why make this recipe

Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders are a healthier alternative to the fried version, making them perfect for a family meal. They are easy to prepare and cook, making them a great choice for busy weeknights. Plus, they are kid-friendly and can be a fun way to introduce children to cooking.

how to make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Ingredients:

1 pound chicken breasts, cut into strips
1 cup breadcrumbs
1/2 cup flour
2 eggs, beaten
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking spray or olive oil

Directions:

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Set up a breading station: Place flour in one bowl, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs mixed with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a third.
Dredge each chicken strip in flour, dip into the egg, and then coat with the breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange coated chicken tenders on a baking sheet.
Spray lightly with cooking spray or drizzle with olive oil.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

how to serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Serve Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders while they are still hot. They go well with a variety of dipping sauces like ranch, barbecue, or honey mustard. You can also serve them alongside fresh vegetables or a salad for a complete meal.

how to store Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

If you have leftover chicken tenders, let them cool down to room temperature. Then, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They should be eaten within 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them tightly before placing them in the freezer.

tips to make Homemade Baked Chicken Tenders

Make sure your chicken strips are evenly sized for even cooking.
You can add more spices to the breadcrumb mixture for extra flavor.
Try using whole wheat breadcrumbs for a healthier option.
For extra crunch, consider adding some grated parmesan cheese to the breadcrumb mixture.

variation

You can make your chicken tenders spicier by adding cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mix. Alternatively, for a more seasoned flavor, you can use Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely before cutting and breading.

2. Can I bake these chicken tenders at a lower temperature?
Yes, you can bake them at a lower temperature, but it will take longer for them to cook through.

3. Are these chicken tenders gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend.