Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier, oven-baked alternative to the classic fried version—but they’re just as golden, crunchy, and flavorful. These tenders are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked to crispy perfection, making them perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day snacks, or kid-friendly meals.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Crispy without deep frying
- Healthier and lighter than traditional chicken tenders
- Simple, pantry-friendly ingredients
- Kid-approved and family-friendly
- Easy to make and ready in under 30 minutes
- Oven-baked with a satisfying crunch
- Great for dipping and pairing with sides
- Freezer-friendly and meal-prep ready
- Naturally high in protein
- Perfect for sandwiches, salads, or wraps
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken tenders or boneless chicken breasts (cut into strips)
- All-purpose flour
- Eggs
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Regular breadcrumbs (optional, for extra texture)
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Cooking spray or olive oil spray
Directions
- Preheat oven: Set to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top (optional, for extra crispness).
- Prepare breading stations:
- Bowl 1: Flour
- Bowl 2: Beaten eggs
- Bowl 3: Panko, regular breadcrumbs, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper
- Bread the chicken: Dip each piece into the flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to coat well.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place tenders on the wire rack or directly on parchment-lined baking sheet. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray.
- Bake: Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauces.
Servings and timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 20 minutes
- Total time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version
- Add grated parmesan to the breadcrumb mix for extra flavor
- Spice it up with cayenne, hot sauce, or chili flakes
- Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian alternative
- Serve over salad or in wraps for a complete meal
- Try honey mustard, ranch, BBQ, or spicy mayo for dipping
storage/reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, place in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 8–10 minutes or air fryer for 5–6 minutes to keep the coating crisp. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the coating soggy.
To freeze, place cooled tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes, just slice them into strips of even thickness for consistent cooking.
What are panko breadcrumbs?
Panko are Japanese-style breadcrumbs that are lighter and flakier than regular breadcrumbs, perfect for a crispy coating.
How do I get the tenders really crispy?
Use a wire rack and spray lightly with oil. Baking at a high temperature helps too.
Can I use an air fryer?
Yes, air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Are these tenders spicy?
Not unless you add spice. You can adjust heat by including cayenne or chili flakes.
What dipping sauces go best with these?
Ranch, honey mustard, BBQ, buffalo, or garlic aioli are all great options.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, bread them ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake, up to 1 day in advance.
Are these tenders healthy?
They are lower in fat than fried tenders, high in protein, and can be made even lighter with whole wheat breadcrumbs or air frying.
Can I freeze them raw?
Yes, freeze after breading. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.
What sides pair well with these?
Fries, coleslaw, salad, sweet potato wedges, or steamed veggies all work great.
Conclusion
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious, healthier twist on a classic favorite. With their golden coating, juicy interior, and irresistible crunch, they’re perfect for dipping, sandwich-making, or topping off a salad. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just craving comfort food with a clean-eating edge, these tenders are a surefire winner every time.
Print
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken, coated in a seasoned breadcrumb crust and baked to golden perfection—perfect for both kids and adults.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders or boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into strips
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon milk
- Olive oil spray
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a wire rack.
- In a shallow bowl, mix panko, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place flour in a second bowl.
- In a third bowl, whisk eggs and milk together.
- Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip in the egg mixture, then coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
- Place chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet and lightly spray with olive oil spray.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
- Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Notes
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free breadcrumbs as needed.
- Add cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix for a spicy kick.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge and reheated in the oven for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 tenders
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg