Why Make This Recipe

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a fantastic choice for a quick and easy meal. They’re crispy, flavorful, and healthier than fried options. Making them at home gives you control over the ingredients, allowing you to avoid preservatives and additives. Plus, they are perfect for both kids and adults, making them a great addition to family dinners or lunchboxes.

How to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

1 pound chicken tenders
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil spray

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare three shallow bowls: one with flour, one with beaten eggs, and one with breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Dredge each chicken tender in flour, dip in eggs, and coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Place the coated tenders on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Lightly spray the tops with olive oil.
Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through, flipping halfway.
Serve warm.

How to Serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

These chicken tenders are best served hot out of the oven. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces like ranch, honey mustard, or barbecue sauce. You can also serve them alongside a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or crispy fries for a complete meal.

How to Store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

To store leftover chicken tenders, allow them to cool and place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn.

Tips to Make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

For extra crunch, consider using panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Experiment with herbs and spices such as Italian seasoning or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Letting chicken tenders marinate in your choice of seasoned buttermilk for a couple of hours before breading can add great flavor and tenderness.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding different seasonings to the breadcrumb mixture or using whole chicken breasts cut into strips. If you prefer a gluten-free option, swap regular flour and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen chicken tenders?
A: Yes, you can use frozen chicken tenders. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before breading.

Q: How can I make these chicken tenders spicier?
A: Add some cayenne pepper or chili powder to the breadcrumb mixture for a spicy kick.

Q: Can I bake these chicken tenders in an air fryer?
A: Yes, you can! Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.