Skip the deep fryer and make these crispy baked chicken tenders right in your oven! They’re golden, crunchy on the outside, and tender and juicy inside—a healthier twist on a family favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or kid-friendly meals, these homemade chicken strips are simple, foolproof, and irresistibly delicious.
Why You’ll Love These Baked Chicken Tenders
- Healthier than fried: No need for gallons of oil—these are baked to perfection.
- Crispy & golden: Panko breadcrumbs give the perfect crunch.
- Kid-friendly & family-approved: A crowd-pleaser for picky eaters and adults alike.
- Freezer-friendly: Prep ahead and bake straight from frozen for busy nights.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb chicken breasts or tenders – Cut into 1-inch strips if using whole breasts.
- 2 large eggs, beaten – Helps the breadcrumbs stick.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs – For extra crunch; regular breadcrumbs also work.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – Adds flavor and richness.
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- Olive oil spray – To help the breading crisp up in the oven.
Optional Add-Ins: A pinch of cayenne for heat or swap some breadcrumbs with crushed cornflakes for ultra-crunchy tenders.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
- Cut chicken breasts into strips if needed. Pat dry for best coating.
2. Prepare Breading Stations
- Bowl 1: Beat eggs.
- Bowl 2: Mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Season & Bread the Chicken
- Lightly season chicken strips with salt and pepper.
- Dip each piece into the egg, letting excess drip off.
- Coat in the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently so it sticks.
- For extra crunch, repeat the egg + breadcrumb step for a double coating.
4. Arrange for Baking
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat.
- For maximum crispiness, place a wire rack on top of the baking sheet and arrange tenders on the rack.
- Lightly spray with olive oil spray.
5. Bake the Chicken Tenders
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Chicken is done when the coating is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve & Enjoy
- Let rest a few minutes to keep the coating crisp.
- Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or BBQ.
Tips for the Crispiest Chicken Tenders
- Use a wire rack: Ensures even air circulation for all-around crispiness.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Space between tenders prevents soggy spots.
- Double coat for crunch: Egg + breadcrumb twice = thicker, crunchier crust.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with baked sweet potato fries, a fresh salad, or roasted veggies.
- Chop into pieces for wraps, salads, or meal prep bowls.
- Serve with classic dips: ketchup, ranch, or honey mustard.
Freezing & Reheating
- To Freeze (Uncooked): Bread the tenders, arrange on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding 5–7 extra minutes.
- To Freeze (Cooked): Cool completely and freeze in a single layer. Reheat in a 375°F oven until warmed through.
These homemade baked chicken tenders are the ultimate combination of healthy, crispy, and family-approved. They’re perfect for a quick dinner, party platter, or meal prep—once you try them, you’ll never want frozen store-bought tenders again!