Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders

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Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders – The Perfect Family Dinner

These Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders are the ultimate homemade version of everyone’s favorite comfort food! Juicy on the inside, golden and crunchy on the outside, and seasoned to perfection — these tenders are baked, not fried, making them a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Whether you’re cooking for kids, hosting a casual dinner, or craving something quick and satisfying, these tenders will be your new go-to. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauces or a side of fries for the perfect meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Crispy and golden: The combination of panko breadcrumbs and Parmesan creates a perfectly crunchy coating.
  • Healthier than fried: No deep frying here — just a light spray of oil and a quick bake for the same crisp texture.
  • Kid-friendly: These chicken tenders are a guaranteed hit at the dinner table.
  • Easy to customize: Adjust the seasoning, spice level, or coating to suit your taste.
  • Perfect for meal prep: Make ahead and reheat for a quick, protein-packed snack or meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Marinade:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken tenders (or chicken breasts cut into strips)
  • 1 ¼ cups buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, for a mild kick)

Dredge Station A – Seasoned Flour:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch (for extra crispiness)
  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper

Dredge Station B – Wet Dip:

  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup buttermilk

Dredge Station C – Breadcrumb Layer:

  • 1 ½ cups panko breadcrumbs (or regular breadcrumbs)
  • ½ cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

To Finish:

  • Olive oil or melted butter, for brushing or spraying

How to Make Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken tenders in a bowl or zip-top bag. Add buttermilk, salt, pepper, and hot sauce (if using). Mix to coat, then cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or up to overnight. This step makes the chicken extra juicy and tender.

Step 2: Prepare the Dredging Stations

Set up three shallow bowls or trays:

  1. In the first, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, and seasonings.
  2. In the second, whisk together the eggs and buttermilk.
  3. In the third, combine panko breadcrumbs, Parmesan, paprika, and garlic powder.

Step 3: Coat the Chicken

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place a wire rack on top. Lightly grease the rack with oil or nonstick spray.

Working one piece at a time:

  1. Dredge the chicken in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
  2. Dip into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off.
  3. Press into the breadcrumb mixture, coating evenly on all sides.

For best results, place the coated tenders on a tray and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes to help the coating stick.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Arrange the tenders in a single layer on the prepared wire rack. Lightly spray or brush with olive oil or melted butter.

Bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).

For extra crunch, broil the tenders for 1–2 minutes at the end.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Let the tenders rest for 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces and sides.

Dipping Sauce Ideas

Pair your crispy chicken tenders with any of these delicious sauces:

  • Honey mustard or barbecue sauce
  • Garlic aioli or ranch dressing
  • Spicy buffalo or chipotle mayo
  • Sweet chili or homemade ketchup

What to Serve with Chicken Tenders

These tenders go well with both classic sides and fresh salads. Try them with:

  • Crispy baked potato or sweet potato fries
  • Creamy macaroni and cheese
  • Garden or Caesar salad
  • Coleslaw or pasta salad
  • Rice pilaf or roasted vegetables

Helpful Tips

  • Use a wire rack: This ensures hot air circulates evenly, making the tenders crispy on all sides.
  • Marinate longer: Overnight marination makes the chicken extra tender and flavorful.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan: Leave space between tenders for even browning.
  • Reheat properly: Reheat leftovers in the oven or air fryer to keep them crispy.

Air Fryer Method

For an even quicker option, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze cooked tenders on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Reheat in the oven or air fryer at 375°F until crisp and heated through.

Final Thoughts

These Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Tenders are a perfect mix of crunch and tenderness, with a flavorful coating that rivals any restaurant version — and they’re made right in your own kitchen. Perfect for weeknights, parties, or meal prep, this is a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.

 

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