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Baked Chicken Tenders (Crispy, Juicy & Family-Friendly)
Isla Marie

Baked Chicken Tenders

Crispy oven-baked chicken tenders with a golden seasoned coating and juicy, tender chicken inside. They’re lighter than fried versions but still packed with crunch and flavor. Perfect for family dinners, snacks, or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 320
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients:
  • 1½ lbs chicken tenders or chicken breast strips
For the Coating:
  • ½ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs beaten
  • 1½ cups panko breadcrumbs
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional:
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Cooking spray or olive oil spray

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper or wire rack
  • Mixing bowls
  • Tongs
  • Oven

Method
 

Step 1. Preheat Oven
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top.
Step 2. Prepare Coating Stations
  1. Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with seasonings in a third bowl.
Step 3. Coat Chicken
  1. Dip each chicken strip into flour, then egg, then breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly so coating sticks well.
Step 4. Arrange on Baking Sheet
  1. Place coated tenders on the baking sheet with space between each piece.
Step 5. Spray Lightly
  1. Lightly spray tops with cooking spray or drizzle with a little oil for crispiness.
Step 6. Bake
  1. Bake for 18–22 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Step 7. Check Doneness
  1. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 8. Serve
  1. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces.

Video

Notes

  • Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
  • Pat chicken dry before coating for better adhesion.
  • Do not overcrowd the baking sheet.
  • Flip halfway through baking for even crispiness.
  • Reheat in the oven or air fryer to maintain texture.