Name: Oven-Baked Crunchy Chicken Tenders for a Guilt-Free Treat
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 67 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Tenderloins (Boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute.); 1.5-3 teaspoons Salt (Amount can vary; recommended between.); 1 teaspoon Onion Powder; 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper; 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs (Toasting enhances crispness.); 1/2 cup Plain Flour (All-Purpose) (Gluten-free flour may be used as a substitute.); 2 large Eggs (Can substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.); 1/4 cup Water (Adjust for desired batter thickness.); 1 tablespoon Oil (Can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or melted butter.)

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In the heart of my kitchen, a delicious aroma escapes as the oven hums–it’s my new secret weapon: Oven-Baked Crunchy Chicken Tenders! Who would have thought you could achieve that perfect golden crunch without a drop of oil? These tenders transform a simple weeknight dinner into an irresistible delight, ideal for both families and gatherings. With minimal prep time and no frying involved, you’re left with crispy chicken that’s juicy on the inside. It’s comfort food with a healthier twist, making your mealtime a guilt-free triumph. So, are you ready to impress your loved ones with a homemade classic that’s fun and easy to whip up? Let’s dive into this tasty adventure!

Why are these Chicken Tenders a Must-Try?

Crispy Perfection: The oven-baked method ensures a delightful crunch without the guilt of frying.

Quick Preparation: Prepping these tenders is a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Versatile Delight: Pair with your favorite dips or serve with sides like mashed potatoes and salad for a complete meal.

Healthier Choice: Enjoy all the flavor without the extra calories, making them a satisfying option for everyone around the table.

Plus, if you’re looking for other mouthwatering chicken recipes, try out the Hot Honey Chicken or the comforting Chicken Dumplings Cozy for more inspiration!

Crunchy Chicken Tenders Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Tenderloins – The main protein providing a tender and juicy base for the recipe. Note: Boneless skinless chicken breasts can be used as a substitute by cutting them into strips.
For the Flavor
• Salt – Enhances flavor and helps with moisture retention through brining. Note: Amount can vary; recommended between 1½ – 3 teaspoons.
• Onion Powder – Adds depth of flavor to the chicken coating.
• Garlic Powder – Complements the chicken with aromatic notes.
• Ground Black Pepper – Offers slight spiciness and enhances overall flavor.
For the Crunchy Coating
• Panko Breadcrumbs – Creates a crunchy texture due to their larger size compared to regular breadcrumbs. Note: Toasting the breadcrumbs enhances their crispness and color.
• Plain Flour (All-Purpose) – Helps thicken the batter that coats the chicken. Note: Gluten-free flour may be used as a substitute.
For Binding
• Eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds richness to the coating. Note: Can substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.
• Water – Made to create a batter consistency, enhancing adherence of the breadcrumbs. Optional: You may adjust the amount based on desired batter thickness.
For Browning
• Oil – Aids in browning the breadcrumbs for a richer flavor and crunch. Note: Can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or melted butter.

These Crunchy Chicken Tenders are sure to become a family favorite!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crunchy Chicken Tenders

Step 1: Brine the Chicken (Optional)
To infuse your chicken tenderloins with flavor and moisture, mix salt with the tenders and refrigerate for 30-40 minutes. This step is perfect for enhancing texture and taste. After brining, rinse the chicken under cold water to remove excess salt and pat dry with paper towels, ensuring a better coating for your Crunchy Chicken Tenders.

Step 2: Toast the Breadcrumbs
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). In a baking dish, toss the panko breadcrumbs with a drizzle of oil. Spread them evenly and bake for 8-10 minutes, stirring halfway through to achieve a uniform golden brown. This little step guarantees that your Crunchy Chicken Tenders will have an irresistible crunch!

Step 3: Prepare the Batter
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, water, plain flour, and your choice of onion powder, garlic powder, and black pepper until smooth. If you opted for brining, be mindful not to add extra salt to this mixture. This thick batter will help the crunchy coating adhere perfectly to the chicken.

Step 4: Coat the Chicken
Now, it’s time to dredge! Take each chicken tenderloin and dip it into the prepared batter, letting any excess drip off. Next, coat it thoroughly in the toasted panko breadcrumbs, ensuring every inch is covered for that perfect crunchy texture. This step is vital for achieving those deliciously crispy Crunchy Chicken Tenders.

Step 5: Bake the Tenders
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place the coated chicken tenders in a single layer, ensuring they don’t touch. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Watch for a golden exterior and be ready to rejoice in the aroma of your Crunchy Chicken Tenders!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
With your Crunchy Chicken Tenders baked to crispy perfection, take them out, and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Serve them hot with your favorite dipping sauces like sweet chili or ranch for an irresistible meal that everyone will love. Perfect for family gatherings or late-night snacks!

Crunchy Chicken Tenders Variations

Feel free to customize your crunchy chicken tenders for an exciting twist that suits your taste!

Herb-Infused: Add fresh or dried herbs like thyme or parsley to the breadcrumb mixture for a fragrant flavor boost. The herbs will bring a delightful freshness that elevates the overall taste of your tenders.
Spicy Kick: Mix cayenne pepper or hot sauce into the batter for a zesty touch. This addition will not only spice things up but also create a tantalizing contrast with the crispy coating.
Cheesy Delight: Stir shredded Parmesan or cheddar cheese into the breadcrumbs for a cheesy, savory crunch. The cheese will melt during baking, adding richness to each bite.
Sweet Twist: For an unexpected flavor, sprinkle some brown sugar or a dash of cinnamon into the breadcrumbs. This sweet contrast will create an intriguing balance, especially if paired with a tangy dipping sauce.
Crunchy Veggie Coating: Combine crushed nuts or seeds like almonds or sunflower seeds with panko for added texture. These tiny surprises will give your tenders a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or a dash of liquid smoke in the batter for a deep, smoky taste. This twist brings a barbecue flair that’s perfect for summertime get-togethers.
Asian-Inspired: Add sesame seeds to the breadcrumb coating and serve with sweet chili sauce for an Asian twist. This simple change instantly transforms your chicken tenders into a gourmet treat.
Mediterranean Style: Mix in some oregano and lemon zest into your coating for a fresh Mediterranean vibe. Pair it with a side of tzatziki or a simple cucumber salad for a light and flavorful meal.

And if you’re in the mood for more easy chicken dishes, don’t miss out on my savory Poblano Chicken Tacos or comforting Pesto Chicken Broccoli for more delicious family favorites!

Storage Tips for Crunchy Chicken Tenders

Room Temperature: Enjoy your cooked crunchy chicken tenders immediately for the best flavor and texture; don’t leave them out for more than 2 hours to ensure safety.
Fridge: Store leftover chicken tenders in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore their crunchiness.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze uncooked crunchy chicken tenders on a lined baking sheet for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag, where they can last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, bake frozen tenders directly from the freezer for about 15-18 minutes at 200°C (400°F) until heated through and crispy again, ensuring you still enjoy that delightful crunch!

What to Serve with Oven-Baked Crunchy Chicken Tenders

The perfect meal is just around the corner, and these golden chicken tenders deserve company that elevates your dining experience!

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery and creamy texture complements the crunchy tenders beautifully, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.
Fresh Garden Salad: A light and vibrant salad adds a refreshing crunch, balancing the richness of the chicken tenders with its crisp vegetables.
Steamed Broccoli: This healthy side provides a fantastic contrast in color and texture, plus its subtle flavors enhance the tender’s savory notes.
Sweet Potato Fries: These slightly sweet fries create a delightful juxtaposition, showcasing the savory flavor of the chicken while adding a fun twist.
Honey-Mustard Dipping Sauce: A sweet and tangy sauce that pairs perfectly with chicken tenders, bringing an extra layer of flavor that tantalizes the taste buds.
Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread can round out your meal superbly, perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce.
Herbed Quinoa: This fluffy and nutty side dish is nutritious and delicious. It complements the tenders while adding a wholesome touch to your dinner.
Sparkling Lemonade: This refreshing, citrusy drink uplifts the meal, complementing the savory tenders with its zesty sweetness for a perfect pairing.

Make Ahead Options

These Crunchy Chicken Tenders are a fantastic choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can brine the chicken and coat them with breadcrumbs up to 24 hours in advance—just refrigerate the uncooked tenders until you’re ready to bake. To maintain that delightful crunch, store the breaded tenders in a single layer, separated by parchment paper if stacking. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and bake them for 10-12 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. This way, you’ll enjoy perfectly crispy, golden Crunchy Chicken Tenders with minimal effort, just as delicious as if you made them from scratch that day!

Expert Tips for Crunchy Chicken Tenders

Brining Balance: Don’t exceed 40 minutes when brining; too long can make the chicken overly salty, affecting your crunchy chicken tenders.
Breadcrumb Toasting: This step is non-negotiable! Toasting the panko breadcrumbs ensures maximum crunch, elevating the texture of your chicken tenders.
Batter Consistency: Adjust the water in your batter to get the right thickness; a too-thin batter won’t coat well, leading to a less crunchy chicken tenders outcome.
Even Cooking: Arrange the coated tenders on the baking sheet without overlapping to ensure they bake evenly and crisp up perfectly.
Dipping Sauce Pairing: Experiment with different sauces like honey mustard or barbecue for a flavorful twist that complements your crunchy chicken tenders!

Crunchy Chicken Tenders Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right chicken tenderloins?
Absolutely! When choosing chicken tenderloins, look for pieces that are pinkish and firm to the touch. Avoid any that have dark spots or an off smell, as these are signs of spoilage. The fresher, the better!

What’s the best way to store leftover chicken tenders?
To keep your leftover crunchy chicken tenders fresh, place them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can stay good for about 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them in the oven or air fryer to regain their delightful crunch!

Can I freeze crispy chicken tenders?
Yes, you can freeze uncooked crunchy chicken tenders! After coating them, lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once they are solid, transfer them to a freezer bag, and they’ll be good for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to cook, simply bake them directly from frozen at 200°C (400°F) for about 15-18 minutes until heated through.

What if my coating isn’t crispy enough?
If your crunchy chicken tenders lack that crispy texture, it could be due to insufficient toasting of the breadcrumbs or a batter that’s too thin. Make sure you toast those panko breadcrumbs until they’re a beautiful golden brown and adjust the water in your batter for the correct thickness. Dredging the tenders thoroughly in the batter and breadcrumbs will also help create that perfectly crisp coating!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies, make sure to note that this recipe contains eggs and flour. You can substitute the eggs with a flax egg for a vegan alternative. Additionally, gluten-free flour can be used instead of all-purpose flour to accommodate gluten sensitivities. Always ensure that your chicken is sourced from a trusted supplier for the best quality!