Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

The Chicken Tenders You’ve Been Dreaming Of

Ever craved crispy, flavorful chicken tenders without stepping foot in a fried food joint? Say hello to your new favorite homemade creation! This recipe for Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders brings that mouthwatering crunch right to your kitchen, and best of all, it’s a healthier twist on the classic dish. Trust me, once you whip these up, take a whiff of that heavenly aroma filling your home, and hear that satisfying crunch, you’ll be hooked!

Why Make This Recipe

Why struggle with takeout when you can whip these up in no time? Here are a few reasons to jump on this bandwagon:

• Easy Cleanup: With just a few bowls and a baking sheet, your post-cooking mess will be minimal. Who doesn’t love that?
• Family-Friendly: Kids (and picky eaters) adore chicken tenders. This homemade version ensures you know exactly what goes into it!
• Budget-Friendly: You can skip the overpriced takeout and whip these bad boys up for a fraction of the cost. Win-win!

Ingredients

You don’t need fancy stuff — just these basics!

• 1 pound 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
• Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Set up a breading station:
   • Place flour in one bowl,
   • beaten eggs in another,
   • mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.
3. Dip each chicken strip first in the flour, then the egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
4. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders (Overview)

Making these chicken tenders is as easy as pie! Start by preparing your oven and breading station. This means coating the chicken strips in flour, getting them all eggy, and then rolling them in that delicious breadcrumb mix. It’s like sending your chicken on a fancy spa day! 🎉

Pro Tip: Use parchment paper on your baking sheet. It makes cleanup even easier and keeps those tenders from sticking.

How to Serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Serve your chicken tenders alongside a vibrant medley of veggies, or go classic with a side of golden fries. Picture this: succulent chicken, crispy coating, and a burst of flavor from your favorite dipping sauces— barbecue, ranch, or a zesty homemade honey mustard. Oh, the aroma!

How to Store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Wondering how long these will keep? In the fridge, they last about 3–4 days. If you’re not going to devour them right away, pop them in the freezer, where they can stay good for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tip: To regain that crunchy texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through rather than in the microwave. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Tips to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Want to nail this recipe? Here are some tips:

1. Don’t skip the spices: A pinch more garlic powder or paprika can give a little extra kick!
2. Try whole wheat breadcrumbs: For a healthier option, swap out regular breadcrumbs.
3. Cooking time varies: Check for doneness, as oven temperatures can vary. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Variation

How about a little twist? Spice it up by adding some Parmesan cheese to your breadcrumb mixture for a cheesy touch. For a vegan version, swap out chicken for tofu or cauliflower – it’ll surprise you with its flavor!

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw it completely before starting.

How can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare your chicken tenders up to the baking point, cover them, and stick them in the fridge for up to a day.

Can I freeze the cooked chicken tenders?
Absolutely! Place them in an airtight container after cooking, and they’ll be perfect for a quick meal later on.

📌 Pin this recipe for your next cozy dinner night!

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Enjoy delicious homemade chicken tenders that are crispy and full of flavor without the need for frying. Perfect for families and a healthier alternative to takeout!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Chicken Tendon Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into strips
• 1 cup breadcrumbs Consider whole wheat for a healthier option
• 1/2 cup flour
• 2 large eggs beaten
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder For an extra kick, feel free to add more
• 1 teaspoon paprika Can add a nice color and flavor
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or olive oil To keep the tenders from sticking and add flavor

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Set up a breading station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and mix breadcrumbs with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third bowl.

Breading the Chicken

1. Dip each chicken strip first in the flour, then in the egg, and finally in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring they are well coated.
2. Arrange the coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.

Baking

1. Bake for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown.
2. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

They keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, use an oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through for the best texture.