Crunchy Baked Chicken Tenders (No Frying)

Chicken tenders are the one food that both kids and adults will always say yes to. The problem is that fried chicken tenders are messy to make and not exactly healthy. These baked versions solve both problems — they’re just as crunchy as fried, but they come out of the oven instead of a vat of oil.

The secret is Panko breadcrumbs mixed with Parmesan cheese and a dip in seasoned flour and egg before coating. The Panko gives you that shatteringly crispy exterior, and baking on a wire rack means the bottoms get crispy too instead of getting soggy against the pan. My kids literally cannot tell the difference between these and fast food nuggets.

Sarah Mitchell

Crunchy Baked Chicken Tenders (No Frying)

Chicken tenders are the one food that both kids and adults will always say yes to. The problem is that fried chicken tenders are messy to make and not exactly healthy.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 310

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1.5 pounds chicken tenderloins
• 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 large eggs, beaten
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray
• Honey mustard or ranch for dipping

Method

 

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place a wire rack on a baking sheet and spray with cooking spray.
2. Set up three shallow bowls: flour seasoned with salt and pepper in the first, beaten eggs in the second, and Panko mixed with Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, and onion powder in the third.
3. Pat the chicken tenders dry. Dip each one in flour, then egg, then press firmly into the Panko mixture, coating all sides.
4. Place the coated tenders on the wire rack, not touching each other.
5. Spray the tops generously with cooking spray.
6. Bake for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F).
7. Serve with honey mustard, ranch, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Notes

Press the Panko coating firmly onto the chicken — this prevents it from falling off during baking. Cooking spray on top is what makes them turn golden brown. For extra flavor, add a pinch of cayenne to the breadcrumb mixture. These reheat well in the oven at 375°F for 8-10 minutes.