Go Back
Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders are displayed as a delicious and easy weeknight meal.

Crispy Baked Chicken Tenders

Achieve perfectly crispy baked chicken tenders without deep frying. This recipe focuses on moisture control, maximizing the Maillard reaction, and strategic fat utilization for a golden-brown and satisfyingly crunchy result.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 22 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 lbs Chicken Tenderloins, trimmed
  • 1 cup All-Purpose Flour
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika
  • 2 large Eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/4 cup Olive Oil
  • Cooking spray

Equipment

  • baking sheet
  • paper towels
  • 3 shallow dishes
  • Measuring cups
  • Measuring spoons
  • Oven
  • Tongs or spatula

Method
 

  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray.
  2. Pat the chicken tenderloins completely dry with paper towels.
  3. In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
  4. In a second shallow dish, beat the eggs.
  5. In a third shallow dish, combine the panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Dredge each chicken tenderloin in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  7. Dip the floured chicken in the egg wash, allowing the excess to drip off.
  8. Coat the chicken thoroughly with the panko mixture, pressing gently to ensure the breadcrumbs adhere.
  9. Place the breaded chicken tenderloins on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching.
  10. Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the chicken tenderloins.
  11. Bake for 18-22 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the breading is golden brown and crispy. Flip the tenders halfway through baking.
  12. Let the chicken tenders rest for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

For maximum crispiness, ensure the chicken is completely dry before breading. Panko breadcrumbs are essential for achieving the desired crunch. Serve with your favorite dipping sauces like honey mustard, BBQ sauce, or ranch dressing. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.