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Easy • Chicken

Oven Baked Crispy Chicken Tenders

These homemade chicken tenders are perfectly crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, without any frying.

Prep
15 min
Cook
20 min
Servings
4
Level
Easy
Oven Baked Crispy Chicken Tenders

Forget the drive-thru! These Oven Baked Crispy Chicken Tenders are a homemade dream come true. They're incredibly easy to make, healthier than fried, and guaranteed to be a hit with both kids and adults. Get ready for a new family favorite!

Ingredients

Yield: 4 servings

Main

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders
  • 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a kick)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tbsp milk or water
  • 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Cooking spray or 2 tbsp olive oil

Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil and place an oven-safe wire rack on top. Lightly spray the rack with cooking spray.

  2. Step 2

    Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

  3. Step 3

    Set up a dredging station: In a shallow dish, combine flour, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne (if using). In a second shallow dish, whisk the egg and milk/water. In a third shallow dish, combine panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.

  4. Step 4

    Dredge each chicken tender: first in the flour mixture (shake off excess), then dip into the egg mixture (let excess drip off), and finally press firmly into the panko mixture to fully coat. Place coated tenders on the prepared wire rack.

  5. Step 5

    Lightly spray the tops of the coated chicken tenders with cooking spray (or drizzle with a little olive oil). This helps them get extra crispy.

  6. Step 6

    Bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the chicken is golden brown, crispy, and cooked through (internal temperature reaches 165°F / 74°C). Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces!

Tips

  • Don't skip the wire rack! It allows air to circulate around the chicken for maximum crispiness.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the flour mixture.
  • These tenders are great for meal prep – cook them ahead and reheat gently in the oven or air fryer.

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