Who doesn’t love crispy chicken tenders? 🍗✨ My Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier twist on the classic fried version. They’re crunchy, tender on the inside, and packed with flavor—all without the mess of deep frying! I make these all the time for my family, and they’re always a hit with my kids. The best part? They’re baked, not fried, so you get all the crispy goodness without all the oil. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend snack!

The key to making these tenders so crispy is the breadcrumbs and a little bit of baking powder in the coating. When baked in the oven, the chicken gets golden and crunchy without the extra fat. Plus, you can dip them in your favorite sauce, making them even more delicious!

Why You’ll Love Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are a total crowd-pleaser! They’re juicy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and perfectly seasoned. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or serving them at a party, these tenders always disappear fast. I also love how simple they are to make—no deep fryer required! Plus, you can easily adjust the seasoning to your liking, whether you want them spicy or extra savory. You can even bake extra and use leftovers in sandwiches, wraps, or salads.

What You’ll Need to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

1 lb chicken tenders (or chicken breasts, cut into strips)
1 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko for extra crunch)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon baking powder
2 large eggs, beaten
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Your favorite dipping sauce (like honey mustard or ketchup)

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it lightly with cooking spray.
Prepare the coating: In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, pepper, and baking powder. Stir everything together until it’s well-mixed.
Dip the chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, making sure it’s fully coated. Then, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure it sticks.
Place on the baking sheet: Arrange the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle the olive oil over the top of the tenders to help them get crispy in the oven.
Bake the chicken: Bake the chicken tenders for 15-20 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they’re golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C).
Serve: Once done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a minute. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces, and enjoy!

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Fun Variations

Feel free to change up the seasonings in the breadcrumb mixture. You can add cayenne pepper for some heat, Italian seasoning for a more herby flavor, or even a little grated lemon zest for a fresh twist. If you’re craving a more decadent version, try dipping the chicken tenders in buffalo sauce or barbecue sauce after baking!

How to Make It Healthier

To make these tenders even lighter, use whole wheat breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs. You can also reduce the amount of olive oil or skip it entirely and use a spray oil to coat the tenders lightly. For a low-carb version, try using crushed almonds or ground flaxseed in place of breadcrumbs.

Perfect for Family Dinners or Meal Prep

These Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are not only great for a quick family dinner but they also make an awesome meal prep option. Bake a big batch and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the oven or air fryer to keep that crispy texture. They also freeze well, so you can keep a stash for whenever you’re in the mood for a quick snack or meal!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?
Yes! You can use chicken breasts cut into strips, but make sure they’re about the same size so they cook evenly.
Can I freeze these chicken tenders?
Definitely! To freeze, lay the cooked tenders on a baking sheet and freeze them in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag or container. When ready to eat, just bake them from frozen for 20-25 minutes.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and coat the chicken tenders a day ahead, then store them in the fridge until you’re ready to bake them.
What can I serve with these chicken tenders?
These tenders go perfectly with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or steamed veggies. They’re also great in wraps or sandwiches.
How can I make these tenders spicy?
For a spicy version, add cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture or drizzle hot sauce over the tenders once they’re baked!