Golden Crispy Chicken Tenders: Effortless Family Delight

Golden Crispy Chicken Tenders: Effortless Family Delight 🍗✨🍽️

1. Introduction

Are you craving a delicious, crispy chicken tenders recipe that’s both easy to prepare and loved by everyone in the family? Look no further! Our baked chicken tenders recipe offers a guilt-free way to enjoy golden, crunchy goodness without frying. Perfect forweeknight dinners, game days, or any time you want to serve a satisfying meal, this homemade chicken tenders dish combines tender chicken with a crisp coating that everyone will rave about. Discover how to make this crispy chicken tenders at home, ensuring they’re packed with flavor and cooked to perfection.

2. Ingredients for Perfect Baked Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 ½ cups panko bread crumbs
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra flavor)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil spray

For added flavor, consider using flavor-packed seasonings.

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Crispy Chicken Tenders

Preparing the Chicken

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels to ensure a crispy coating. Season them lightly with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.

Setting Up Your Breading Station

Arrange three shallow bowls: one with flour, the second with beaten eggs, and the third with panko bread crumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and spices. This setup helps create an even coating for each tender.

Breading the Chicken Tenders

Dip each chicken strip first into the flour, shaking off excess. Then, coat it in the beaten eggs, and finally press into the panko mixture, ensuring an even, crispy layer. For extra crispiness, lightly spray the coated tenders with cooking spray before baking.

Baking to Golden Perfection

Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tenders are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Flip halfway through for even crispiness.

4. How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

To keep your homemade chicken tenders crispy, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the Ninja Air Fryer or in a hot oven for best results, retaining that crunchy exterior.

5. Serving Suggestions for Crispy Chicken Tenders

Serve your crispy chicken tenders with a variety of dips like honey mustard, ranch, or blue cheese sauce. Pair with crispy fries, fresh salads, or steamed veggies for a complete meal. For a cheesy twist, try our cheesy chicken burrito bake as a fun side or main dish.

6. Tips and Tricks for Perfect How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders

• Use panko bread crumbs for maximum crunch.
• For gluten-free options, swap all-purpose flour with rice flour or cornstarch.
• Spraying the tenders with cooking spray before baking enhances crispiness without frying.
• Ensure the oven is preheated for even cooking and crispy coating.

7. Frequently Asked Questions about Baked Chicken Tenders

Can I make these with chicken breasts or thighs?

Yes! Both chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts are leaner. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Can I freeze the raw or cooked chicken tenders?

You can freeze raw breaded tenders before baking for up to 3 months. Cooked leftovers can be frozen for 2-3 months, ideal for quick meals.

Are baked chicken tenders healthier than fried?

Absolutely! Baking reduces fat content while still delivering a crispy texture, making them a healthier alternative to fried.

How long does it take to cook homemade chicken tenders?

Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and baking requires approximately 20-25 minutes, totaling around 40 minutes including prep time.

8. Kitchen Tools That You Might Need for This Recipe

• Ninja SLUSHi Pro RapidChill Drink Maker — Ideal for quick hydration post-meal or prepping drinks for family gatherings, enhancing your overall cooking experience.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master — Make quick work of slicing chicken or preparing side veggies for a balanced meal.
• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 — For an even crispier finish, this tool can be used to reheat leftovers or make the tenders with a fried-like texture without oil.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set — Nonstick pans make flipping and baking easier and cleanup a breeze.

9. Conclusion

Enjoying baked chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside has never been easier! This homemade chicken tenders recipe offers a healthier alternative to fried versions while maintaining maximum flavor and crunch. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner, a snack, or a party platter, these crispy chicken tenders are sure to impress your family and friends. Give it a try, and don’t forget to customize the spices to suit your taste. Happy cooking!

Print