Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Name: Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into strips; 1 cup of breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese; 1 teaspoon of garlic powder; 1 teaspoon of onion powder; 1 teaspoon of paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 large egg; 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Serve up a family favorite with these Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders that are golden, crunchy, and healthier than the fried version! Coated with a seasoned breadcrumb mixture, these tenders are perfect for dipping and make a delicious meal or snack. Easy to prepare and bake, they're fantastic for busy weeknights or gatherings. Pair with your favorite sauces for a fun treat everyone will love.

Created by

Maya Richardson

Last updated on 2025-12-01T05:49:48.865Z

This recipe has been a family favorite for years. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these chicken tenders are not only healthier than their fried counterparts but also incredibly delicious!

Perfect for Meal Prep

These Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are not only easy to make, but they also work wonderfully for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch at the beginning of the week and store them in the refrigerator. Simply reheat them in the oven or microwave when you're ready to serve. This makes them an ideal solution for busy families looking to enjoy a quick, nutritious meal without the stress of nightly cooking.

Additionally, these tenders can be paired with a variety of sides, like fresh salads, steamed vegetables, or sweet potato fries, to create a balanced meal. Preparing several servings makes it easy to customize each meal according to your family's preferences, ensuring that everyone enjoys their dinner.

Versatile Dipping Sauces

One of the best things about these chicken tenders is how well they pair with different dipping sauces. From classic ranch and honey mustard to spicy sriracha and creamy barbecue, the options are endless. You can easily whip up homemade sauces or choose your family's favorites from the store.

Experimenting with dipping sauces can turn a simple meal into a fun dining experience. Create a dipping sauce bar where each family member can choose their favorite, adding a personal touch to the meal. This not only increases enjoyment but also encourages kids to explore new flavors.

Kid-Friendly Cooking Fun

Making these chicken tenders is a fantastic way to involve children in the kitchen. Have them help with the breading process, allowing them to coat the chicken strips with the seasoned breadcrumbs. This hands-on activity is not only fun but also teaches essential cooking skills.

By engaging kids in the cooking process, you're likely to spark their interest in trying new foods, especially if they’ve had a hand in making them. Not only will the tenders taste better to them, but they will also feel proud to have contributed to the meal.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking.

For the Chicken Tenders

1 pound of chicken breast, cut into strips
1 cup of breadcrumbs
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon of garlic powder
1 teaspoon of onion powder
1 teaspoon of paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 large egg
2 tablespoons of olive oil

Make sure you have everything prepped before you start baking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your crispy chicken tenders.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Prepare the Breading

In a bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Coat the Chicken

In another bowl, beat the egg and add the chicken strips, making sure to coat each piece. Then, dredge each strip in the breadcrumb mixture.

Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place the coated chicken strips on the lined baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil.

Bake the Chicken Tenders

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Let the chicken tenders cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Storage and Reheating

To keep your baked chicken tenders fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will maintain their flavor and texture for up to 3 days. Make sure they’ve cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up.

When reheating, it's best to use the oven to restore that crispy texture. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake the tenders for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps to avoid soggy tenders, ensuring they remain delicious.

Health Benefits

These chicken tenders are a healthier alternative to traditional fried versions, making them a great guilt-free option for family meals. By baking instead of frying, you significantly reduce the calorie count and the amount of unhealthy fats in your meal.

Furthermore, the lean protein from chicken breast supports muscle health and can help keep you feeling full longer. With the addition of whole ingredients like herbs and spices, these tenders not only taste great but also contribute to a balanced diet.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize the breading mixture to suit your family's taste preferences. You can add herbs like Italian seasoning, or swap out the breadcrumbs for crushed cornflakes for an even crunchier texture.

For a spicy kick, consider sprinkling some cayenne pepper into the breadcrumb mixture. This is a simple way to adjust the flavor profile, making the tenders adaptable for various occasions, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, just make sure it's fully thawed and patted dry before coating.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.