Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a delicious and healthy alternative to their fried counterparts. They are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, making them a perfect meal or snack for both kids and adults. Plus, they are easy to prepare and packed with flavor!
Table of Contents
Why make this recipe
Making your own baked chicken tenders at home allows you to control the ingredients. You can avoid preservatives and excess sodium found in store-bought versions. It’s also a fun cooking activity that the whole family can enjoy together. You can customize the seasonings to suit your taste and serve them with your favorite dipping sauces.
How to make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup flour
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Set up a dredging station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumb mixture in a third.
- Coat each chicken tender in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
Delicious and healthy baked chicken tenders that are crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, perfect for snacks or meals.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup flour
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a shallow bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Set up a dredging station with flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumb mixture in a third.
- Coat each chicken tender in flour, then dip in egg, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spray with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in buttermilk before breading. Use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Option
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 250mg
How to serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
You can enjoy these chicken tenders on their own or serve them with a variety of dipping sauces like honey mustard, barbecue sauce, or ranch dressing. Pair them with a side of veggies or a fresh salad, like this Chickpea Feta Avocado Salad, to make a complete meal. They are also great for game day snacks!
How to store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
To store leftovers, let the chicken tenders cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They will last for about 2 months in the freezer.
Tips to make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenderloins in buttermilk for a few hours before breading them.
- To achieve a crunchier texture, you can use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Experiment with different spices or herbs in the breadcrumb mixture, such as Italian seasoning or cayenne pepper for added heat.
Variations
You can make a healthier version by using whole wheat breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs if you have dietary restrictions. For a cheesy twist, add different cheese varieties to the breadcrumb mixture, such as cheddar or mozzarella.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenderloins?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to make your own chicken tenders.
2. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer and cook the chicken tenders for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are crispy and cooked through.
3. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and is no longer pink in the center.
Conclusion
Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a simple and tasty dish that everyone will love. They’re easy to prepare, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Whether for dinner or a snack, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home! Try it out and enjoy a healthier take on a classic dish.
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