Why You’ll Love This Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy meal, you’ll love this baked chicken tenders recipe. It’s a game-changer for busy weeknights!
I appreciate how quick it’s to prepare, and the crispy, golden coating makes it feel indulgent. Plus, it’s baked, so I don’t have to deal with the mess of frying.
My family enjoys these tenders, and I love that they’re healthier without sacrificing flavor. They’re versatile too—perfect for dipping sauces or adding to salads.
Honestly, once you try these, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make them sooner. Trust me, they’ll quickly become a favorite!
Ingredients of Baked Chicken Tenders
When it comes to whipping up a quick dinner that the whole family will enjoy, having the right ingredients on hand is key. This baked chicken tenders recipe isn’t only simple but also uses ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry or fridge.
It’s all about that crispy, flavorful coating that makes these tenders so irresistible. Plus, you can customize them to suit your taste buds. So let’s explore what you’ll need to gather before you get cooking!
Here’s your shopping list for the baked chicken tenders:
- 1 1/2 lbs chicken tenders
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Black pepper (to taste)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tablespoon water
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients for a moment. You might be wondering why panko breadcrumbs make such a difference. Well, they’re lighter and airier than regular breadcrumbs, which means they create that perfect crunch when baked.
If you don’t have parmesan cheese on hand, you can always swap it out for another hard cheese, or even just skip it altogether if you’re feeling adventurous.
And hey, don’t be afraid to play around with the spices. Want a little kick? Toss in some cayenne pepper or paprika. The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility, so feel free to make it your own. Happy cooking!
How to Make Baked Chicken Tenders
Making baked chicken tenders is a breeze, and I promise it’ll be a hit at your dinner table. First things first, preheat your oven to 425°F. This is essential because a hot oven is what gives those tenders that golden, crispy finish we all crave.
While it’s warming up, grab a baking sheet and line it with foil. Don’t forget to spray it with non-stick spray – trust me, you don’t want your delicious tenders to play “stick and tear” when you try to serve them.
Now, let’s explore the fun part: the coating. In a large bowl, combine 1 cup of panko breadcrumbs, 1/2 cup of grated parmesan cheese, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and a pinch of black pepper.
Feel free to add some garlic powder, anywhere from 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon, depending on how much you love garlic. Mix it all together until it’s a happy little blend of crunchiness.
In another bowl, whisk together 2 eggs and 1 tablespoon of water until it’s nice and frothy. This is your egg wash – the magical glue that holds everything together.
Now comes the messy (but fun) part. Take each of the 1 1/2 lbs of chicken tenders and dip them into the egg wash, making sure they’re well-coated.
Then, transfer them to the panko mixture, giving them a good press so they can really stick to the chicken. Place the coated tenders on your prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
Pop them into the oven and let them bake for about 18 to 20 minutes. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through; you want both sides to get that beautiful golden color.
When they’re done, you’ll have perfectly baked chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and ready to be devoured. Enjoy!
Baked Chicken Tenders Substitutions & Variations
While baked chicken tenders are delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to switch things up.
For a gluten-free option, try using almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko. If you want a spicy kick, add cayenne pepper or paprika to the breadcrumb mixture.
For a cheesy twist, mix in some shredded mozzarella or cheddar. You can also experiment with herbs like thyme or oregano for different flavors.
If you’re looking for a healthier version, use skinless chicken breasts and bake them with a light drizzle of olive oil instead. Enjoy customizing your tenders!
Additional Tips & Notes
To achieve perfectly baked chicken tenders, I recommend confirming your oven is fully preheated before placing the baking sheet inside. It helps the tenders cook evenly and develop that crispy texture we all love.
Don’t forget to flip them halfway through the baking time; this confirms both sides get that golden brown color. For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in your favorite spices or sauces beforehand.
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge—they make for great snacks! Reheat in the oven for maximum crispiness.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade chicken tenders!