Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Why Make This Recipe

Homemade baked chicken tenders are a great option for a family meal or a quick snack. They are healthier than fried chicken tenders, and you can control the ingredients. You can enjoy a crispy, flavorful treat without the guilt of deep frying.

How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

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

Directions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each chicken strip into the flour, then the eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumbs.
  4. Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.
  7. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Homemade baked chicken tenders are very versatile. You can serve them with ketchup, ranch, honey mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce. They make a perfect addition to salads, sandwiches, or even as a main dish with some side vegetables.

How to Store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

To store leftover chicken tenders, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy again.

Tips to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

  • Make sure to coat the chicken well in the breadcrumbs for a crispy texture.
  • Experiment with different spices in the breadcrumb mixture for a unique flavor.
  • If you have time, marinate the chicken strips for a bit prior to breading for added flavor.

Variation

You can also use different proteins like turkey or tofu for a vegetarian option. Adding Parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture can also enhance the flavor of the tenders.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken strips. Just make sure to thaw them completely before breading and baking.

How can I make these tenders gluten-free?
You can substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free options available in stores.

Can I add vegetables to the baking sheet?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like broccoli or carrots to the baking sheet for a complete meal. Adjust the cooking time according to the vegetables used.

Baked Chicken Tenders

These homemade baked chicken tenders are a healthier, crispy alternative to fried chicken tenders, perfect for a family meal or quick snack.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste pepper
  • Olive oil spray For light coating

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Set up a breading station with three bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dip each chicken strip into the flour, then the eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumbs.
  4. Place the breaded chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Lightly spray the tenders with olive oil.
Baking
  1. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.
Serving
  1. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Make sure to coat the chicken well in the breadcrumbs for a crispy texture. Experiment with different spices in the breadcrumb mixture for a unique flavor. If you have time, marinate the chicken strips for a bit prior to breading for added flavor. To store leftover chicken tenders, place them in an airtight container and keep them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave when ready to enjoy again.