Description
This Easy Baked Chicken Tenders recipe delivers extra crispy, golden chicken tenders using a simple panko breadcrumb coating and Parmesan cheese. Baked to perfection in the oven, these tenders are juicy inside with a satisfying crunch outside, making for a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
For the Coating
- 1 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or mozzarella)
- 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 black pepper
Main
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken tenderloins
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil (or egg or avocado oil)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray or arrange a wire rack over the baking sheet to promote extra crispiness for the chicken tenders.
- Mix the Coating: In a shallow bowl, combine the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, thyme, dried parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well until all the ingredients are evenly mixed. Set this breadcrumb mixture aside.
- Prepare Oil for Dredging: Pour the 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil into another shallow bowl. This will be used to help the coating stick to the chicken.
- Optional Step - Pat Dry & Chill: For an extra crispy result, pat the chicken tenderloins dry with paper towels. After coating, you can chill them in the refrigerator for 10 to 15 minutes; this helps the coating adhere better and keeps the tenders crispier when baking.
- Coat the Chicken: Dip each chicken tender into the olive oil, ensuring it’s fully coated, then dredge it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture on both sides. Place the coated tenders spaced evenly on the prepared baking sheet or wire rack.
- Bake the Tenders: Bake the chicken tenders in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even crisping. The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F to confirm they are safely cooked.
- Serve: Optionally sprinkle with fresh parsley for garnish and serve warm with your choice of honey mustard, ketchup, or ranch dipping sauce for a delicious meal or snack.
Notes
- Using a wire rack helps air circulate around the chicken tenders, making them extra crispy.
- Chilling the coated tenders before baking improves the coating adherence and final crunch.
- Feel free to substitute Parmesan with mozzarella for a milder cheese flavor.
- Use avocado or egg oil if preferred for different flavor or dietary needs.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Chicken, Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
