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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

A stack of golden brown, crispy baked chicken tenders, with the top one cut open showing juicy white meat.

Simple recipe for making chicken tenders crispy without deep frying.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1.5 cups panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.25 teaspoon paprika
  • Cooking spray

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.
  2. Cut the chicken breasts into uniform tender shapes, about 1 inch thick.
  3. Set up a dredging station with three shallow dishes. Place flour in the first dish.
  4. In the second dish, whisk the eggs and water together.
  5. In the third dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  6. Dredge each chicken tender first in the flour, shaking off excess.
  7. Dip the floured tender into the egg mixture, letting excess drip off.
  8. Coat the tender thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so the crumbs adhere.
  9. Place the coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they do not touch.
  10. Lightly spray the tops of the tenders with cooking spray for extra crispness.
  11. Bake for 18 to 22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) and the coating is golden brown.

Notes

  • For extra flavor, add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
  • Serve immediately with your favorite dipping sauce.

Nutrition

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