If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate family-friendly dinner, these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are about to steal the show. Coated in a delightfully crunchy crust that’s baked (not fried!) to golden perfection, these tenders bring all the satisfying crunch you crave with a fraction of the mess. Whether you’re serving kids or just a grown-up fan of classic comfort food, you’ll love how every piece turns out juicy inside and crisp outside. Get ready for a flavor-packed, irresistible meal that disappears fast!

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders is refreshingly straightforward, and each one truly plays a starring role. From the bold seasoning to the double layer of crunch, these essentials guarantee every bite is as delicious as the last.

Chicken tenders: Fresh, boneless chicken tenderloins are the star—these cook quickly and stay super juicy.
All-purpose flour: Flour creates the perfect base layer for the breading to stick, setting the stage for a crispy crust.
Eggs: Beaten eggs act as the glue, helping all that crunchy coating cling tightly to each tender.
Panko breadcrumbs: Panko delivers unbeatable crunch and a beautiful golden color when baked.
Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a savory, salty depth and helps the crust crisp up even more in the oven.
Smoked paprika: This spice adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color—don’t skip it if you can help it!
Garlic powder: Just a touch brings a satisfying savory kick to every bite.
Salt and black pepper: These basics amplify all the flavors—season each step for the best results.
Cooking spray or olive oil: A little mist or drizzle on top ensures you get that craveable crunch from the oven.

How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Prep Your Breading Stations

First, set yourself up for easy assembly by lining up three shallow dishes: one with flour, one with the beaten eggs, and one with a mixture of panko, Parmesan, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This organized setup keeps things tidy and makes the breading process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Dredge the Chicken

Pat the chicken tenders dry with a paper towel, then roll each piece in the flour until coated, shaking off any excess. Next, dip each floured tender into the egg, ensuring it gets fully covered so the crumbs have something to cling to.

Step 3: Coat with Crunch

Now transfer each chicken piece to the panko-Parmesan mixture. Press lightly so those flavorful crumbs hug the chicken for maximum crunch in every bite. Make sure each tender is evenly coated for the best texture.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Arrange the coated Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders on a parchment-lined baking sheet, giving each piece a bit of space. Spray or drizzle the tops lightly with oil—this is the secret to that deep-fried feel without the oil bath! Bake at 425°F (220°C) for about 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway, until the coating is crispy and the meat is perfectly cooked through.

How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Garnishes

Bring your platter to life with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a dusting of extra Parmesan, or a few lemon wedges for squeezing. These final touches make your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders look and taste extra special—almost like restaurant quality at home!

Side Dishes

Pair these golden beauties with classic favorites like sweet potato fries, a refreshing green salad, or buttery corn on the cob. For a comforting meal, try mashed potatoes and simple steamed veggies—Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders play well with just about anything.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn your Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders into sliders with soft buns and tangy slaw, or chop them into bite-sized pieces to top a hearty salad. They’re perfect for party platters with a trio of dipping sauces or even folded into wraps for a quick, satisfying lunch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders keep well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Place them in an airtight container lined with a paper towel to help maintain their crispiness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, let the tenders cool completely, then lay them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container. They’ll keep for up to two months and are perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

Reheating

To restore the crunch, reheat the Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders in a 400°F (200°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until they’re hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can soften the coating. For best results, use a wire rack over a baking sheet.

FAQs

How do I get the crispiest coating without frying?

Using panko breadcrumbs and a bit of oil spray, then baking at a high temperature, ensures that signature crispiness without a deep fryer. Flipping the tenders halfway through also helps create an even crunch on both sides.

Can I make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the flour and panko for gluten-free alternatives found at most stores. You’ll still get that deliciously crispy coating, just without the gluten.

What dipping sauces go best with these tenders?

Classic picks like honey mustard, ranch, or spicy sriracha mayo are always crowd-pleasers. For something different, try a creamy garlic aioli or a homemade barbecue sauce—they all pair wonderfully with Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders.

Can I prep these in advance for a party?

Definitely! Bread the chicken tenders and arrange them on a tray, cover, and refrigerate for up to 12 hours. When you’re ready to cook, move them straight into the oven for fuss-free party timing.

Will these work with chicken breasts instead of tenders?

Yes! Just slice boneless, skinless chicken breasts into strips, and follow the recipe as written. You’ll get the same juicy results and crispy coating. Just be sure the pieces are similar in size for even cooking.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as simple as it is satisfying, you can’t go wrong with Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders. They’re flavorful, foolproof, and guaranteed to become a staple at your table—happy cooking!

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe