Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Why Make This Recipe

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to fried chicken tenders. They are easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner or snack. By baking instead of frying, you reduce the fat content, making these tenders a better choice for you and your family. Plus, they are crispy, flavorful, and can be customized with your favorite spices!

How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Dredge each chicken strip first in flour, then dip in the egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased with cooking spray.
5. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

You can serve these homemade baked chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. Pair them with a side of veggies, salad, or fries for a complete meal.

How to Store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Once cooled, store any leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place the tenders in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Tips to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

• For extra crunch, try using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Marinate the chicken in your choice of seasonings or buttermilk for a few hours for added flavor.
• Don’t rush the baking process; ensure they are cooked all the way through for the best texture.

Variation

You can easily change the flavor profile of these chicken tenders. Try adding different spices like cumin, chili powder, or Italian herbs to the breadcrumb mixture for a new twist.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting and breading.

Q: Can I make these tenders gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! You can substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.

Q: Can I make these chicken tenders ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and store them in the fridge until you are ready to bake them.

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Delicious and healthier baked chicken tenders that are easy to make and perfect for a quick dinner or snack.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Snack

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup breadcrumbs Consider using panko for extra crunch.
• 1/2 cup flour Can be substituted with gluten-free flour.
• 2 large eggs Beaten.
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• to taste Salt and pepper Adjust according to preference.

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Set up a breading station with three shallow dishes: one for flour, one for beaten eggs, and one for breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Breading and Baking

1. Dredge each chicken strip first in flour, then dip in the egg, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing to adhere.
2. Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or greased with cooking spray.
3. Spray the tops lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.

Serving

1. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce, such as honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing.

Notes

You can store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage. Add different spices for varied flavors.