Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! These Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are not only crispy and juicy, but they’re also a healthier alternative to fried versions. You can whip them up in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, they pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces, allowing everyone to customize their experience!

This recipe is special because it brings together simple ingredients to create tender, flavorful chicken strips that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re serving them as a snack for movie night or as the main dish for dinner, these tenders will surely become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will love these tasty tenders—perfect for picky eaters!
• Healthier option: Baked instead of fried, these tenders are lower in fat but still full of flavor.
• Customizable: Feel free to experiment with different seasonings or dipping sauces to suit your taste.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prepare these chicken tenders ahead of time and bake them when you’re ready to serve!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients for these delicious Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders! You might already have some of these in your kitchen:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins, cut into strips
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Olive oil spray for coating

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on your preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey breast or even tofu for a vegetarian version!
• Change up the crumbs: Use crushed cornflakes or seasoned bread crumbs for a different texture and flavor.
• Add spices: Experiment with your favorite spices like cayenne pepper for heat or Italian seasoning for added flavor.
• Try different cheeses: For a twist, use grated mozzarella or nutritional yeast if you’re looking for dairy-free options!

How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Chicken & Seasoning Mix

Start by patting the chicken strips thoroughly dry with paper towels. This helps the coating stick better! In a shallow dish, whisk together the two large eggs until well combined. In another shallow dish, mix together the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese (if using), garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything well to make sure it’s evenly seasoned.

Step 2: Bread the Chicken

Now it’s time to give those chicken strips some love! Dip each strip into the beaten egg first, ensuring it’s fully coated—let any excess drip off so you don’t end up with soggy tenders. Then dredge each piece in the Panko mixture; press firmly to coat all sides evenly. This step is key for that nice crunchy texture we all crave!

Step 3: Prepare for Baking

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—this makes cleanup super easy! If you have an oven-safe wire rack, place it on top of the baking sheet. This allows air circulation and helps achieve extra crispiness. Arrange your breaded chicken tenders on the rack (or directly on parchment), making sure they’re in a single layer and not touching. A light spray of olive oil on top will help them brown beautifully.

Step 4: Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake those chicken tenders for about 12-15 minutes before carefully flipping each one over. Continue baking them for another 8-12 minutes until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Rest & Serve

Once they’re done baking, remove them from the oven and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This waiting period lets the juices settle back into the chicken. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, ranch dressing, or BBQ sauce. Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Making homemade baked chicken tenders is a breeze when you follow these simple tips that ensure your tenders come out perfectly crispy and delicious!

• Use Panko breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and create a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs. This will help give your tenders that satisfying crispiness without the need for frying.

• Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet: Make sure to arrange the tenders in a single layer without them touching each other. This allows hot air to circulate around each tender, resulting in even cooking and a crispier finish.

• Spray with olive oil: A light spray of olive oil on top of the breaded chicken helps achieve that golden-brown color and crunchy texture. It’s a healthier alternative to brushing melted butter or using excess oil.

• Rest before serving: Allowing the chicken tenders to rest for a few minutes after baking helps maintain juiciness. This step prevents the moisture from escaping immediately when you cut into them.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the seasoning mix! Adding your favorite herbs or spices like Italian seasoning, cayenne pepper, or even lemon zest can enhance the flavor profile of your chicken tenders.

How to Serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Presentation can elevate your homemade baked chicken tenders from ordinary to extraordinary! Here are some delightful ways to serve them up.

Garnishes

• Fresh parsley or cilantro: Chopped herbs add a pop of color and a fresh taste that brightens up the dish.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon adds acidity, enhancing the flavors of the tender chicken and providing a refreshing contrast.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: These sweet potato fries are not only delicious but also offer a healthy twist. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with savory chicken tenders.

• Garden Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers makes for a light and refreshing side that complements the richness of the chicken.

• Steamed Broccoli: Simple yet nutritious, steamed broccoli adds bright color and is an excellent source of vitamins. Drizzle with a little olive oil and lemon for extra flavor!

• Macaroni and Cheese: For those comfort food lovers, creamy macaroni and cheese is always a hit! The cheesy goodness pairs perfectly with crispy tenders for a satisfying meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your homemade baked chicken tenders will be a delightful addition to any family meal or casual gathering! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy days. Here’s how to store and enjoy your tenders later.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the chicken tenders to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• After cooking, let the chicken tenders cool fully.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Transfer the frozen tenders to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can last for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Place the chicken tenders on a baking sheet and reheat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
• If using a microwave, place them on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders:

Can I use regular breadcrumbs instead of Panko?

Yes! While Panko breadcrumbs give a lighter, crunchier texture, regular breadcrumbs can be used as an alternative. Just ensure they are well-seasoned for the best flavor.

How do I make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders crispy?

For extra crispy tenders, try using an oven-safe wire rack on top of your baking sheet when baking. This allows air circulation all around the chicken, resulting in that perfect crunch!

What dipping sauces go well with Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders?

These tenders pair wonderfully with honey mustard, ranch dressing, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy mayo. Feel free to experiment with your favorites!

Can I make these Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes as an alternative to keep this recipe gluten-free while still delicious.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders! They are not only healthier than fried options but also incredibly simple to prepare. Perfect for family dinners or as a quick snack, they bring everyone together at the table. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience or any variations you try!