Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are the ultimate comfort food that can make your taste buds dance like nobody’s watching. Picture this: golden-brown, crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, with a flavor explosion that’ll have you asking for seconds—maybe even thirds. You can practically smell them already, can’t you? This delightful dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun game night with friends.
Now let’s get real for a second. I remember the first time I attempted to make chicken tenders in my tiny kitchen. The smoke alarm went off, and I almost set the fire department on speed dial. But when I finally nailed it, my family cheered as if I had just won an Olympic gold medal. Trust me, these Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders will not only impress your guests but also save you from any culinary disasters—unless you forget to preheat the oven.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are incredibly easy to prepare and require minimal cleanup.
- Their flavor profile balances savory spices with a satisfying crunch that everyone will love.
- With their golden color and appealing texture, they look as good as they taste.
- Plus, they’re versatile enough to pair with various dips or serve on their own for any meal or snack.
Ingredients for Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 chicken breasts, cut into strips for ideal dipping size and tenderness.
Panko Bread Crumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs provide extra crunchiness compared to traditional breadcrumbs.
All-Purpose Flour: A light dusting of flour helps the egg wash stick and adds an extra layer of crispness.
Eggs: You’ll need two large eggs; they act as the glue that binds everything together.
Garlic Powder: A must-have seasoning for adding depth of flavor without overpowering the chicken.
Onion Powder: Complementary to garlic powder, it brings a subtle sweetness that enhances the overall taste.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that you can adjust according to your palate.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab a baking sheet and line it with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick cooking spray to make cleanup easier.
Step 2: Cut the Chicken
Take your boneless skinless chicken breasts and slice them into tender-sized strips. Aim for uniform sizes so they’ll cook evenly.
Step 3: Set Up Your Dredging Station
In one bowl, place flour mixed with salt and pepper. In another bowl, beat the eggs until smooth. In a third bowl, combine panko bread crumbs with garlic powder and onion powder.
Step 4: Dredge Away
First, coat each chicken strip in flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip it into the egg wash before rolling it in panko crumbs until fully coated. Place them onto your prepared baking sheet.
Step 5: Bake Until Golden
Bake in your preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through. Flip halfway through for optimal crispiness—you want these tenders looking like they just stepped out of a magazine!
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once they’re done baking, transfer your crispy masterpieces onto plates. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard or ranch dressing for an unforgettable experience.
And there you have it! Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders that are sure to be a hit at any gathering—or even just a cozy night in front of Netflix. Enjoy every crunchy bite!
You Must Know
- This amazing crispy oven baked chicken tenders recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for a family dinner but versatile enough for game day snacks.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it warms, coat the chicken tenders with seasoned breadcrumbs. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for that golden crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize these crispy oven baked chicken tenders! Swap out regular breadcrumbs for panko for an extra crunch, or try different spices like paprika or garlic powder for added flavor. You could even toss in some grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover crispy oven baked chicken tenders, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. For reheating, pop them back in the oven at 375°F (190°C) until heated through to keep that delightful crispness.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use chicken tenders instead of breasts; they cook faster and remain juicy.
- Preheat your baking sheet while the oven warms up; this allows for an instant crisp when the chicken hits it.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each tender space to breathe and crisp up nicely.
Sometimes I make these crispy oven baked chicken tenders so often that my friends joke they’re my secret weapon! They’re always a hit during game nights or casual get-togethers, and everyone begs me for the recipe.
FAQs:
What are Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?
Crispy oven baked chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken tenders. They are made by coating chicken strips in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baking them until golden brown and crispy. This method retains the juicy flavor of the chicken while significantly reducing the amount of oil used, making it a delicious and guilt-free option for family dinners or meal prep.
How can I make my Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders even crispier?
To achieve an extra crispy texture for your crispy oven baked chicken tenders, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. Panko has a lighter, airier texture that creates a crunchier finish. Additionally, consider using a wire rack placed over a baking sheet to allow hot air to circulate around the tenders while baking, enhancing their crispiness.
Can I make Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare crispy oven baked chicken tenders ahead of time. After baking, allow them to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply place them on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven until they are heated through and regain their crispiness.
What sauces pair well with Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders?
Crispy oven baked chicken tenders pair wonderfully with various dipping sauces. Classic choices include honey mustard, barbecue sauce, and ranch dressing. For something spicier, try buffalo sauce or sriracha mayo. These sauces complement the savory flavors of the chicken and add an exciting twist to your meal.
Conclusion for Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders:
In summary, crispy oven baked chicken tenders are a fantastic dish that combines healthiness with great taste. By using simple ingredients like chicken breast and seasoning mixed with breadcrumbs, you can create a delightful meal that everyone will love. These tenders not only offer a satisfying crunch but also provide versatility with various dipping sauces. Whether for dinner or meal prep, these tender bites are sure to impress!
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders
Crispy Oven Baked Chicken Tenders are a deliciously satisfying dish that brings the crunch of fried chicken without the guilt. These golden-brown tenders are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a lively game night. With juicy chicken coated in savory spices and crunchy panko breadcrumbs, they’re bound to be a hit with everyone. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an unforgettable treat!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups panko bread crumbs
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut chicken breasts into even strips for consistent cooking.
- Set up a dredging station: Place flour mixed with salt and pepper in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and panko combined with garlic and onion powder in a third bowl.
- Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip it into the egg wash, then roll it in panko breadcrumbs until fully coated.
- Arrange coated strips on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders (120g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: - For extra crunch, preheat your baking sheet before placing the chicken tenders on it. - Customize by adding spices like paprika or grated cheese to the breadcrumb mixture for added flavor.
