloins
Breading Mixture
- 1 cup panko bread crumbs
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons milk
For Baking
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
- Prepare Breading Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine panko bread crumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Mix Egg Wash: In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until fully blended and smooth.
- Prepare Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with cooking spray or olive oil spray to prevent sticking.
- Coat Chicken Tenders: Dip each chicken tenderloin first into the egg wash, allowing any excess to drip off, then press it firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat all sides evenly.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray to help achieve a golden crisp.
- Bake to Crisp Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through cooking to ensure they brown evenly and are cooked through. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Notes
- Use chicken tenderloins for uniform cooking; chicken breasts can be cut into strips as a substitute.
- For extra crunch, double coat by dipping again into egg wash and breadcrumbs.
- Adjust seasoning in the breading mixture based on your taste preferences.
- If you prefer, use almond milk or any other milk alternative.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces such as honey mustard, ranch, or barbecue sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 ounces (about 2-3 tenders)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 4 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 135 mg
Keywords: baked chicken tenders, crispy chicken tenders, homemade chicken tenders, healthy chicken recipe, baked chicken strips, parmesan chicken tenders