Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
There’s something irresistibly comforting about homemade chicken tenders, especially when they’re baked to perfection. This recipe for Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders is a delightful twist on the classic fried version. With a crispy, golden crust and tender, juicy meat inside, these tenders make for an ideal meal for families, kids’ parties, or even a cozy night in. They’re not just delicious; they are also healthier, allowing you to enjoy a beloved dish without the guilt.
Whether served with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, a fresh salad, or even tucked into a sandwich, these chicken tenders tick all the boxes for a quick meal. The rich combination of breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese provides a satisfying crunch, while the simple seasoning elevates the flavor to a whole new level. Once you try this recipe, you’ll love how easy it is to whip up a batch!
This is what the finished dish looks like when perfectly baked.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make your homemade chicken tenders.
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Take each chicken strip and dip it into the beaten eggs, allowing the excess to drip off before coating it with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray the tops with cooking spray for that extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the coating is golden brown.
Tips & Variations
- Ingredient Substitutions: You can substitute the breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for an even crunchier texture, or use almond flour for a gluten-free version.
- Optional Variations: Feel free to customize the seasonings by adding Italian herbs, cayenne pepper for a kick, or your favorite spices to the breadcrumb mixture.
- Storage & Reheating Tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them back in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes to retain their crispiness.
Recipe Information
- Prep time: 15 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Difficulty level: Easy
Generic image description or alt-text if needed.