Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
Homemade baked chicken tenders bring comfort to any meal. Whether you’re whipping up a quick dinner on a busy weeknight or planning a family gathering, this recipe hits all the right notes. Coated in a perfectly seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked to golden perfection, these tenders are a healthier twist on fried favorites. Plus, they’re a crowd-pleaser! Kids and adults alike love the crispy texture and savory flavor. Trust me, once you make these once, they’ll become a regular in your household.
Why you’ll love this dish
Why should you try your hand at homemade baked chicken tenders? First, they’re incredibly quick and easy to make! You can sandwich this between your other responsibilities, making it perfect for those busy evenings. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly recipe that gives you a wholesome meal with minimal ingredients. Since it caters well to picky eaters, it’s a fantastic choice for family dinners or kids’ lunchboxes.
"I’m always looking for quick dinners that my kids will actually eat, and these chicken tenders were a hit! They were perfectly crispy, and dipping them in honey mustard was the icing on the cake."
The cooking process explained
Let’s dive into how to whip up these delicious chicken tenders. First, gather your ingredients and prep your kitchen. The process is straightforward: cut the chicken, mix the coating, dip, coat, and bake! You’ll find that from start to finish, you’ll have a dish ready in less than 30 minutes, with most of that time dedicated to baking.
What you’ll need
Here’s a quick list of everything you’ll need to create these mouthwatering chicken tenders:
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil
Don’t have breadcrumbs? You can easily substitute them with crushed cornflakes or panko for an extra crunch.
Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set it to 400°F (200°C).
- Mix the coating: In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Prepare the chicken: Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Coat the chicken: Roll the egg-dipped chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Arrange for baking: Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake: Put in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce of choice!
Best ways to enjoy it
For a delightful presentation, serve these crispy tenders on a platter with a selection of dipping sauces like barbecue, ranch, or honey mustard. Pair them with a fresh side salad, some crispy sweet potato fries, or classic cucumber slices for a balanced meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in some coleslaw for a crunch that complements the tenders perfectly!
Storage and reheating tips
Got leftovers? No problem! Store any extra chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes to regain that delightful crispiness. If you want to keep them longer, these tenders freeze well; just make sure to wrap them tightly before storing them in the freezer.
Helpful cooking tips
- Even Cooking: Aim for even-sized chicken strips for uniform cooking.
- Season Well: Don’t hesitate to tweak the spice levels to match your family’s taste; adding a pinch of cayenne pepper can give it a kick!
- Cool Before Storing: Ensure the chicken tenders are completely cooled before placing them in an airtight container to help maintain their texture.
Recipe variations
Explore different twists on these chicken tenders! Try incorporating different herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh flavor. Want a spicy kick? Mix in some chili powder or hot sauce into the egg wash. For a cheesy touch, sprinkle more Parmesan on top before baking. Gluten-free? Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or oats, and you’re good to go!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare and cook chicken tenders?
The total time is around 30 minutes—10 minutes of preparation and about 20-25 minutes of baking.
Can I substitute chicken breast with another meat?
Definitely! Chicken thighs also work well for a juicier result, or you can try turkey strips for a leaner option.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Let them cool completely, then store your tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
With this easy recipe at your fingertips, you’re equipped to bring crispy, delicious chicken tenders to your table anytime! Enjoy every bite!
Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken strip into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.
- Roll the egg-dipped chicken in the breadcrumb mixture until fully coated.
- Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
- Put in the oven for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through.
- Enjoy warm with your favorite dipping sauce of choice!
