Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are the ultimate homemade comfort food—golden, crunchy, and irresistibly juicy on the inside. These family favorites are simple to prepare, bake up beautifully without the mess of frying, and are wonderfully satisfying with every bite. Whether you’re serving them as a quick weeknight dinner, party finger food, or a hearty lunch, this recipe delivers that coveted crisp exterior and tender interior, all without the fuss of deep frying. Gather around, because this is one recipe you’ll reach for again and again!

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s talk ingredients! Each element in these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders plays a vital role. With this simple lineup, you’ll bring out the tender juiciness of the chicken, the crunchy texture of the coating, and a pop of flavor that’s totally crave-worthy. Here’s what gets them so deliciously golden and crunchy:

Chicken tenders: Fresh, boneless chicken tenders are the star here; they cook quickly and stay moist inside.
All-purpose flour: A dusting of flour helps the egg mixture stick and forms the base of your crispy crust.
Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the “glue”, ensuring the breadcrumb coating adheres perfectly.
Panko breadcrumbs: These Japanese-style breadcrumbs are coarser than regular, creating that extra crunch we all love.
Parmesan cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds savory, salty complexity right in the crust.
Paprika: Smoked or sweet—a sprinkle brings gorgeous color and subtly smoky flavor.
Garlic powder: Just a bit for aromatic, well-rounded flavor in every bite.
Salt and black pepper: Seasoning is vital for bringing out the best in your chicken tenders.
Cooking spray or olive oil: A light spritz or drizzle ensures your tenders get extra crispy in the oven—no deep fryer necessary!

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prepare Your Coating Stations

Begin by setting up a simple breading station with three shallow dishes—one each for flour, beaten eggs, and the breadcrumb mixture. This makes the coating process a breeze and keeps things organized. Mix your panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper so every tender is packed with flavor right from the start.

Step 2: Dredge and Coat the Chicken

Pat your chicken tenders dry with paper towels to help the coating stick better. Dip each piece first into the flour, shaking off any excess, then into the egg, and finally into the breadcrumb mixture. Press gently to ensure the coating clings all over. This step is key—you’ll see those crisp pieces develop right here!

Step 3: Arrange on the Baking Sheet

Place your coated tenders in a single layer on a lined baking sheet (parchment paper works wonders for easy cleanup). For the crispiest finish, give each tender a little space. A quick spray or brushing with olive oil ensures that golden-brown crunch, especially on the top!

Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy

Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through. When they’re beautifully golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), the tenders are perfect. The panko will have toasted into a crunchy shell, while the inside stays juicy and tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Let the Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders cool for a few minutes—they’ll firm up slightly, making them easier (and safer!) to handle. Now’s the fun part: serve them up with your favorite dips and side dishes. Get ready for rave reviews all around the table!

How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Sprinkle your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders with a little extra Parmesan or freshly chopped parsley for a pop of green and a touch of elegance—even a light dusting of smoked paprika can add visual and flavor flair. Slices of lemon for squeezing are wonderful too, and a little fresh-cracked black pepper never hurts!

Side Dishes

Classic pairings like sweet potato fries, crisp coleslaw, or buttery corn on the cob turn these tenders into a full meal. A light arugula salad or roasted veggies balance the richness nicely. Don’t forget classic dipping sauces: honey mustard, ranch, or a spicy sriracha aioli are all amazing matches.

Creative Ways to Present

Take your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders up a notch by serving them slider-style on mini brioche buns, or chopped over a fresh Caesar salad for a protein boost. They’re also fantastic wrapped in tortillas with crunchy veggies, or packed lunchbox-style with fun dips for the kids (or adults!).

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, store your cooled tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping them uncovered for the first 30 minutes before sealing can help maintain the crispy coating. They make a perfect snack or salad topping the next day!

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze baked (cooled) Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. This way they won’t stick together, and you can pull out exactly as many as you need. They’ll keep beautifully for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To restore maximum crispiness, reheat the tenders in a 400°F (205°C) oven for 10–12 minutes straight from the fridge, or 15–18 minutes from frozen. Avoid microwaving unless you’re in a real rush—the oven brings back that crunchy texture!

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Absolutely! Simply cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips similar in size to traditional tenders. They’ll cook up just as juicy and crispy using the same method.

How do I make these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs—both are widely available. You won’t miss out on crunch or flavor!

What makes these tenders so crispy without frying?

The magic comes from panko breadcrumbs and a hot oven. Spritzing or brushing olive oil on the coating helps deliver that golden, crunchy exterior you crave, all without any deep-fryer mess or extra fat.

Can I add spices to the breadcrumb mixture?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative—try adding onion powder, cayenne pepper for heat, or Italian seasoning for a Mediterranean twist. Personalize the flavor to match your taste or the occasion.

What are the best dips for serving?

Besides the classics like ranch, ketchup, and honey mustard, these tenders are incredible with homemade barbecue sauce, chipotle mayo, or even a tangy yogurt-based dip. You can mix and match for maximum dipping fun!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about homemade Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders—easy enough for a busy weeknight, impressive enough for company, and always enjoyed by everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try and see just how satisfying (and simple) it is to bring crispy, golden, better-than-takeout chicken tenders into your own kitchen. Happy baking!

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe