Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Recipe
If you are craving something that strikes the perfect balance between crunchy and tender, look no further than these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders. They are oven-baked to golden perfection, boasting a flavorful, spiced breadcrumb coating that delivers just the right amount of crispiness without any excess oil. Whether you need a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing snack, these chicken tenders offer an irresistibly simple yet delicious option that your whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You only need a handful of straightforward ingredients to make these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, but each one plays a crucial role in building that perfect flavor and texture. From the tender chicken strips to the smoky paprika in the breadcrumbs, every element counts in creating that crave-worthy crunch and seasoning.
- 300 g chicken strips: Fresh, lean chicken strips are the star here, providing tender, juicy meat inside the crispy coating.
- 1 egg: Acts as the sticky binder to help the breadcrumbs adhere evenly and lock in moisture.
- 1 cup breadcrumbs: The crispy outer layer that creates the satisfying crunch; plain or seasoned breadcrumbs both work well.
- 1 tsp paprika: Adds a warm, smoky depth of flavor and a subtle red tint to the crust.
- Salt + pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance the natural flavors of the chicken and breadcrumbs.
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Step 1: Prepare Your Coating
Preheat your oven to 210°C (about 410°F). In a shallow bowl, crack and beat the egg until smooth. In another bowl, combine the breadcrumbs with paprika, salt, and pepper. This seasoning mix ensures each bite bursts with flavor and the paprika gives that gorgeous color.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken Strips
Take each chicken strip and dip it into the beaten egg, making sure it’s fully coated. Then transfer it to the breadcrumb mixture and press gently so the crumbs cling to every surface. This egg-to-crumb combo is the secret behind that fantastic crispiness after baking.
Step 3: Arrange and Bake
Place all the coated chicken tenders in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased rack. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, turning halfway if you like extra even browning. You’ll know they’re done when the edges turn golden and the chicken is cooked through and juicy inside.
How to Serve Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders
Garnishes
Add some fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice on top to brighten up those crispy tenders. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan can also elevate the flavor if you want a cheesy twist.
Side Dishes
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders pair wonderfully with simple sides like a crunchy salad, roasted veggies, or classic mashed potatoes. For a fun twist, serve with sweet potato fries or a zesty coleslaw to complement the smoky paprika flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your tenders in soft slider buns with your favorite sauces and crunchy slaw for a delicious chicken tender sandwich. Or offer an assortment of dipping sauces—like honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or garlic aioli—to create a customizable dipping station for friends and family.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh and tasty for up to 2 days, perfect for a quick snack or adding to sandwiches the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked tenders by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They keep well for up to a month and are great to have on hand when you need a fast meal.
Reheating
To bring back that crispy texture when reheating, pop the tenders in a preheated oven at 200°C (about 390°F) for 8–10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crunchy.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken strips?
Absolutely! Just cut the chicken breast into evenly sized strips to ensure they cook through evenly and maintain the tender bite you’re after.
What if I don’t have paprika on hand?
You can substitute with chili powder, smoked paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne for some heat. Each will give the breadcrumb coating a slightly different but delicious flavor profile.
Do I need to flip the chicken during baking?
Flipping halfway through baking helps achieve the crispiest, most evenly golden tenders, but it’s optional if you place them on a wire rack to allow heat circulation.
Can these be made gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out traditional breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers, and you’ll have a just-as-crispy, allergy-friendly version.
How can I make these more kid-friendly?
Mild seasoning and serving with fun dipping sauces like honey mustard or ketchup usually win the hearts of kids. You can also cut the tenders into smaller bite-sized pieces for easier eating.
Final Thoughts
Trying these Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders is like inviting a crispy, flavorful hug to your dinner table. With simple ingredients and a fuss-free method, you’re only about 25 minutes away from a delightful meal that everyone will ask for again and again. So why wait? Grab those ingredients and bake up a batch of these crunchy, juicy wonders—you won’t regret it!
