When it comes to quick, easy, and mess-free dinners, baked chicken tenders in the oven are a clear winner. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just looking for a healthier alternative to fried tenders, this method keeps the mess to a minimum while delivering crispy, golden tenders. With a few simple ingredients and your oven, you can enjoy a delicious meal without spending hours cleaning up the kitchen. Let’s dive into how baked chicken tenders can make your dinnertime a breeze!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko works best for extra crunch)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or olive oil (for baking)
- Your favorite dipping sauces (optional)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil for easy cleanup, and lightly spray it with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Breading
In a shallow bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. In another shallow bowl, beat the eggs. This assembly line will help keep the process organized and mess-free.
3. Coat the Chicken Tenders
Dip each chicken tender into the beaten eggs, letting any excess drip off. Then, coat it in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure the crumbs adhere well. Place the coated tenders onto the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake the Tenders
Once all the tenders are coated, lightly spray the tops with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil to help them crisp up in the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the tenders halfway through for even cooking. The tenders should be golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve and Enjoy
Remove the chicken tenders from the oven and let them cool for a minute before serving. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ketchup, honey mustard, or ranch, and enjoy your mess-free dinner!
Tips for Perfect Baked Chicken Tenders
- Use Panko Breadcrumbs: For the crispiest chicken tenders, opt for Panko breadcrumbs, which offer a crunchier texture than regular breadcrumbs.
- Customize Your Seasoning: Feel free to add different spices to the breadcrumb mixture like cayenne pepper for heat, or Italian seasoning for an herby twist.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Ensure there’s enough space between each tender to allow air to circulate, which will help them crisp up evenly.
- Make Ahead: You can bread the chicken tenders ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 4 hours before baking for a quick and easy meal.