There’s something so comforting about a plate of crispy baked chicken tenders, isn’t there? I absolutely adore making these at home, as they remind me of childhood meals shared with family. We would often enjoy a family movie night with homemade chicken tenders, a mountain of crispy fries, and a few dipping sauces lined up like the soldiers ready for battle. To me, nothing beats that scrumptious crunch that hugs the tender chicken and pairs perfectly with a tangy dip!
What I love most about these tenders is their versatility. They can be served as a main dish, a snack for game day, or even turned into a scrumptious salad topping. Plus, I appreciate knowing exactly what goes into my food, and making these from scratch not only brings me joy but is also healthier compared to the fried versions! So, if you’re ready to elevate your weeknight meals or impress some friends, let’s dive into the delicious world of crispy baked chicken tenders!
What’s in Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Let me walk you through the ingredients that make these tenders not just crispy but absolutely delightful!
Chicken Breast: The star of the show! I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and mild flavor. You can also use tenders if you like, just make sure they’re properly trimmed.
Breadcrumbs: A crucial element for that crispy coating! I like to use Panko breadcrumbs for an extra crunch, but regular breadcrumbs work just as well if that’s what you have on hand.
Parmesan Cheese: This adds an incredible depth of flavor and a little extra crispiness. Freshly grated cheese is always a win, but pre-grated will do in a pinch.
All-Purpose Flour: This helps the egg mixture adhere to the chicken, creating a lovely, crunchy crust. You can even use almond flour for a gluten-free option!
Eggs: The binding agent that keeps everything together. I recommend using large eggs for the best results.
Spices and Seasonings: I usually use garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add your favorites, like Italian seasoning or a dash of cayenne for a bit of heat!
Is Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders Good for You?
Absolutely! While a fried chicken tender is undeniably delicious, the baked version brings lots of benefits.
Chicken Breast: This lean protein source is loaded with nutrients and promotes muscle growth, making it a great option for anyone looking to up their protein intake.
Parmesan Cheese: It not only adds flavor but is also a source of calcium and healthy fats. Just be mindful of portion sizes since cheese can be calorie-dense.
Using Panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs often makes them lighter and crispier while reducing unnecessary fats. The use of spices enhances flavor without adding calories, meaning you can indulge without the guilt.
Just keep in mind to pair these tenders with wholesome sides, like a fresh salad or veggies, to keep your meal balanced!
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 4 people. Here’s what you’ll need:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (or almond flour)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
How to Make Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders?
Let’s get cooking! Here’s how to make these crispy delights:
1. **Preheat your oven** to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
2. **Prepare three shallow dishes**: In the first dish, place the flour. In the second dish, whisk together the eggs. In the last dish, mix the Panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. **Slice the chicken breasts** into strips, about 1-inch wide. This is where you can get creative – make them as thick or thin as you like!
4. **Dredge each chicken strip**: First, coat it in the flour, shaking off any excess. Next, dip it in the egg, and finally, roll it in the breadcrumb mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
5. **Lay the chicken tenders** on the prepared baking sheet. Space them out, so they don’t touch (this helps them get crispy!).
6. **Bake in the preheated oven** for 15-20 minutes, or until the tenders are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). If you want them extra crispy, feel free to broil for the last 2-3 minutes!
7. **Remove from the oven** and let them cool for just a minute. Then dig in with your favorite dipping sauce!
Let’s Add Some Flare!
You know I love to experiment! Here are a few extra tips and variations to jazz up your tenders:
– **Spicy Twist:** Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture if you’re feeling adventurous.
– **Baked BBQ Chicken:** Brush the chicken strips with your favorite BBQ sauce before coating them in breadcrumbs for a sweeter flavor.
– **Use Different Proteins:** You can use this recipe with shrimp or tofu for a fun twist!
These crispy baked chicken tenders are such a hit, especially with kids (and adults, let’s be honest). The best part? They make amazing leftovers! So, make a big batch and savor the crunch throughout the week.
I can’t wait for you to try these out! Share your experiences and any variations you come up with. Happy cooking!