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Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe Easy No Frying Needed

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This crispy baked chicken tenders recipe delivers a crunchy, juicy bite without frying, using simple pantry staples and an easy oven method perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 pounds fresh, skinless chicken tenders (or chicken breast cut into strips)
  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (150 grams)
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese (50 grams)
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour (90 grams) – can substitute gluten-free flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil or cooking spray for drizzling

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or place a wire rack on top.
  2. Prepare the coating stations: In one shallow bowl, mix the flour with garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a second bowl, beat the eggs. In a third bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese.
  3. Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better and reduce sogginess.
  4. Dredge each tender first in the seasoned flour, shaking off excess. Next, dip into the beaten eggs, then press firmly into the breadcrumb mixture to coat all sides. Place them on the wire rack or parchment-lined baking sheet.
  5. Lightly spray or drizzle olive oil over the coated tenders to help the crumbs crisp and brown beautifully.
  6. Bake for 15 minutes, then flip each tender carefully. Bake an additional 10-12 minutes or until the coating is golden and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
  7. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute and keep the tenders juicy inside.

Notes

Pat chicken dry before coating to prevent sogginess. Use a wire rack for crispier tenders. For extra crunch, double-dip in egg and breadcrumbs but avoid too thick coating to ensure chicken cooks through. If coating isn’t crispy enough, broil for 1-2 minutes watching closely. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet for even cooking. Reheat leftovers in oven at 350°F for 10 minutes to maintain crispness; avoid microwaving.

Nutrition

Keywords: crispy baked chicken tenders, easy chicken tenders, no frying chicken, baked chicken recipe, healthy chicken tenders, panko chicken tenders

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