Description
This Easy Baked Chicken Tenders recipe delivers extra crispy, golden brown chicken tenders made with a flavorful panko and Parmesan breadcrumb coating. Baked at 400°F for 25 minutes, these tenders are a healthier alternative to fried chicken but still packed with delicious crunch and savory seasoning. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or kid-friendly meal, they pair wonderfully with classic dipping sauces like honey mustard, ketchup, or ranch.
Ingredients
For the Coating
- 1 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or mozzarella cheese)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (or egg or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or set up a wire rack on top of the baking sheet to promote airflow and crispiness.
- Prepare Coating Mixture: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir until all ingredients are well mixed.
- Prepare Oil: Pour 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil into another shallow bowl and set aside. This oil will help the breading stick and crisp up during baking.
- Optional Drying and Chilling: Pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. For best results, you can chill the coated tenders in the fridge for 10–15 minutes before baking to help the coating adhere better and stay crisp.
- Coat Chicken: Dip each chicken tender first into the olive oil, then dredge it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Place the breaded tenders on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
- Bake: Place the chicken tenders in the preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes. Flip the tenders halfway through the baking time to ensure even crisping. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Serve: Remove the tenders from the oven and optionally sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ketchup, or ranch.
Notes
- Using a wire rack on the baking sheet helps air circulate and makes the chicken tenders extra crispy.
- Chilling the breaded tenders before baking can improve coating adhesion and crispiness.
- You can substitute Parmesan cheese with mozzarella cheese for a different flavor profile.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Olive oil can be replaced with egg or avocado oil depending on preference.
- Leftover baked chicken tenders can be reheated in the oven or air fryer to maintain crispiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American