Are you craving a tasty snack that’s both easy to make and super crispy? Look no further! In this guide, I’ll take you through my favorite recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders. Packed with flavor and the perfect crunch, these tenders will satisfy your hunger without the guilt. Let’s dive into the simple ingredients and easy steps that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds happy!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Cooking spray
To make crispy baked chicken tenders, gather your ingredients first. Use fresh chicken breast for the best taste. Panko breadcrumbs give a great crunch. Parmesan cheese adds flavor and helps the coating stick. Garlic powder and paprika bring warmth and a nice color.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has around:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Fats: 14g
- Carbs: 20g
This dish is a tasty option for a snack or meal. It packs protein, which is great for energy.
Recommended Kitchen Tools
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups
These tools make cooking easy. A baking sheet helps the tenders crisp up in the oven. Mixing bowls are key for combining ingredients. A whisk is perfect for blending the egg mixture. Measuring cups ensure you use the right amounts.
For the full recipe, refer back to the recipe section.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
3. In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth. This will help the coating stick.
Coating the Chicken
1. Take each chicken strip and dip it into the egg mixture. Let any extra egg drip off.
2. Next, place the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mix. Press down to coat it well.
3. A good tip is to ensure you press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken. This helps the coating stick during baking.
Baking Process
1. Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each piece.
2. Bake them in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. You want the chicken cooked through and the coating golden brown.
3. For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning.
This method ensures crispy baked chicken tenders that are easy to make and full of flavor! Check the [Full Recipe] for more details.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Crispy Texture
To get that perfect crispy texture, use panko breadcrumbs. Panko gives a light and airy crunch that regular breadcrumbs can’t match. Their larger flakes help create a golden, crispy layer. Spray your chicken tenders with cooking spray before baking. This extra layer of oil helps the coating crisp up nicely in the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your crispy baked chicken tenders with your favorite sauces. Ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard work well. For a fun twist, try a spicy dipping sauce. You can also serve these tenders with fresh veggies or a light salad. When plating, stack the tenders and add a sprig of parsley for a pop of color. This makes your dish look even more appealing.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet. Make sure to leave space between the chicken tenders. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp them evenly. Another mistake is not letting the chicken cool before serving. If you serve them too hot, the coating might come off. Let them sit for a few minutes to firm up before enjoying your delicious snack.
Variations
Healthier Alternatives
You can make crispy baked chicken tenders even healthier. Here are two great options:
- Gluten-free breadcrumb options: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal. Both give a nice crunch.
- Low-carb versions using almond flour: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour. This keeps the meal low in carbs and adds a nutty flavor.
Flavor Additions
Want to spice things up? Consider adding some new flavors:
- Adding spices like cayenne or Italian herbs: A pinch of cayenne gives heat. Italian herbs add freshness. Experiment with what you like best.
- Marinades for different flavor profiles: Marinade chicken tenders in buttermilk, soy sauce, or lemon juice. Each offers a unique taste before you coat and bake.
Cooking Methods
Try these methods for different results:
- Air frying option for alternate cooking method: Air fryers cook tenders quickly. They make them crispy without much oil.
- Grilling as a summer variation: Grilling adds a smoky flavor. Simply cook the marinated chicken on the grill for a tasty twist.
These variations keep your chicken tenders exciting. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your crispy baked chicken tenders fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb moisture. This helps maintain their crispiness. Refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for about three days.
Reheating Tips
When you want to enjoy leftovers, reheating them well is key. The oven is best for keeping that crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the tenders on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method makes them crunchy again. If you use the microwave, they may become soggy. If you must use the microwave, heat them for 1-2 minutes, but be aware of the texture change.
Freezing Guidelines
You can freeze chicken tenders for longer storage. To freeze, let them cool completely. Wrap each tender in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until heated through. This method helps to keep them tasty and enjoyable. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe.
FAQs
How long do crispy baked chicken tenders last in the fridge?
Crispy baked chicken tenders stay good for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When you want to eat them again, check for any off smells or changes in texture. If they look or smell fine, they are likely still good to eat.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it first. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can soak it in cold water for about an hour. After thawing, you can easily cut the chicken into strips and follow the full recipe.
What dips pair well with baked chicken tenders?
There are many tasty dips that go well with baked chicken tenders. Here are some of my favorites:
- Honey mustard: A classic choice that adds a sweet touch.
- Ranch dressing: Creamy and tangy, it complements the crispy chicken well.
- Barbecue sauce: A smoky flavor that many love.
- Buffalo sauce: For those who like a spicy kick.
- Ketchup: A simple and popular option for kids.
Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite dip!
This blog post guided you through making crispy baked chicken tenders. We covered the key ingredients, shared careful preparation steps, and highlighted tips for texture and serving. Remember, using panko breadcrumbs makes a big difference. Also, keep an eye on your baking sheet to avoid overcrowding. Whether you want to add spices or try healthier options, the possibilities are endless. With these tips, you’ll create a tasty dish that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!
![- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips - 1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch) - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon paprika - ½ teaspoon salt - ½ teaspoon black pepper - 1 large egg - 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard - 1 tablespoon honey - Cooking spray To make crispy baked chicken tenders, gather your ingredients first. Use fresh chicken breast for the best taste. Panko breadcrumbs give a great crunch. Parmesan cheese adds flavor and helps the coating stick. Garlic powder and paprika bring warmth and a nice color. Each serving has around: - Calories: 320 - Protein: 28g - Fats: 14g - Carbs: 20g This dish is a tasty option for a snack or meal. It packs protein, which is great for energy. - Baking sheet - Mixing bowls - Whisk - Measuring cups These tools make cooking easy. A baking sheet helps the tenders crisp up in the oven. Mixing bowls are key for combining ingredients. A whisk is perfect for blending the egg mixture. Measuring cups ensure you use the right amounts. For the full recipe, refer back to the recipe section. 1. First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the chicken cook evenly. 2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly spray it with cooking spray to prevent sticking. 3. In a large bowl, mix the breadcrumbs with grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. 4. In another bowl, whisk together the egg, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth. This will help the coating stick. 1. Take each chicken strip and dip it into the egg mixture. Let any extra egg drip off. 2. Next, place the chicken strip in the breadcrumb mix. Press down to coat it well. 3. A good tip is to ensure you press the breadcrumbs onto the chicken. This helps the coating stick during baking. 1. Place the coated chicken tenders on your prepared baking sheet. Leave some space between each piece. 2. Bake them in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. You want the chicken cooked through and the coating golden brown. 3. For an extra crispy finish, turn on the broiler for the last 2 to 3 minutes. Watch closely to avoid burning. This method ensures crispy baked chicken tenders that are easy to make and full of flavor! Check the [Full Recipe] for more details. To get that perfect crispy texture, use panko breadcrumbs. Panko gives a light and airy crunch that regular breadcrumbs can't match. Their larger flakes help create a golden, crispy layer. Spray your chicken tenders with cooking spray before baking. This extra layer of oil helps the coating crisp up nicely in the oven. Pair your crispy baked chicken tenders with your favorite sauces. Ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard work well. For a fun twist, try a spicy dipping sauce. You can also serve these tenders with fresh veggies or a light salad. When plating, stack the tenders and add a sprig of parsley for a pop of color. This makes your dish look even more appealing. One common mistake is overcrowding the baking sheet. Make sure to leave space between the chicken tenders. This allows hot air to circulate and crisp them evenly. Another mistake is not letting the chicken cool before serving. If you serve them too hot, the coating might come off. Let them sit for a few minutes to firm up before enjoying your delicious snack. {{image_2}} You can make crispy baked chicken tenders even healthier. Here are two great options: - Gluten-free breadcrumb options: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed rice cereal. Both give a nice crunch. - Low-carb versions using almond flour: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour. This keeps the meal low in carbs and adds a nutty flavor. Want to spice things up? Consider adding some new flavors: - Adding spices like cayenne or Italian herbs: A pinch of cayenne gives heat. Italian herbs add freshness. Experiment with what you like best. - Marinades for different flavor profiles: Marinade chicken tenders in buttermilk, soy sauce, or lemon juice. Each offers a unique taste before you coat and bake. Try these methods for different results: - Air frying option for alternate cooking method: Air fryers cook tenders quickly. They make them crispy without much oil. - Grilling as a summer variation: Grilling adds a smoky flavor. Simply cook the marinated chicken on the grill for a tasty twist. These variations keep your chicken tenders exciting. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide above. To keep your crispy baked chicken tenders fresh, store them in an airtight container. Place a paper towel at the bottom to absorb moisture. This helps maintain their crispiness. Refrigerate them within two hours of cooking. They will stay good for about three days. When you want to enjoy leftovers, reheating them well is key. The oven is best for keeping that crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the tenders on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes. This method makes them crunchy again. If you use the microwave, they may become soggy. If you must use the microwave, heat them for 1-2 minutes, but be aware of the texture change. You can freeze chicken tenders for longer storage. To freeze, let them cool completely. Wrap each tender in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight. Then, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until heated through. This method helps to keep them tasty and enjoyable. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe. Crispy baked chicken tenders stay good for about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container to keep them fresh. When you want to eat them again, check for any off smells or changes in texture. If they look or smell fine, they are likely still good to eat. Yes, you can use frozen chicken for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it first. The best way is to leave it in the fridge overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can soak it in cold water for about an hour. After thawing, you can easily cut the chicken into strips and follow the full recipe. There are many tasty dips that go well with baked chicken tenders. Here are some of my favorites: - Honey mustard: A classic choice that adds a sweet touch. - Ranch dressing: Creamy and tangy, it complements the crispy chicken well. - Barbecue sauce: A smoky flavor that many love. - Buffalo sauce: For those who like a spicy kick. - Ketchup: A simple and popular option for kids. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite dip! This blog post guided you through making crispy baked chicken tenders. We covered the key ingredients, shared careful preparation steps, and highlighted tips for texture and serving. Remember, using panko breadcrumbs makes a big difference. Also, keep an eye on your baking sheet to avoid overcrowding. Whether you want to add spices or try healthier options, the possibilities are endless. With these tips, you’ll create a tasty dish that everyone will enjoy. Happy cooking!](https://cheftaling.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/3d26b636-b80d-423c-8eb5-2a9f8d41f5b6-250x250.webp)