Crispy Baked Chicken Breast Tenders

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Rest Time 5 mins
Total Time 40 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: , ,
Cooking Temp: 200  C
Servings: 4
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

Enjoy these crispy, juicy, and flavorful baked chicken tenders—a healthier alternative to fried versions! These golden-brown tenders are coated with a deliciously seasoned breadcrumb mixture, baked to perfection, and perfect for dipping. Quick, easy, and kid-friendly, they make for an excellent snack, appetizer, or main dish.

Ingredients
    For the Chicken:
  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp paprika
  • 0.5 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp onion powder
    • For the Coating:
  • 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (for extra crispiness)
  • 0.5 cup regular breadcrumbs
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
    • For the Wet Batter:
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 0.25 cup milk (or buttermilk for extra tenderness)
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
    • Optional Garnish:
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (for extra spice)
Instructions
    Preheat and Prepare
  1. 1
    Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top (this helps air circulate around the tenders for an even crispiness). Lightly spray with cooking spray.
    2. Season the Chicken
  2. 2
    Pat dry the chicken strips using paper towels. Season them with salt, black pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder, ensuring even coverage.
    3. Prepare the Coating
  3. 3
    In a shallow dish, mix panko breadcrumbs, regular breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning.
    4. Make the Wet Batter
  4. 4
    In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and flour until smooth.
    5. Coat the Chicken
  5. 5
    Dip each chicken strip into the wet batter, ensuring it is fully coated, then roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking rack.
    6. Bake to Perfection
  6. 6
    Lightly spray the coated chicken tenders with cooking spray. Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).
    7. Rest and Serve
  7. 7
    Let the tenders rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Note
  • Air Fryer Option: Cook at 200°C (400°F) for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze uncooked breaded tenders for up to 3 months. Bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 5-7 minutes to cooking time.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour.
Keywords: crispy, healthy, kid-friendly, easy, high-protein
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/crispy-baked-chicken-breast-tenders/