Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders: The Ultimate Guide to Perfect Snacks 🍗✨

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a healthier yet equally delicious alternative to fried chicken tenders, look no further. baked chicken tenders are the answer to your snack dilemmas, offering crispy, flavorful bites with less oil and mess. These crispy chicken tenders are not only perfect for a quick snack but also make a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re preparing a fun family dinner or a protein-packed lunch, these homemade chicken tenders are a game-changer. Read on to discover how to make the most satisfying baked chicken strips that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

2. Ingredients for Delicious Baked Chicken Tenders

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 2 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or cooking spray

3. How to Make Perfect Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare the coating mixture

In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to create a flavorful crust for your baked chicken tenders.

Step 2: Beat the eggs

In another bowl, whisk the eggs until well combined. This will help the coating adhere to the chicken strips.

Step 3: Coat the chicken strips

Dip each piece of chicken into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, then roll it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 4: Prepare for baking

Spray the coated chicken tenders lightly with Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 or your favorite oil spray. This will help achieve that crispy exterior.

Step 5: Bake to crispy perfection

Place the baking sheet in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the crispy chicken tenders are golden brown and cooked through.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Baked Chicken Tenders

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10 minutes or in an air fryer for a few minutes to regain their crispiness.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Baked Chicken Strips

Serve your baked chicken tenders with a variety of dips such as honey mustard, ranch, or spicy buffalo sauce. Pair them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a complete and satisfying meal.

6. Frequently Asked Questions about Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders

Can I make homemade chicken tenders healthier?

Absolutely! Using whole wheat panko or reducing the amount of cheese and oil can make your tenders lighter without sacrificing crunch.

What are some substitutions for ingredients?

You can substitute Parmesan cheese with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option or use crushed cornflakes instead of panko for extra crunch.

How long does it take to prepare?

The entire process—from coating to baking—takes about 35 minutes, making it a quick and easy snack or meal.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Ninja Air Fryer Pro Crisp & Roast 4-in-1 – Perfect for achieving extra crunch without deep-frying, this versatile air fryer makes your baked chicken tenders irresistibly crispy.
• CAROTE Premium 16pc Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures easy cleanup when cooking multiple batches of tenders.
• Fullstar Ultimate Veggie Prep Master – Streamlines prepping the chicken and vegetables, making cooking faster and more efficient.

8. Additional Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Tenders

• Ensure chicken pieces are uniform in thickness for even cooking.
• Experiment with spices like cumin, cayenne, or lemon zest to customize flavor.
• For an extra crispy coating, double coat the chicken by dipping in eggs and breadcrumb mixture twice.

9. Conclusion

Making baked chicken tenders at home is a foolproof way to enjoy a crispy chicken tenders snack without the guilt of frying. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have golden, crunchy, and flavorful homemade chicken tenders ready in no time. Plus, their versatility makes them perfect for any meal or snack time. Try this recipe today and impress your friends and family with the best baked chicken strips you’ve ever made!

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