Why Make This Recipe
Homemade baked chicken tenders are a delicious and healthier alternative to the fried version. They are easy to make, perfect for family dinners, and can be a hit at parties. Making them at home allows you to control the ingredients and flavors, ensuring a tasty outcome every time.
How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast tenders
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup flour
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Cooking spray or oil for coating
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In one bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, place the flour.
- In a third bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and cooked through, flipping halfway through.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
How to Serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
You can serve homemade baked chicken tenders with a variety of dipping sauces such as barbecue, honey mustard, or ranch. They also make a great addition to salads or can be enjoyed as a tasty snack on their own.
How to Store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
To store your chicken tenders, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. When reheating, bake them in the oven to restore their crispness.
Tips to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken tenders in buttermilk for a few hours before coating.
- Experiment with different spices in the breadcrumb mixture to suit your taste.
- Make sure to line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easier clean-up.
Variation
Try adding different types of cheese to the breadcrumb mixture, like mozzarella or cheddar, for a unique twist. You can also use panko breadcrumbs for a crunchier texture.
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken breasts instead of chicken tenders?
Yes, you can cut chicken breasts into strips to use instead of chicken tenders.
2. How can I make these chicken tenders gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour and breadcrumbs with gluten-free versions.
3. Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken tenders up to the baking point and refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they are chilled.
Baked Chicken Tenders
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In one bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In another bowl, place the flour.
- In a third bowl, beat the eggs.
- Dredge each chicken tender in flour, then dip into the beaten eggs, and finally coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Spray the tenders lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with oil.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden and cooked through, flipping halfway through.
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.