Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Are you on the hunt for a family-friendly recipe that will please both kids and adults alike? Look no further! These Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are exactly what you need. Each tender is coated with a deliciously crunchy crust, thanks to the breadcrumbs and Parmesan, while the chicken inside remains tender and juicy. Plus, they are baked instead of fried, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the steps to make these irresistible chicken tenders, and you’ll find lots of additional tips and ideas to elevate your meal. Let’s get started on making your new favorite chicken dish!

Why You’ll Love This Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this recipe! Here are just a few benefits to keep in mind:

Quick and Easy: This recipe can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
Perfect for Beginners: Whether you’re a culinary novice or just looking for a simple project, this recipe is straightforward and requires no special skills.
Ideal for the Whole Family: With a crispy, kid-friendly exterior and juicy chicken inside, these tenders are perfect for everyone, from toddlers to picky teenagers.
Economical: Using simple, affordable ingredients, this dish is budget-friendly and makes a hearty meal for less.
Versatile: These tenders can be served alone, in sandwiches, or as a salad topping, making them suitable for various occasions.

The Necessary Ingredients

Before getting started, let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need to create these delicious chicken tenders. Here’s your shopping list:

1 pound chicken tenderloins
1 cup breadcrumbs (you can use panko for extra crunch)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 eggs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or oil for baking

Notes and Substitutions on Ingredients:

Chicken Tenderloins: These are easy to cook and require minimal prep. If you can’t find tenderloins, chicken breasts cut into strips will also work well.
Breadcrumbs: Traditional breadcrumbs provide a decent crunch, but for ultimate crispiness, opt for panko breadcrumbs. This Japanese-style breadcrumb is lighter and flakier.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a lovely umami flavor and helps with browning. If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, consider nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the lactose.

How to Prepare the Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders Step by Step

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the preparation process! Follow these steps for perfectly crispy chicken tenders:

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Preheating is crucial as it ensures your tenders start cooking at the right temperature, helping them achieve that desired crispiness.
- Pro Tip: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking; this will help your chicken tenders cook evenly.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs.
- The eggs will act as a binder, allowing the breadcrumb coating to stick to the chicken.
- Pro Tip: Use fresh eggs; they’ll provide better binding compared to older eggs.
In another bowl, mix the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures an even distribution of flavor throughout the coating.
- Pro Tip: For extra flavor, consider adding some dried herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to the breadcrumb mixture.
Dip each chicken tenderloin into the egg mixture, then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Make sure each piece is thoroughly coated for maximum crunch and flavor!
- Pro Tip: Shake off excess breadcrumbs to avoid clumping and ensure an even coating.
Arrange on a parchment-lined baking sheet and lightly spray with cooking spray.
- Lining the baking sheet with parchment paper allows for easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
- Pro Tip: If you don’t have cooking spray, a light drizzle of olive oil will also work wonders for helping the tenders crisp up.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- Flipping ensures both sides get that lovely golden brown crust while cooking evenly.
- Pro Tip: An instant-read thermometer is a foolproof way to check that your chicken is cooked to perfection!
Optionally, broil for an additional minute for extra crispiness.
- Broiling adds an additional layer of crunch to the top, making for an extra delicious final product.
- Pro Tip: Keep a close eye on the broiler; it can quickly go from perfect to burnt!

Serving Suggestions

These Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are not just delicious on their own; here are some fun ways to serve them:

Perfect Pairings

Dipping Sauces: Serve with honey mustard, barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, or a zesty garlic aioli for an interactive meal.
Side Dishes: Pair with crispy fries, baked sweet potato wedges, a fresh garden salad, or steamed veggies for a balanced meal.
Drinks: Complement your meal with refreshing iced tea, lemonade, or a light beer.

Occasions

Weeknight Dinner: With a quick prep and cook time, they are perfect for busy nights.
Game Day: Serve them as a party platter alongside various dips during your next football game or movie night.
Kids’ Birthday Parties: These tenders are sure to please! Serve with a side of veggies and dip for a healthy twist.

Serving Tips

For a more elegant presentation, arrange the chicken tenders on a serving platter and garnish with parsley.
If serving as part of a meal, offer variety by allowing guests to choose their own dipping sauces.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To enjoy your leftovers with all their original flavor and texture, follow these simple storage and reheating tips:

Refrigerated

Duration: They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Type of Container: Place them in an airtight container to keep them fresh and prevent them from drying out.

Frozen

Duration: You can freeze cooked chicken tenders for up to 2 months.
Packaging: Wrap them individually in foil or place them in a freezer-safe bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating

Best Method: To retain crispiness, reheat in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10-15 minutes. You can also broil them for a quick char.
Microwave: If you’re short on time, a microwave will do in a pinch, but expect them to lose some crispiness.

Guaranteed Success Tips

Avoid common pitfalls with these golden rules:

Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Leave space between each tender to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
Make Sure the Chicken is Dry: Pat the chicken tenderloins with paper towels to remove excess moisture before breading.
Don’t Skip the Preheating: A properly heated oven is key to achieving that golden-brown crust.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check internal temperature for best results; chicken should reach 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
Experiment with Spices: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices or add your favorites to the breadcrumb mixture for a personalized touch!

Recipe Variations

Here are a few creative twists on the classic Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders that you can easily try at home:

For a Spicy Version: Add 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper or your favorite hot sauce to the egg mixture for a kick of heat.
For a Gluten-Free Version: Substitute traditional breadcrumbs with finely crushed gluten-free cornflakes or almond flour.
For a Cheesy Herb Version: Mix in 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning and use shredded mozzarella in place of Parmesan for a cheesy delight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenderloins?

A: Yes, chicken breasts that are cut into strips work just fine! Just remember that they may take a little longer to cook through.

Q: Can I leave out the Parmesan cheese?

A: While it adds great flavor and helps with the crispiness of the coating, you can substitute it with nutritional yeast or simply leave it out.

Q: What if I don’t have cooking spray?

A: No worries! You can use oil in a sprayer or drizzle a little olive oil lightly over the chicken before baking.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

A: An instant-read thermometer should read 165°F (75°C) at the thickest part of the tender. If you don’t have one, cut into one of the tenders; the juices should run clear and the meat be opaque.

Q: Can leftovers be reheated?

A: Absolutely! For the best results, reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness. The microwave is also an option, but the tenders won’t be as crispy.

Q: What sides pair well with chicken tenders?

A: Traditional pairings include fries, a fresh salad, or coleslaw. You could also serve them with steamed vegetables for a healthier option.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

A: Yes! These tenders store well and can be made in advance. Just keep them in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze for later use.

Now that you’re equipped with this comprehensive guide, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking! These Crispy Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are sure to become a hit in your household, ensuring everyone comes back for seconds. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!