Why Make This Recipe
Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier, delicious alternative to fried chicken. They are easy to make and perfect for kids and adults alike. You can enjoy them as a snack, in a sandwich, or with your favorite dipping sauce. Making them at home allows you to control the ingredients, making sure they are fresh and tasty.
How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- 1 lb 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
- Olive oil spray
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
- Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip in eggs, and then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are versatile. You can serve them with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for dipping. They pair well with veggies, fries, or a side salad, making them a great meal option for any time of day.
How to Store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
To store leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool completely. Place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze them for longer storage. Just place them in a freezer-safe bag and enjoy them within 2 months.
Tips to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
- Make sure to cut the chicken into even strips for uniform cooking.
- You can customize the breadcrumbs by adding herbs or cheese for extra flavor.
- For extra crunch, you can double dip the chicken in the eggs and breadcrumbs.
Variation
For a gluten-free version, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular flour and breadcrumbs. You can also spice things up with cayenne pepper or add parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breast?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely before cutting it into strips for the best results.
2. Can I bake these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry them at 400°F for around 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a crispy texture.
3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. It should read at least 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, the chicken should be golden brown and the juices should run clear when cut.
Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Set up a breading station: place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
- Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip in eggs, and then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Lightly spray the chicken with olive oil.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
- Serve hot with ranch dressing, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce for dipping.