The aroma of chicken tenders baking in the oven is like a warm hug from your grandma. The crispy exterior gives way to tender, juicy chicken that practically melts in your mouth, making every bite feel like a celebration. Whether it’s a weekday dinner or a weekend gathering, these chicken tenders are sure to impress.
I remember the first time I made these baked beauties for my family. It was a chaotic Tuesday night, and I was determined to create a dish that would make everyone forget about their long day. Spoiler alert: it worked! The kids devoured them like they were the last morsels on Earth, and my husband couldn’t stop raving about how they were better than takeout.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- The ease of preparation means you can whip these up anytime you need a quick meal
- They burst with flavor, thanks to the perfect seasoning blend
- Visually appealing with their golden-brown coating, they look as good as they taste
- Versatile enough to pair with various dips or sides, they fit any occasion beautifully
I once made these chicken tenders for a potluck, and everyone was asking for the recipe!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Aim for 3-4 breasts; adjust based on your crowd size and appetite.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give an unbeatable crunch; don’t skimp on this crunchy goodness.
Parmesan Cheese: Use grated cheese for extra flavor; it adds a savory depth that’s hard to resist.
Garlic Powder: A must-have for that aromatic kick; choose fresh if you want an extra punch.
Salt & Pepper: Don’t forget these basics; they elevate the overall flavor profile significantly.
Olive Oil: A light drizzle adds moisture and helps achieve that golden crust; use quality oil for best results.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high heat is crucial for achieving that crispy exterior everyone loves.
Prepare Your Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick spray. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
Coat the Chicken: In one bowl, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. In another bowl, drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts before coating them generously in the breadcrumb mixture.
Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the coated chicken tenders on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Give each piece some space so they can crisp up nicely without crowding each other.
Bake Until Golden: Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for that golden color and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked chicken.
Serve and Enjoy: Once done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Pair with your favorite dipping sauce or serve alongside some fresh veggies—your taste buds will thank you!
Now you’re all set to impress friends and family alike with these scrumptious chicken tenders baked to perfection!
You Must Know
- The best chicken tenders baked are crispy, juicy, and incredibly easy to make
- Experiment with different breading techniques for a delightful crunch
- This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a casual gathering with friends
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Bread the chicken tenders, then place them on a lined baking sheet for an even cook. Don’t forget to flip them halfway through for maximum crispiness.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to spice things up! Swap regular breadcrumbs for panko for extra crunch, or add herbs like rosemary or thyme for more flavor. A drizzle of honey mustard before baking works wonders too.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop them back in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, ensuring they stay crispy.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly baked chicken tenders, ensure your oil spray is generous before baking
- Avoid overcrowding the pan; give each tender space to breathe!
- A meat thermometer can help you achieve that perfect juiciness without drying out your chicken
Memories flood back of my niece’s face lighting up when she tried these chicken tenders for the first time—her pure joy was priceless and made my heart swell.
FAQ
What can I serve with chicken tenders baked?
Pair them with fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I freeze baked chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze them; just ensure they’re fully cooled before storing.
How long do baked chicken tenders last in the fridge?
They can last up to three days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Baked Chicken Tenders
Baked chicken tenders are the ultimate comfort food, combining a crispy, golden-brown exterior with juicy, tender meat that melts in your mouth. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, these easy-to-make tenders impress everyone at the table. With each bite bursting with flavor from a delicious seasoning mix, they pair wonderfully with your favorite dips and sides. Get ready to make these crowd-pleasers that will have everyone asking for the recipe!
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or spray it with nonstick spray.
- In one bowl, mix panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Drizzle olive oil over chicken breasts in another bowl, then coat them generously in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Arrange coated chicken on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tender (70g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 19g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
