Name: Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders (≈450 g), cut into 1-inch strips if needed; 2 large eggs (≈100 g), beaten; 1 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs (100 g); ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g), optional; 1 tsp garlic powder (3 g); 1 tsp paprika (3 g); ½ tsp onion powder (1.5 g); ½ tsp salt (3 g); ¼ tsp black pepper (1 g); Olive oil spray, for coating

Jump to Recipe

There are nights when all you want is something simple, comforting, and—let’s be honest—kid-approved. That’s when these crispy baked chicken tenders come to the rescue. Forget the greasy takeout or frozen boxed versions; these golden beauties are made right in your oven with fresh ingredients you can feel good about.

They’re everything you love about classic chicken tenders—juicy on the inside, crunchy on the outside—but with a lighter twist since they’re baked instead of fried. And here’s the best part: they come together in just 30 minutes, making them an easy chicken recipe that works on even the busiest weeknights.

Perfect for a family dinner, game-day snack, or even meal-prepping lunches, these healthy chicken tenders are versatile, satisfying, and guaranteed to disappear fast. So grab that bag of breadcrumbs, preheat your oven, and let’s make a batch of tenders that will earn a permanent spot on your dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Oven baked chicken that’s healthier than frying
Juicy inside, perfectly crunchy outside
Quick and easy chicken recipe—ready in 30 minutes
Family dinner favorite (picky eater–approved!)

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breasts or chicken tenders (about 450 g), cut into 1-inch strips if needed
2 large eggs (about 100 g), beaten
1 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs (100 g)
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (50 g), optional
1 teaspoon garlic powder (3 g)
1 teaspoon paprika (3 g)
½ teaspoon onion powder (1.5 g)
½ teaspoon salt (3 g)
¼ teaspoon black pepper (1 g)
Olive oil spray for coating

Steps

Prep chicken: cut breasts into 1-inch strips, or use pre-cut tenders.
Set up breading station: beat eggs in one bowl; mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, and spices in another.
Season chicken lightly with salt and pepper.
Coat tenders: dip each strip in egg, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing to stick. For extra crunch, double coat.
Arrange on sheet: line a baking tray with parchment or a silicone mat. Place tenders on top (use a wire rack if you have one). Spray lightly with olive oil.
Bake: preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and cooked through (165°F/74°C).
Rest & serve: let chicken sit 3–5 minutes. Serve with dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch, or BBQ.

Cooking Tips for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Want next-level crunch? Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular. They’re lighter and crisp up beautifully in the oven. Parmesan cheese is optional, but it adds a nutty flavor that makes these tenders taste extra special.

Don’t overcrowd your baking sheet—leave space between tenders so they crisp instead of steam. And if you’ve got a wire rack, use it! It lets heat circulate all around the chicken for even browning.

Finally, don’t forget the olive oil spray. A light mist before baking helps the coating turn that irresistible golden brown without needing a deep fryer.

A Personal Kitchen Story

These chicken tenders became a staple in my house during the weeknight rush. One evening, I had exactly 30 minutes before soccer practice drop-off and two hungry kids staring me down like tiny food critics. Instead of caving to drive-thru chicken, I threw together this oven baked chicken recipe with what I had on hand.

The result? Silence at the table, followed by, “Can you make this again tomorrow?” That’s when I knew these healthy chicken tenders weren’t just a hit—they were a lifesaver. Now, they’re my go-to when I need something quick, healthy, and guaranteed to make everyone happy.

What to Serve with Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

These tenders play well with just about anything. For a balanced family dinner, pair them with roasted veggies, a fresh garden salad, or sweet potato fries. If you’re feeding kids (or kids at heart), mac and cheese or mashed potatoes make classic comfort-food sides.

For dipping, keep it fun—set out a trio of sauces like ranch, honey mustard, and BBQ, and let everyone choose their favorite. And if you want to keep it light, a side of crisp cucumbers or celery sticks with hummus adds freshness to the plate.

How to Store Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers (rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, skip the microwave—it makes the coating soggy. Instead, pop them in a 375°F oven for 8–10 minutes, or in the air fryer for maximum crunch.

Want to freeze them? Lay breaded but unbaked tenders on a sheet tray and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. When you’re ready to cook, bake straight from frozen at 400°F, adding 5–7 minutes to the cook time.

FAQs About Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and you’re all set.

Can I turn this into a healthy chicken tenders meal prep?

Definitely. Bake a batch, portion into containers with veggies and rice, and refrigerate for quick lunches.

Can I skip the Parmesan cheese?

Of course. It adds flavor, but these tenders are delicious even without it.

Do I need to flip the chicken while baking?

Yes! Flipping halfway ensures both sides get that perfect crunch.

Bringing It All Together

These crispy baked chicken tenders are everything a busy cook dreams of: quick, family-friendly, and healthier than frying. With a crunchy coating and juicy center, they’re the kind of easy chicken recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Whether you’re making a weeknight family dinner, prepping lunches ahead, or serving a fun weekend meal with dips galore, these tenders deliver every time. So skip the fast food line, preheat your oven, and let these golden-brown beauties become the MVP of your dinner table.

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