Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

There’s something truly delightful about homemade baked chicken tenders, and this recipe captures all the magic in every crunchy bite. Juicy, tender chicken enveloped in a crisp, flavorful coating is comfort food at its finest. Perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even game day snacking, these tenders are not only simple to make but also a hit with both kids and adults alike. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces, and watch as they disappear in no time.

What makes this dish so special is the perfect blend of spices and the crispy coating created by the combination of parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs. It’s a guilt-free alternative to frying that doesn’t compromise on flavor or texture. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight meal or a fun get-together, these chicken tenders will have everyone asking for seconds!

This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Prepare your ingredients and get ready to bake delicious chicken tenders.

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Place the flour in another shallow bowl and pour the beaten eggs into a third bowl.
4. Take each chicken tender and dredge it in flour, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dip it in the beaten eggs, and finally, coat it with the breadcrumb mixture.
5. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each piece.
6. Lightly spray the tenders with cooking spray or drizzle a little olive oil over them for extra crispiness.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the outside is golden brown.

Tips & Variations

• Ingredient Substitutions: If you’re out of breadcrumbs, crushed cornflakes or panko can be great alternatives. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and ensure the chicken broth is gluten-free.
• Optional Variations: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for some heat or try different spices like Italian seasoning or curry powder for a unique twist.
• Storage or Reheating Tips: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until heated through to retain crispiness.

Recipe Information

• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 25 minutes
• Total time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Difficulty level: Easy