Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-485720H20M18S
Total time: PT-485720H20M18S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 2 tbsp water; 1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional); Olive oil spray (or melted butter for brushing)

I love making these crispy baked chicken tenders because they deliver all the satisfying crunch of fried chicken without the mess or extra oil. They’re perfectly seasoned, golden brown, and juicy on the inside—making them a hit for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)

1 cup all-purpose flour

2 large eggs

2 tbsp water

1 1/2 cups panko breadcrumbs (for extra crunch)

1 tsp garlic powder

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 tsp onion powder

1 tsp paprika

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

Olive oil spray (or melted butter for brushing)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat for easy cleanup.

Set up three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with whisked eggs and water, and one with a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if using.

Coat each chicken tender first in flour, shaking off excess, then dip in the egg mixture, and finally press into the breadcrumb mixture until well coated.

Arrange the tenders in a single layer on the baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with olive oil or brush with melted butter for extra crispiness.

Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauces.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings. Prep time is roughly 10 minutes, and baking takes 15-20 minutes, so you can have a delicious meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Variations

I often add dried herbs like oregano or thyme to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor. You can swap Parmesan for other cheeses like Pecorino Romano or add a pinch of chili powder for more heat. For a gluten-free version, I substitute the flour and panko with gluten-free alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I place the tenders on a baking sheet and warm them in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 8-10 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.

FAQs

How can I make these tenders extra crispy?

I find that using panko breadcrumbs combined with a light spray or brush of olive oil or melted butter before baking gives the crispiest results. Flipping halfway through baking also helps even browning.

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?

Yes, but I recommend thawing them completely and patting them dry before breading to ensure the coating sticks well and cooks evenly.

What dipping sauces go best with these chicken tenders?

I love pairing them with honey mustard, ranch, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick.

Can I prepare these tenders ahead of time?

You can bread the chicken and keep it covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking, but I prefer baking them fresh for the best crunch.

Is it possible to bake these tenders without turning them halfway?

You can, but flipping helps both sides get crispy and ensures even cooking. If you skip flipping, expect less even browning.

Conclusion

I’m always impressed by how this recipe delivers crispy, flavorful chicken tenders without the hassle of frying. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a game day snack, or anytime I want that satisfying crunch with less oil. Once you try them, I think you’ll agree—they’re a winner every time.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders