Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders (Printable Version)

Crunchy oven-baked chicken tenders coated in seasoned breadcrumbs. Perfect family-friendly comfort food.

# What You'll Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 1 pound chicken breasts or chicken tenders, cut into 1-inch strips if using breasts

→ Breading

02 - 2 large eggs, beaten
03 - 1 cup panko breadcrumbs or regular breadcrumbs
04 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
06 - 1 teaspoon paprika
07 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
08 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

→ For Baking

10 - Olive oil spray

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - If using chicken breasts, slice into 1-inch wide strips. Omit this step for tenders.
02 - Beat eggs in one bowl. In a separate bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
03 - Lightly season chicken strips with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
04 - Dip each chicken strip in beaten egg, allowing excess to drip off, then coat thoroughly in breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere. For extra crispiness, dip again in egg and breadcrumbs for a double coating.
05 - Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or silicone mat. Optionally, set a wire rack on top to promote crispiness.
06 - Place coated chicken stripes on prepared baking sheet or rack, spacing apart for even cooking.
07 - Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray chicken with olive oil spray. Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping strips halfway through, until golden brown and crisp.
08 - Verify chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before removing from oven.
09 - Allow tenders to rest for several minutes. Serve warm with honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing if desired.

# Additional Notes:

01 - Double coating in breadcrumbs increases crispiness and enhances texture.